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The Office of Community Outreach and Engagement (COE) at Mayo Clinic Comprehensive Cancer Center is making a lasting difference in Arizona, Florida, and the Midwest. Check out highlights from some of our latest efforts.
Wellness Rx: Better health for every community
Body & Soul, a healthy living and eating program, continues to make healthier lifestyles accessible to all communities. In Arizona, the program has not only expanded to Spanish-speaking communities with Vida Saludable, most recently, we completed, Body & Spirit, the first adaption of the program for American Indians.
American Indians have higher prevalence of some cancer risk factors like obesity. Through Body & Spirit, community members learn how to lower their risk for chronic illnesses like cancer through improved nutrition and increased physical activity. Each adaptation of Body & Soul honors the traditions and languages of different cultures while remaining open to all and supporting the shared goal of better health. The result: strong engagement, positive feedback, and a model for how evidence-based interventions can resonate across cultures.
This commitment to meeting communities where they are is echoed in Florida, where we’re restructuring the Wellness Rx food pantry program to better reflect local needs. Engaging directly with residents through surveys at events like the Juneteenth celebration in Putnam County, we learned that access to free health screenings and practical family health education are top priorities. These reassessment efforts ensure that Wellness Rx remains a responsive resource.
Building cancer advocates: Training, education, and community power
Across Mayo Clinic, our impact is amplified through the Community Outreach and Engagement Cancer Advocacy Training Program for Communities. Since May, 41 new Cancer Advocates and 52 aspiring Community Health Workers have joined the movement in Florida alone. In Arizona, 41 new Cancer Advocates have been trained since the beginning of the year. These dedicated individuals are equipped with the skills and knowledge to raise awareness about differences in cancer outcomes, provide education, and connect neighbors with life-saving resources. Their presence strengthens trust and expands the reach of Mayo Clinic’s mission, multiplying the effects of every outreach and engagement effort.
Screen and Genes: Closing gaps with preventive health
Through Screen and Genes we help community members understand a vital component in the fight against
cancer: early detection. In Florida, collaborations with local organizations led to a men’s health fair at American Legion Post #197, where attendees accessed PSA (prostate-specific antigen) screenings, blood pressure and glucose checks, memory screenings, and more. Over 30 people attended, with 16 men receiving PSA screenings and more than 20 benefitting from additional health services. Such events blend clinical expertise with community partnership, breaking down barriers to care and empowering participants with knowledge and support.
A special thank you to our vendors: Agape Family Health (PSA screening),FAMU College of Pharmacy (glucose and blood pressure screening), Mayo Clinic Alzheimer's Disease Research Center (memory screening and education), Serotonin (weight and Body Mass Index screenings and wellness education), Volunteers in Medicine (information on services), Prostate Health Education Network (information and education) , and Chef Ce-tia (catering).
In the Midwest, we shared information about cancer prevention and self-screening with over 200 visitors at the Homerun for Health Fair on the Prairie Island Indian Community reservation. In collaboration with Mayo Clinic Health System (MCHS) Wisconsin Radiology, we provided screening services through the mobile mammography unit. In addition, the Breast Diagnostic Clinic in Rochester led hands-on demonstrations using 3D breast models. These efforts support critical strides in increasing early detection for people living in rural
communities.
Cancer Conversations: Education that resonates
In June, Cancer Conversations in Florida addressed uterine and prostate cancer, resulting in meaningful gains in health literacy—13% of prostate cancer session participants reported moderate knowledge of symptoms afterward, while 100% of uterine cancer attendees recognized the importance of regular screenings. In the Midwest, over 40 community members participated in a session on melanoma and skin cancer, featuring insights from experts and survivors alike. Dr. Collin M. Costello discussed advancements in early skin cancer detection, diagnosis, and prevention. Guest speakers Autumn Kappes and Kenneth Masungu shared their survival stories. These conversations break the silence around cancer, foster peer learning, and highlight the necessity of ongoing dialogue in every community.
Connect with us
We're thankful for the impact made possible through the power of partnerships. To learn more about our programs and explore opportunities to collaborate, contact us at MCCCCOE@mayo.edu.
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