Health and Wellness

• A Moment of Magic at UCLA We are the UCLA chapter of the A Moment of Magic Foundation, a charity organization dedicated to promoting wellness in children through character interaction and play. Following an auditions process and costuming, our character members visit underserved children in clinical and recreational settings to model bravery, strength, and fearlessness. All are welcome to serve the Los Angeles area and beyond, as we offer many volunteering opportunities for those interested in becoming a character, hosting fun activities, or simply working behind the scenes to conduct volunteer visits and events. To learn more about applying and/or auditioning to become a character volunteer, please visit our chapter Instagram @amomentofmagicucla. To learn more about the organization, please visit the A Moment of Magic Foundation website.
• Academy Health Student Chapter at UCLA In partnership with the health services research community, we strive to: Provide peer support by: - Creating opportunities for interaction among peers - Reaching out and connecting with other departments and academic groups sharing common interests and goals - Offering peer mentorship Promote academic and professional development by: - Exposing members to the field of Health Services - Helping students disseminate their research - Increasing interaction and facilitating dialogue with health services researchers - Advocating for training, mentorship and post-graduate placement Advance the field of Health Services by: - Encouraging interdisciplinary collaboration - Incorporating new research tools - Advocating innovative areas of contribution from student researchers
• Active Minds Active Minds is a mental health advocacy group dedicated to changing the conversation about mental health and de-stigmatizing mental illness throughout the UCLA campus and the greater Los Angeles community.
• Al-Anon To help families and friends of alcoholics.
• American Lung Association Collegiate Council at UCLA The American Lung Association at UCLA was created to form a partnership between UCLA and the American Lung Association in order to raise awareness of lung health and promote tobacco-free lifestyles. We lead and participate in events such as the annual Fight for Air Climb. Our officers include two Co-Presidents, a Vice President, a Treasury Secretary, and a PR Secretary. The officers meet with our club members twice a month in order to inform them of upcoming events, socials, volunteering, or shadowing opportunities.
• American Lung Cancer Screening Initiative The American Lung Cancer Screening Initiative (ALCSI) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to increasing awareness and promoting lung cancer screening for high-risk individuals. At UCLA, college students collaborate with world-renowned thoracic surgeons, Congress, residents, community leaders, survivors, and caregivers to reshape the trajectory of those affected by lung cancer in Southern California. With California ranking among the lowest states for lung cancer screening, our mission is to connect high-risk community members to local screening centers, driving progress towards achieving the success seen in regions like Boston. Throughout the academic year, we will host tabling events, canvass in the greater Los Angeles area, present at community centers, and hold Q&A panels with clinicians in underserved neighborhoods. We will also build community through social events, ensuring connection while working together to propel change.
• Amplified at UCLA Amplified at UCLA was founded to cultivate a tight knit circle that explores our greatest curiosities and interests in a thoughtful, inspiring, and creative setting. We encourage both open dialogue and reflection whether this be in the form of a philosophical debate, poetry, songwriting, roundtable, creative writing, visual art, music, dance, and more! The possibilities are endless. In this space, all voices are heard and amplified as we seek to bring together deep thinkers, vibrant communicators, creatives, performers, and eloquent speakers. Our events include hangouts at the Hitchen, outings in Westwood, recreational retreats, and much more over the weekend! Whether you are a seasoned philosopher, a curious thinker, or simply someone who enjoys a casual chat over a cup of coffee or tea, you will find a strong sense of community with us. We invite undergraduates of any major or interest to join us!
• Anderson Athletics The mission of Anderson Athletics is to enrich the sports experience for UCLA Anderson MBA students by providing leadership and direction to all student run sporting activities on campus. Anderson Athletics represents and promotes the sporting interests of all students at UCLA Anderson. It serves as a center for student information, communication, financial resources and supervision for student sports interests. It acts as a liaison between the individual sports clubs and the Anderson Student Association. Any student registered within a sports organization at UCLA Anderson is a member of Anderson Athletics.
• APA Health C.A.R.E. APA Health CARE (Asian Pacific American Health Collaboration, Access, Resource & Education) is a collaborative effort among UCLA undergraduates, public health students, medical students, nurses, and physicians that aims to improve the health and well-being of underserved Asians and Pacific Islanders in the Metropolitan Los Angeles area.
• Art MEDified at UCLA Art MEDified at UCLA is the flagship chapter of Art MEDified, Inc., a (501)(c)(3) organization based in Southern California. By joining the family, volunteers will join a bustling community with retreats, socials, mentorship, and more! Through this tight community, volunteers advance the integration of health literacy into everyday life through artistic projects. Students lead community art events, host health literacy seminars, and earn awards, including the President’s Volunteer Service Award. Volunteers also plan a research camp and can help run it in the summer. Through these experiences, trainings during club meetings, and other team building activities, members learn about leadership and professional development. Art MEDified benefits those from a wide range of backgrounds: 1. Those looking for a fun, social environment to build connections/friendship and network | 2. Those looking to create art, learn about marketing, and/or explore graphic design | 3. Those looking to advance themselves on the pre-med/pre-health path | 4. Those looking to exercise public speaking skills and construct educational materials | 5. Those looking to learn how to budget and create shopping lists for big events | 6. Those looking to practice journalism, creative writing, and professional writing through a blog | And more! | Go Art MEDified, Choose-Your-Team, and take advantage of what most benefits you!
• Beautiful Mind Project The Beautiful Mind Project aims to construct a well-rounded understanding of mental health in the Muslim community that transcends socio-cultural, political, and physical barriers of stigmatization by utilizing Islamic principles as a source of mental wellness. By providing diverse, accessible resources, the Beautiful Mind Project advocates for its members a lifestyle that emphasizes the delicate balance between mental, spiritual, and physical health. The Beautiful Mind Project hopes to achieve this vision by… - Creating a safe space/dialogue for mental, physical and spiritual health wellness - Providing access to mental health resources and professionals for Muslim students on campus - Advocating to change policies that hinder the prioritization of mental health, and push to create policies that encourage mental health growth. - Cultivating and grow Muslim leadership in the field of mental health and wellness - Expanding beyond UCLA campus to the broader community and other campus communities
• Bhagat Puran Singh Health Initiative Bhagat Puran Singh Health Initiative is a group of wellness advocates devoted to eliminating health and social disparities within underserved and underprivileged populations by creating spaces of community engagement and providing access to health education for the betterment of the mind, body, and spirit.
• Black Fitness Society A community for Black Bruins on their health and wellness journey.
• Black/Latinx AIDS Project (BLAIDS) The Black/Latinx AIDS Project (BLAIDS) at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) is a community service project created by the organization Latinx/Chicanxs for Community Medicine (LCCM) in 1991 as a response to the increasing HIV/AIDS diagnosis within the Black and Latino community in Los Angeles area. BLAIDS was initiated by a group of students who saw the urge to help educate youths about HIV/AIDS, STDs/STIs, and teen pregnancy as well as advocate and stop the stigma surrounding these concurrent issues.
• Body Empowerment Project As part of national Body Empowerment Project, our club aims to reduce eating disorder risk and empower adolescents/young adults to find body acceptance and self-worth by delivering a research-validated body-positive and social justice-oriented curriculum through an innovative near-peer mentorship panel.
• Brallium@UCLA In response to the discomfort and health concerns associated with traditional undergarments, consumers have increasingly sought alternatives that provide both comfort and functionality. While nipple covers have emerged as a viable solution, the current market offerings often lack diversity and fail to address individual needs effectively. Recognizing this gap, Brallium is committed to advance our current prototype of sustainable nipple covers and manufacture on a larger scale for UCLA students and beyond.
• Bruin Beans Health Club Bruin Beans Health Club (BBHC) is composed of undergraduates and recent alumni working with nephrologists at UCLA's David Geffen School of Medicine and UCLA CORE Kidney to improve healthcare delivery to patients with kidney disease by implementing CORE values of Clinical Excellence, Outreach, Research, and Education. We work with a multidisciplinary team of healthcare professionals in order to communicate and bridge the gap of misinformation surrounding kidney health and increase societal awareness, community knowledge, and the medical body of literature on kidney disease and disease prevention through clinical research. Although born with the goal of increasing kidney awareness, BBHC hopes to improve awareness and prevention of a multitude of diseases.
• Bruin Bodybuilding Bruin Bodybuilding is an organization dedicated to creating a community for those interested in weightlifting and bodybuilding. We intend to create education resources in regards to technique, training, programming, posing, and nutrition to help lifters of all levels and experiences advance in their fitness journey.
• Bruin Burlesque Bruin Burlesque is a supportive community centered around the sensual art of burlesque! This confidence building heels optional class will provide a judgement free zone for dancers to learn weekly choreographies and improvize moves to popular songs, while still receiving constructive criticism on technique. A typical class will also include across-the-floor exercises, warm-ups and stretching to provide the class conditioning practiced in traditional studios. Classes are open to all levels, heels optional, and are LGBTQ inclusive. Come feel empowered with Bruin Burlesque!
• Bruin Guidance Bruin Guidance is dedicated to offering comprehensive, high-quality mentorship and resources, specifically designed to demystify the pre-medical journey and streamline the college application process. Our core mission is to bridge the gap in access to vital educational insights, ensuring that all students—both within our program and those we serve—are empowered to make informed decisions about their academic and professional futures. By fostering a deeper understanding of higher education pathways, particularly in the pre-medical field, we aim to cultivate a more equitable landscape where every aspiring student has the tools and knowledge to succeed. We also seek to provide young children guidance about prevention of common injuries and diseases. We seek to serve our community by providing this knowledge to children in under-served areas and help them develop healthy habits.
• Bruin Institute of Health Policy Bruin Institute of Health Policy aims to develop leaders in the field of health care with a focus on creating social change through policy writing. We strive to educate students on health policy, advocate for policy changes that benefit underserved communities, and work with other organizations to improve their services through conducting research. We are partnered with the International Collegiate Health Initiative in their mission to create social change in Los Angeles and underserved communities throughout the world.
• Bruin Neurodiversity Collective The Bruin Neurodiversity Collective works directly alongside the Neurodiversity Empowerment Team at UCLA to promote the advancement, understanding, and community development of UCLA’s neurodivergent population. It facilitates student involvement and social community building within UCLA’s neurodivergent community, and to promote service activities within said community. It also acts as a medium for the members' social, cultural and political objectives within the context of neurodiversity.
• Bruin Vision Project Bruin Vision Project takes precedence in the UCLA community as the first and only student health organization to provide vision screenings and resources to underserved populations across various communities in the Los Angeles area. Our mission is to advocate for and ensure that each individual in our community has the opportunity to maintain their eye health. We do so by stressing the importance of receiving comprehensive eye exams, specifically referring our service recipients to government-funded programs and low-cost ocular health clinics for which they are eligible.
• Bruin WELL Bruin WELL is a UCLA student organization with the mission of promoting wellness on campus and across elementary schools in Los Angeles. We accomplish this through four main objectives: 1. TEACH YOGA AND MINDFULNESS at elementary schools through after-school programs 2. FLOW TOGETHER weekly at UCLA 3. DEVELOP A WELLNESS JOURNAL for our students with yoga and mindfulness prompts/activities 4. PARTNER WITH WELLNESS BRANDS to work as a community collective
• Bruins Fighting Pediatric Cancer Bruins Fighting Pediatric Cancer (BFPC) is dedicated to fulfilling the mission of never letting cancer cloud the joy of being a kid. With this mission, we strive to educate the UCLA community about pediatric cancer and to fundraise for pediatric cancer research non-profits such as Alex's Lemonade Stand Foundation. We volunteer/participate in programs and events such as Ronald McDonald House trips, the inpatient child life zone at UCLA Mattel Children's Hospital, and L.A. Loves Alex's Lemonade Stand. BFPC members also play an integral part of planning Cranes for Cancer and Education fair--our signature awareness and fundraising events during winter and spring quarters, aimed to highlight pediatric cancer heroes by celebrating researchers and childhood cancer survivors.
• Bruins for Recovery Bruins for Recovery (B4R) is a registered student organization at UCLA dedicated to supporting students recovering from addictive behaviors, as well as their allies, family, and friends.? They offer recovery meetings, events, and a sense of community for Bruins who are in long-term or short-term recovery from substances/behaviors or who have chosen not to drink, for any reason. Our members include students who: Are in long-term recovery from alcohol, drugs, or behavioral addictions Choose not to drink or use drugs, for any reason (e.g., personal preference, religious reasons, etc.) Drink but want to support a healthy campus environment Have friends or family members who struggle with or are in long-term recovery from alcohol or drug addictions Use alcohol or drugs but might want to stop Use harm reduction with an outside medical provider or therapist Just want to make a difference on campus and show their support We also work in effort with the UCLA Collegiate Recovery Program (CRP). ? If you have any questions about the about the Collegiate Recovery Program, please contact recovery@saonet.ucla.edu or call us at 310.825.7904
• Bruins for the Institute on Aging We are an undergraduate student organization at the University of California, Los Angeles that serves as a volunteer recruitment club for the Institute on Aging’s Friendship Line and educates about health and social issues experienced by elderly individuals. Institute on Aging aims “to enhance the quality of life for aging adults and adults living with disabilities, enabling them to maintain their health, well-being, independence and participation in the community.” As a club, we will connect volunteers to the Friendship Line, and spread awareness about common diseases that disproportionately impact the elderly. Our primary goal is to provide pre-med, pre-health, and any other students interested in learning more about age-related health issues with the opportunity to bridge the intergenerational gap through compassionate conversations about the quality of life of older adults.
• Bruins Public Health Club Bruins Public Health Club engages in projects that promote the maintenance and improvement of health for all members of society. It is the organization's objective to provide members with real-world experiences regarding public health studies so that they may use the knowledge, skills, and leadership gained to make a valuable impact in their communities. We expose members to the wide breadth of the public health field through guest speakers. Additionally, we network with UCLA students to discuss current public health issues. Outside of the UCLA community, we outreach to increase public health awareness and educate the LA community.
• Building Heroes Project at UCLA Building Heroes aims to educate the underserved community about medical emergencies. Club members will learn to lead participants through hands on skill training designed to give them the means to help control medical emergencies before EMS arrives. Club members will also help participants understand when something is a medical emergency and when they should seek help. Each site we visit will also be provided with a list of contacts for medical and psychological help within their immediate area. Besides the hands on style skills training, we will also offer free Red Cross Adult and Pediatric First Aid/CPR/AED certification to any participants seeking official certification. In addition to community outreach, this club also aims to collect data from the underserved community and participate in a longitudinal research study. Club members will create surveys and collect data before and after visiting sites. The study will focus on participants experience with medical emergencies, their level of preparedness, and their willingness to help. Lastly, we want to work on creating first aid kits tailored to the homeless and underserved communities. These will be handed out to all participants who complete our program. Through Building Heroes, club members will gain a deeper understanding of first aid techniques, and learn how to lead hands on discussions and lectures. In addition, they will gain important field research experience. Perhaps most rewarding, club members will be given the chance to make a difference in the underserved community by sharing life saving knowledge.
• Ceramics Club The mission of the Ceramics Club at UCLA is to provide an inclusive and accessible platform for individuals of all skill levels to connect, collaborate, and explore the art of ceramics. We seek to inspire artistic expression, personal growth, and community building through the shared experience of working with clay.
• CHARM @ UCLA (Carceral Health Advocacy and Reform Movement at UCLA) CHARM @ UCLA, aims to alleviate disparities in health education amongst incarcerated, re-entering, and at risk populations. CHARM focuses on improving health outcomes for those impacted by the justice system through health education and policy advocacy.
• Community Outreach for Health Literacy at UCLA Mission Statement: Community Outreach for Health Literacy (COHL) is a pre-health club that provides a platform for undergraduate students to research topics relating to their career goals and to directly work on educating the local communities. Our mission is to educate the public about the significance of preventative healthcare topics that are applicable to our everyday life. Goals: Our goal is to create a year-long research project with a group, from gathering background information to collecting data, based on a health issue or demographic of your choice, and to ultimately improve health literacy in our communities by presenting your findings at the end of the year.
• Companion Care Companion Care (CC)'s mission is to build sustainable bridges between people experiencing homelessness and healthcare services in Los Angeles. To achieve this end, CC partners with the Mobile Clinic Project at UCLA (MCP) to offer clients accompanied and/or unaccompanied primary care appointments to Wesley Health Center. CC’s client base is composed of individuals who are ready to seek primary care services, but who face structural and interpersonal barriers to care such as medical mistrust, language barriers, and chronic conditions that cannot be addressed in an acute healthcare setting. Through the practice of accompaniment, a practice that prioritizes the client’s voice and lived-experience in their healthcare journey, companions serve as partners for clients re-entering the traditional healthcare setting. When a client chooses an accompanied appointment, they attend with a companion whose role is to facilitate a sense of felt safety, comfort, and agency for the client. Practically, accompaniment entails filling out paperwork, communicating long-term goals, and arranging transportation, in addition to tackling any other barriers between clients and the services that they deserve. CC’s ultimate goal is to make healthcare an equitable resource through solidarity, humility, and partnership.
• Complete Cognitive Care Complete Cognitive Care is a student organization with the mission to provide mental health services to undeserved communities. The aim is to provide care with a cultural understanding, while erasing the stigma of seeking mental health care. The organization will be working with partnered non-profit organizations to reach individuals from these communities. We work to form a foundation for how the community treats mental health, from both a cultural perspective and clinical perspective.
• Critical Care Nursing Club To further the opportunities of undergraduate and graduate nursing students by connecting with professionals in the critical care field. We aim to educate our club members on resources and expose them to the different avenues of critical care nursing.
• CultivAsian CultivAsian is a student organization with the mission to destigmatize conversations about mental health and raise awareness of mental health issues in Asian young adults through multimedia and social media presence. We provide a safe space for students to give back to their communities by working on creative multimedia projects such as podcasts, videos, blog posts, and photography and publicizing them to the community.
• Dancing Social Workers (DSW) We are a group of graduate students seeking to provide a safe, collective, cultural, and expressive space through encouraging somatic modality and exploring social activism via dance.
• David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA Chapter of the American Medical Association Our chapter serves to educate peers on health policy, advocate for legislative changes that benefit the medical profession, and conduct service projects for the local community. We represent the DGSOM Chapter of AMA, but our views and opinions are independent of the AMA.
• DiverSWC DiverSWC’s mission seeks to integrate an identity-informed approach to health and wellness by providing resources and events that encourage all campus organizations to create more inclusive programming. The committee also focuses on creating events and presentations that focus on intersectionality and the unique experiences of marginalized students.
• Donation of Tissues and Organs (DotOrg) DoT Org at UCLA together with Latinx/Chicanx for Community Medicine (LCCM) began as a student initiated effort to educate and increase consciousness within UCLA students and members of the surrounding communities concerning the myths and facts of organ and tissue donation. We hope to dispel common misconceptions and thus increase the pool of registered donors within the Los Angeles area. Our goal is to raise consciousness of organ and tissue donation through on and off campus events, which include the annual Donate Life Run/Walk, Give Life, Give Thanks donor drive, etc. With the collective effort of our volunteers, we hope to reach the community through public health fairs, pre-health conferences, LAUSD high school site visits, and other community-based sites in Los Angeles County.
• End Overdose at UCLA End Overdose at UCLA is a chapter of the Los Angeles-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit End Overdose. Our mission is to make education and resources (i.e. fentanyl test strips and Narcan/naloxone) preventing overdose-related death readily available to the UCLA community and beyond. Further, our organization aims to raise public awareness of the ways in which drug-related overdoses can be prevented.
• Everyday Responder Project @ UCLA According to a study conducted in 2017, the average EMS response time is about 6 minutes. However, this number was roughly doubled in rural settings, with nearly 1 in 10 encounters resulting in a wait time of over half an hour. When applying these metrics to some of the leading causes of death in the emergency prehospital setting (cardiac arrest and traumatic bleeding), an issue becomes apparent – time. The brain begins to suffer damage after roughly 4 minutes without oxygen and progresses toward irreversible damage after about 7 minutes. There are about half a million deaths from cardiac arrest in the U.S. every year, but a study conducted in 2009 revealed that, out of 138 bystanders who called 911 for a cardiac-related emergency, about half of the cardiac arrests were not detected. Similar patterns can be observed in bleeding emergencies, with over one-third of mortality from all traumatic injuries being attributed to severe hemorrhage and roughly 50% of hemorrhage-related deaths occurring before reaching a hospital. With most medical emergencies benefitting from immediate intervention, an effective approach to improving patient outcomes involves placing everyday people at the forefront of the medical care team. Understanding how to effectively engage the emergency response system and provide basic first aid (i.e. bleed control and CPR) can drastically improve a patient’s likelihood of survival. Previous research has highlighted the efficacy of bystander training programs in improving patient outcomes and increasing bystander confidence in providing medical aid: “Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) by laypersons (so-called bystanders) improves the chances of survival by a factor of 2-4” - Current Opinion in Critical Care (2015). “The proportion of students showing willingness to perform BLS increased from 13% to 77% after [training] even when the collapsed person is a stranger” — Resuscitation (2016). With the aim of improving accessibility to bystander medical training, the Everyday Responder Project (ERP) was founded in December 2020 by two students at the University of Southern California. The current ERP team consists of a variety of healthcare, educational, and creative professionals who are passionate about developing and teaching medical content. With the help of ERP’s volunteers, the organization has begun to pilot its core curriculum and work on larger, longitudinal projects that will help improve medical literacy and emergency preparedness in the various communities across California and beyond.
• Excursion Club at UCLA Excursion Club at UCLA will bring UCLA students on outdoor adventures throughout California and the greater Western U.S. The club will engage in activities such as hiking, camping, backpacking, surfing, climbing, snowshoeing, and skiing. The club combines students' love for nature and passion for meeting people with similar interests. Field professionals will come speak to the club and teach members about wilderness safety and general outdoor expertise.
• Farmers Market at UCLA Farmers’ Market at UCLA is a student-run, non-profit market. It is dedicated to bringing fresh, local SoCal produce to the UCLA community. Besides the normal market operation, the student organizers and members pioneer educational projects, and enrich the market space with student-group tabling and performance events. Furthermore, this organization serves to introduce students accessible opportunities on hands-on experience with urban agriculture and local food/sustainability initiatives.
• Fellowship for International Service and Health (FISH) FISH is an interdisciplinary global health and development organization that aims to improve the health, wellness, and access to educational opportunities in Maclovio Rojas, Mexico. Students work closely with community leaders and health professionals to implement need-based and sustainable initiatives.
• Fitness Improvement Training Through Exercise and Diet Fitness Improvement Training Through Exercise & Diet [FITTED] will provide free physical fitness training and health education services to improve overall wellness for all underrepresented student leaders on the UCLA campus. Having a fitness component in the Community Programs Office (CPO), partnered with ASHE Student Health and Wellness Center, Recreation and Cultural Affairs, and Residential Life, will allow for an opportunity to enhance health, provide a resource to alleviate stress, and share information to initiate growth in the community.
• Flying Samaritans at UCLA Flying Samaritans at UCLA provides free health care, dental care, prescription medications, and health education to underserved populations in Tijuana, Mexico. Undergraduate students work alongside medical professionals to operate a monthly health clinic. Our organization also conducts public health research and uses our findings to continuously improve and expand our services. We are social justice-oriented and welcome all UCLA student volunteers.
• Gerontology Interest Group The purpose of the Gerontology Interest Group at UCLA is to educate individuals on topics of research interest in gerontology and geriatric medicine, provide opportunities for students to present their own research in this area, and introduce students to healthcare workers in the field of geriatric medicine. Through the annual Gerontology Interest Group Undergraduate Research Conference, students will have the opportunity to present their research related to gerontology, geriatrics, medicine, public health and public affairs at a conference to deepen their understanding and appreciation of these careers and of research.
• GlobeMed Founded in 2008, GlobeMed at UCLA advocates for global health equity through its partnership with the Mpoma Community HIV /AIDS Initiative, located in south-central Uganda. Together, we work to improve water access, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) in Mpoma while promoting accessible health/sexual education (Sanitary Pad Project). On campus, our seven committees drive sustainable change within global health through raising awareness about anti-oppressive global health practices and fundraising to support our partner’s projects.
• HART at UCLA HART at UCLA is dedicated to engaging the arts, in all forms, to alleviate stress and promote holistic healing. We strive to bolster the mental well-being of UCLA's student body, support patients with chronic illnesses, and foster a sense of individuality and community across all demographics. Through creative expression, we aim to enrich the concept of wellness.
• Health Hope Health Hope is a dedicated club focused on educating students at UCLA and throughout Los Angeles about a range of health issues, including kidney disease, diabetes, and more. Our mission is to raise awareness, promote healthy lifestyles, and provide valuable resources through informative workshops, seminars, and community outreach activities. By fostering a supportive environment, Health HOPE empowers students to take proactive steps in managing their health and well-being. This will empower low-income, medically-vulnerable populations and underserved populations with medical Knowledge. Our goal is to connect this club to many medical resources and have doctors as an advisors.
• Health Law Society The mission of the Health Law Society (HLS) is to raise the profile of health law issues at the school and to provide exposure to the field and opportunities for students interested in studying and pursuing careers in health law. Healthcare is a highly regulated industry, and with the new health reform bill, the law concerning healthcare is growing and changing. This means that health law is an exciting area of study as well as a great field for lawyers to enter into. Reflecting this trend, UCLA has been adding to its health law curriculum with courses offered by Professor Hoffman in Health Insurance Reform and Health Law and Policy. We would like to supplement this curriculum by bringing in experts to discuss various components of health law and enlighten students on relevant issues. We will also strive to enhance the employment prospects for students interested in health law by bringing potential employers to network with students. HLS will heighten the profile of UCLA as an attractive choice for prospective students in health law and will strengthen connections between the school and the legal community.
• Health Sciences Education Program at UCLA The Health Sciences Education Program's purpose is to educate students in the surrounding community on health science topics. We are a student-run organization that presents lessons in K-12 schools, aiding in the promotion and empowerment of one’s own health. The Health Sciences Education Program seeks to inspire discussions about health issues relevant to today.
• Healthy Dentist Initiative To raise awareness regarding mental and physical well-being of healthcare providers. Through guest lectures, hosting after hour activities, etc. the Healthy Doctors Initiative will be a resource for students seeking to learn more about ways to stay on top of self-care while managing the busy life of a dentist in training.
• Healthy Hands Initiative The mission of Healthy Hands is to provide basic sanitation resources to the underserved communities and school systems in northern India due to the preventable devastation these communities face as a result of a lack of medical and social sanitation. We seek to provide sustainable clean water solutions to underserved families and students—initially in the Bokaro district of northeast India—in order to reduce the rates of prevalent, preventable diseases and work towards promoting social welfare and healthcare in our targeted areas. We aim to limit the high rates of prevalent diseases by connecting students to the unique and abundant public health resources of The University of California Los Angeles and supporting student community outreach projects through this platform to become part of an achievable solution to promote social welfare and healthcare in our targeted areas.
• Her Campus at UCLA UCLA Chapter of Her Campus, a community that uplifts, informs and connects college women on topics such as pop culture, wellness, style, politics and health. Her Campus at UCLA ranks within the top 5% of all chapters nationally.
• HIV Counseling and Testing Coalition HIV Counseling and Testing Coalition (HCAT) is a student organization focused on providing resources such as HIV testing/counseling, safe sexual health recommendations, and linkage to healthcare services to underserved communities in LA. We are committed to de-stigmatizing HIV and sexual health by making accessible HIV test counseling that effectively communicates HIV prevention strategies with cultural humility and client centeredness available to at-risk populations.
• I AM CONFIDENT RESILIENCE PEER EMPOWERMENT* I AM Confident Resilience Peer Empowerment (CRPE). The heart and soul of confidence, resilience, and empowerment Our journey is not just about words on a page; it’s a profound commitment to transforming lives through the incredible power of self-belief, inner strength, and community support. At CRPE, our mission is clear: we are here to ignite the flame of confidence and resilience within every individual. We firmly believe these qualities are not attributes to be sought externally but are an inherent part of who we are. It’s our purpose to help you recognize, embrace, and nurture these qualities, for they are not just vital in the journey of personal growth; they are the essence of our very being. When you become a part of CRPE, you enter a world of solid support and boundless possibilities. We don’t just talk about confidence and empowerment; we live it. Our organization thrives on the power of community and unity, understanding that we become an unstoppable force when we come together with a common purpose. In our community, there’s no room for doubt or hesitation. We are catalysts for change, leaders in our own right, and beacons of empowerment lighting the way for one another. In our CRPE family, you will find a sanctuary where like-minded individuals share their journeys, dreams, aspirations, and moments of vulnerability. We understand that confidence and resilience are not merely personal attributes but the cornerstones of success and well-being. We don’t just give you the tools for growth; we hand you the keys to your potential. With knowledge, firm support, and a genuine commitment to your development, we pave the way for you to thrive, no matter what life throws. Your journey with us is about personal transformation, collective confidence, and resilience building. When you join us, you become part of a movement that refuses to be held back by challenges or setbacks. Together, we forge a path to a brighter, more confident, and resilient future. Within the CRPE community, you’ll quickly realize that you are not alone on this journey. You are part of an influential collective. The bonds you form here are not just for personal growth; they reinforce your strength. As you lean on us, you also become a source of support for others. This interconnected network of confidence, resilience, and empowerment makes CRPE unique, dynamic, and immensely powerful. We invite you to stand with us as we redefine the meaning of confidence, resilience, and empowerment. Here, it’s not just a possibility; it’s a promise. And we intend to keep that promise by working together, learning, growing, and ultimately achieving together. As we navigate the path of personal resilience, confidence, and empowerment, we celebrate the unique qualities and strengths that make each of us who we are. Confidence isn’t about becoming someone you’re not but fully embracing who you are. It’s about standing tall in your authenticity and believing in your abilities. Resilience is not about avoiding challenges; it’s about facing them head-on, learning from them, and growing stronger with each experience. The power of peer, confidence, resilience, and empowerment within CRPE extends beyond support; it’s about standing shoulder to shoulder with individuals who, like you, are committed to unlocking their full potential. It’s a safe space where you can share your struggles and victories, knowing that you are among those who understand and are here to cheer you on. Together, we take the lessons learned from our experiences and use them to build not only our resilience but the resilience of the community. We recognize that personal growth is not a solo endeavor; it’s a collective journey. By empowering one another, we multiply our impact. As we rise, we uplift others, creating a ripple effect of confidence, resilience, and empowerment that extends far beyond our individual lives. In the realm of CRPE, there’s no challenge too great, no dream too ambitious, and no obstacle too daunting. We face life’s trials confidently, knowing we have the inner strength to endure and emerge stronger. We embrace our uniqueness and celebrate our diversity because our individuality enriches our collective experience. Confidence, resilience, and empowerment are not just about pursuing individual goals but also about the greater good. We take our confidence, resilience, and empowerment beyond ourselves and channel it into the betterment of the world around us. We are leaders, not just in our own lives but in the lives of those we touch through our actions and the values we uphold. Our commitment to confidence, resilience, and empowerment extends to the community and society at large. We advocate for change, champion diversity and inclusion, and strive to create a world where everyone can embrace their unique strengths and thrive. Confidence, Resilience, and Empowerment is a gift that keeps giving, and we are dedicated to sharing that gift with the world.
• ICHI Volunteer Association The ICHI Volunteer Association is a student-run club that serves to provide volunteers for partner non-profit organizations. Volunteers work as clinic assistants, fundraising delegates, and nutritional assistance providers. The purpose of the volunteer’s association is to create opportunities for UCLA students who wish to receive experience in a clinical setting to volunteer for partner non-profit organizations. Our goal is to establish opportunities for UCLA students to reach out to the underserved communities in Los Angeles and abroad by providing clinical and social services; where people of all backgrounds who are unable to afford medical services can have access to high-quality medical care without revealing private information. We strive to provide “Services for the Community, By the Community” in order to empower the communities we serve. We do this by recruiting members from within the communities we serve, working with organizations in the area, and asking people from within the community about their most pressing needs via surveys and interviews. We operate as a group of student volunteers and are not a business or non-profit organization.
• If/When/How The purpose of If/When/How: Law Students for Reproductive Justice (“LSRJ”) shall be to provide students at the UCLA School of Law with a community that promotes reproductive rights and freedoms and a forum for the discussion of laws affecting reproductive justice.
• Inclusive Patient Education Association (IPEA) The Inclusive Patient Education Association is dedicated to equipping pre-health students with the cultural competence, empathy, and insights needed to improve chair-side manners to provide exceptional care to diverse patient populations. Through interactive workshops, speaker events, and hands-on learning, we create an environment where future healthcare providers can deepen their understanding of various cultural, socioeconomic, and personal perspectives. Our mission is to inspire a new generation of patient-centered professionals prepared to meet the needs of all individuals with respect, understanding, and compassion.
• Integrative Medicine Student Interest Group Welcome to the Integrative Medicine Student Interest Group (IMSIG)! We are a graduate student organization through UCLA's David Geffen School of Medicine. We are so excited to welcome you and share our interest in all things wellness, mindfulness, and more. Our group focuses on informing medical students about evidence-based integrative therapies like acupuncture, herbalism, and meditation while exposing students to real-world clinical applications right here at UCLA! Learn about tools that can better assist patients and also add to your own wellbeing toolkit. Sign-up below to join our listserv and receive emails about upcoming lunch talks, hands-on workshops, and collaborative events with other student groups.
• Kids in Nutrition We are an organization that teaches interactive and inspiring nutrition and health lessons to elementary school children in the Los Angeles community. The curriculum includes a variety of activities to complete with the students in elementary schools across Los Angeles once a week, for 7 weeks a quarter. KIN’s leadership includes passionate individuals who seek to make a meaningful impact on America’s public health and environmental sustainability systems. We believe that food has direct implications on public and individual health, as well as environmental sustainability, and have decided to dedicate our time to advocating these issues.
• La Cosecha The mission of LA Cosecha is to increase allies fighting for equitable healthcare for farmworkers by increasing awareness amongst future health care providers on the health plights of farmworkers and simultaneously work to expand access to preventative health care resources available to farmworking communites surrounding the greater Los Angeles.
• LA Girl Gains The purpose of this organization is to promote female weight lifting while empowering women to feel strong and beautiful in a judgment free community.
• Lean on Me at UCLA Lean On Me offers an anonymous textbased platform for peer-to-peer support that allows insight of when students prefer to talk to their fellow peers over existing administrative alternatives. We envision a world where anyone can seek and receive emotional support. We will train supporters who will volunteer for the textline in addition to providing a community of support within the organization.
• Lifestyle Medicine Club at UCLA Lifestyle Medicine Club at UCLA is a student-led organization dedicated to promoting evidence-based lifestyle interventions through nutrition and physical activity for the improvement of chronic health and wellness. With a mission to advance the understanding and adoption of whole food, plant-based eating patterns, consistent exercise, progressive sleep routines, and meaningful social relationships, we strongly commit to developing a network of future health professionals who will incorporate lifestyle medicine into their practice(s). We recognize the importance of the social determinants of health on adverse health outcomes, and aim to address intersectional factors of discrimination through educational outreach, health workshops, events, and integrative advocacy for health equity in order to improve chronic health conditions for vulnerable populations.
• Lifestyle Medicine Interest Group Lifestyle Medicine is one of the fastest growing career fields of medicine globally. Holding the promise for health reform as it addresses the root-cause of chronic illness, Lifestyle Medicine is the evidence-based practice of helping individuals and families adopt and sustain healthy behaviors that affect health and quality of life. Examples of target patient behaviors include, but are not limited to, eliminating tobacco use, improving diet, increasing physical activity, and moderating alcohol consumption. Medical students across the country have expressed concerns about the lack of lifestyle medicine knowledge surrounding topics such as physical activity, nutrition, and behavior-change strategies. The aspiration of Lifestyle Medicine Interest Group (LMIG) at DGSOM is to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to counsel patients about exercise, diet, behavior change, and preventative medicine, taking into account positive psychology and the social determinants of health. The goals of LMIG are to: - Educate students about how to address lifestyle-based management of chronic conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, celiac disease, and obesity. - Train students regarding how to provide accurate and helpful Lifestyle Medicine counseling to patients and make targeted recommendations for patients that would fit their budget, life-style and other socio-economic determinants. - Enrich students’ knowledge about exercise, diet and nutrition, behavior change, positive psychology and wellness coaching, and the power of preventative medicine. - Help students gain confidence when speaking to patients about lifestyle-based health behaviors and offer personalized advice that is accurate and evidence-based. The focus of lunch and learn lectures, presentations, workshops, and participation in community health fairs is not only to educate students about lifestyle medicine and chronic illnesses such as diabetes, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, and obesity, but to help them integrate the experience that they will acquire in clinical settings and beyond. Members of LMIG will become registered members of the American College of Lifestyle Medicine (ACLM) which will provide evidence-based Lifestyle Medicine training as the first treatment option in clinical practice through live and online CME-accredited events and educational offerings, certification, clinical practice tools, patient education resources, economic research, networking opportunities, national conferences and advocacy efforts.
• Liver Project The Liver Project (TLP) is an official UCLA student initiative to fight liver disease, including viral hepatitis, nonalcoholic fatty liver diseases/NASH, alcoholic hepatitis, and liver cancer. TLP emphasizes a culturally relevant approach to health care, fronting the backgrounds and mindsets of specific target groups to deliver the most effective services. Collaborating with nonprofits, schools, and other community organizations, TLP combats liver disease across Southern California through para-medical outreach including education, fundraising, and clinical volunteering.
• MannMukti at UCLA MannMukti operates as a university chapter of the national MannMukti organization. Our mission is to encourage healthy, open dialogue of South Asian mental health issues in an effort to remove stigma, improve awareness and promote self-care. Through grassroots advocacy, research, and outreach, we hope to normalize this topic of conversation within the South Asian diaspora, increase access to culturally specific care, and build a South Asian community that values mental health and wellbeing.
• MedConnect @ UCLA MedConnect at UCLA is a pre-health networking organization designed to support and guide students pursuing careers in medicine, dentistry, and other healthcare professions. Our mission is to create a collaborative environment where pre-health students can build professional connections, gain valuable insights into medical careers, and develop the skills necessary for their journey towards there future school in healthcare MedConnect offers a wide range of resources aimed at fostering student success: We host events that allow students to connect with doctors, dentists, and healthcare professionals. These events provide valuable insights into various medical fields, including offering potential shadowing opportunities, internships, mentorship, research, and allowing healthcare students to bring there ideas together. Members are paired with upperclassmen, alumni, or professionals who provide personalized guidance on everything from coursework and MCAT prep to personal statements and interviews, helping students through the application process. We also offer sessions on stress management and resilience, key for thriving in a demanding academic environment. MedConnect regularly invites healthcare professionals to share their experiences, providing students with in-depth knowledge about different medical careers and inspiring them to explore their specific interests within healthcare. We partner with local clinics to offer hands-on experience, allowing members to gain clinical exposure and build their resumes while learning about patient care and community health. MedConnect fosters a sense of community through social events and study groups, where members can support each other both academically and emotionally. MedConnect is open to all UCLA students interested in medical careers. By joining, members gain access to a network of peers and professionals dedicated to helping them succeed in healthcare. Most importantly, The MedConnect Club @ UCLA is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive environment, bringing together students and professionals from a wide range of backgrounds, cultures, and experiences. By welcoming individuals from various healthcare disciplines—such as medicine, nursing, public health, and research—we create a rich atmosphere of perspectives that enhances learning and collaboration. Our events and activities celebrate this diversity, ensuring that all voices are heard and valued, ultimately enriching the healthcare dialogue and expanding our understanding of the field. We look forward to meeting you !!
• Medical Associates for Rehabilitation Care (MARC) Medical Associates for Rehabilitation Care (MARC) is a non-profit organization at UCLA dedicated to advocating for and supporting individuals in rehabilitation. Through our four main focuses - education, advocacy, community engagement, and volunteering - MARC strives to make a tangible difference in the field of rehabilitation, promotes awareness, and challenges stereotypes surrounding rehabilitation. All UCLA students passionate about fostering a more inclusive society are welcome to join MARC and contribute to our mission.
• Medical Experience through Service in Healthcare The purpose of Medical Experience through Service in Healthcare is to act as a bridge between understaffed free health clinics/non-profit organizations and UCLA students interested in volunteering for their community. We hope to encourage student involvement in both health and non-health related service activities within the local community, and to promote awareness of the low-income communities and their healthcare needs in the Los Angeles area.
• MindBody Collective at Ucla MindBody Collective at Ucla is a student-led organization dedicated to integrating mental wellness and physical fitness. We provide a supportive space where students can prioritize their mental health through movement, mindfulness, and community. Our club offers engaging activities such as group workouts, guided meditation, stress-relief events, and expert-led discussions on mental resilience. By fostering a balance between mind and body, we empower students to take charge of their well-being and build lifelong healthy habits.
• Mood Psychology @ UCLA The Mood Psychology @ UCLA is a student organization committed to promoting mental well-being among international students. We aim to raise awareness about mental health, eliminate the stigma surrounding mental health issues, and provide essential resources to help international students cope with psychological challenges. Through workshops, panel discussions, and collaboration with campus resources, we offer opportunities for personal and professional development, particularly for those interested in psychology and related fields. The organization also serves as a networking hub, connecting international students with professionals in the field of psychology, while creating a welcoming and inclusive environment where every student can find support and a sense of belonging.
• Muscular Dystrophy Society at DGSOM Muscular dystrophies (MD) are a genetically and clinically diverse group of rare muscle disorders that lead to the progressive weakening and breakdown of skeletal muscles. With nine types of MD, all characterized by eventual loss of strength and mobility, individuals affected by these conditions face increasing disability and potential deformities. Although there is no cure, ongoing research and treatments provide hope for managing symptoms and improving quality of life. The aim is to empower students to go beyond the classroom and engage in political advocacy and leadership. In partnership with the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA), we focus not only on muscular dystrophies but also on a wide range of neuromuscular disorders. By working together, we aim to shape healthcare policy and advocate for better patient care and research funding for these rare and often underrepresented diseases. Our mission centers on raising awareness of neuromuscular disorders within the medical and broader communities, while providing students with hands-on opportunities to explore careers in medicine. Through collaboration with national medical organizations and attendance at conferences, students can build professional networks and participate in meaningful discussions around the future of healthcare. These experiences will equip future healthcare leaders with the skills necessary to drive change in both patient care and medical research. Working closely with the MDA to engage in political advocacy at the local, state, and national levels. We advocate for policies that promote funding for neuromuscular disease research, support patient access to cutting-edge treatments, and raise the profile of these rare diseases within the healthcare system. By involving medical students in these efforts, we aim to foster a new generation of physicians who are not only skilled clinicians but also leaders in healthcare policy and patient advocacy. In addition to advocacy, our organization supports opportunities to learn more about MDS and other neuromuscular issues from talented faculty at UCLA involved in research. By partnering with UCLA Health physicians students will gain valuable insights into the challenges and advancements in the treatment of neuromuscular diseases. These efforts will allow students to see firsthand the importance of research in shaping the future of healthcare and improving patient outcomes. By creating a network of student advocates for neuromuscular health, we hope to build a movement dedicated to improving the lives of individuals with neuromuscular diseases. Through leadership, advocacy, and education, the Muscular Dystrophy Society and Neuromuscular Illness Club will work to make a lasting impact on the future of medicine.
• Muscular Dystrophy Society on Campus Muscular dystrophies are a genetically and clinically heterogeneous group of rare muscle disorders that progressively weaken and breakdown of skeletal muscles over time. There are 9 types of muscular dystrophy, with each type involving an eventual loss of strength, increased disability, and possible deformity. There's currently no cure for muscular dystrophy (MD), but a variety of treatments can help to manage the condition. As different types of MD can cause quite specific problems, the treatment one receives will be tailored to their specific needs. As a member of Muscular Dystrophy Society on Campus (MDS), we aim to raise funds, do volunteer work, and donate to research facilities specialized in MD. We further aim to spread awareness of MD through partnering with the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA), and bringing to light related neuromuscular diseases in the greater UCLA community. We hope to be able to spread our mission to campuses across the nation and educate students worldwide about MD.
• Music Meditation The Music Meditation Club offers students a serene and supportive environment to relax, recharge, and explore the profound benefits of mindfulness and meditation through music. In today’s fast-paced world, students face immense academic, social, and personal pressures, making it essential to have a space where they can find peace and balance. Our club is a haven for those seeking a mindful outlet to destress, connect, and rediscover their inner calm. At the heart of our activities is the practice of mantra meditation, with a particular focus on the Hare Krishna mantra. This timeless chant has been cherished for centuries as a means to achieve mental clarity, emotional resilience, and spiritual connection. Chanting this mantra is not only a meditative practice but also an uplifting and joyous experience. The rhythmic repetition of sacred sounds helps quiet the mind, allowing participants to immerse themselves in the present moment and develop a deeper sense of self-awareness and harmony. In addition to mantra meditation, the club offers a variety of other mindfulness-based activities designed to support students’ well-being: Guided Meditations: Our guided meditation sessions are carefully designed to help participants release tension, focus their thoughts, and cultivate mindfulness. Led by experienced facilitators, these sessions cater to both beginners and seasoned practitioners, making it easy for anyone to join and benefit from this practice. Sound Baths: Experience the healing power of sound with our immersive sound bath sessions. Using instruments like singing bowls, gongs, and chimes, these sessions create a sonic environment that promotes deep relaxation and rejuvenation. The resonant tones and vibrations wash over participants, helping to dissolve stress, improve focus, and restore balance to the mind and body. Workshops and Discussions: We regularly host workshops and discussions that delve into the philosophy and science of meditation, mindfulness, and sound healing. These events are an excellent opportunity for members to deepen their understanding of meditation practices and explore their impact on mental health and personal growth. Community and Connection: Beyond the meditative practices, the Music Meditation Club is a place to connect with like-minded individuals who share an interest in music, mindfulness, and self-care. Our supportive community encourages open dialogue, shared experiences, and meaningful connections. Our mission is to empower students to take charge of their mental and emotional well-being by integrating music and meditation into their daily lives. Whether you’re looking to reduce stress, improve focus, or simply explore a new hobby, the Music Meditation Club welcomes you with open arms.
• National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) The "National Alliance on Mental Illness" (NAMI) at UCLA is a student-led, student-run mental health club based on the nation's largest mental health advocacy organization. NAMI seeks to combat the stigma surrounding mental health issues and advocate for the improvement of individuals affected by such challenges, particularly within the Los Angeles area and the UCLA community. Our purpose is to establish a safe and inclusive platform where individuals can find support and solace to address their struggles. Our goal is to foster empathy across diverse backgrounds and communities, encouraging those facing difficulties to seek assistance when needed. Through comprehensive educational efforts and grassroots initiatives, we seek to raise awareness about NAMI and its resources to promote a holistic approach to mental health advocacy.
• Nunchi Health @UCLA Nunchi Health is a community health organization building inclusive spaces where UCLA students from all cultural backgrounds can learn about and prioritize their mental health. We provide a space for students to actively participate in the healing of their communities through peer support and mental health activities. Our purpose is to empower healthier minds through community building.
• Nursing Students Association at UCLA NSA@UCLA is a student-led organization whose mission includes contributing to the nursing education of all nursing students at UCLA. We are an official chapter constituent of CNSA (California Nursing Student Association) and NSNA (National Student Nurses' Association). We aim to create programs that are representative of all the interests and concerns of nursing students. Our club aims to aid in the development of all nursing students including his/her professional role as future nurses and patient advocates.
• One Love at UCLA One Love at UCLA resembles and upholds the mission of the One Love Foundation, which strives to end relationship abuse by teaching people how to love better. The One Love Foundation is a non-profit organization that provides people with the tools and education to identify when relationships, friendly and romantic, are healthy or unhealthy. The goal of One Love at UCLA is to educate and spread awareness about healthy ways to love so we can eliminate relationship abuse/harmful relationship practices and create a more informed student body.
• Pages for Pediatrics at UCLA Pages for Pediatrics is an organization that writes, illustrates, and publishes children's storybooks on pediatric illnesses and disability. Our aim is to create characters that reflect our patients’ experiences and empower them to embrace their differences. Through relatable characters and engaging plots, our goal is to instill hope, comfort, and solidarity in our readers and promote representation of disability in the broader community. At Pages for Pediatrics at UCLA, we donate books to children's hospitals nationwide and local elementary schools in the LA Unified School District.
• Pathways for H.E.A.L.T.H. Pathways for H.E.A.L.T.H. aims to address the current health disparities faced by communities in the greater Los Angeles area. These health disparities arise from an array of social determinants, which Pathways for H.E.A.L.T.H. will address through a holistic approach.
• Peaks & Professors at UCLA Peaks & Professors at UCLA is dedicated to bringing students and professors together outside the classroom. Our mission is to facilitate these unique interactions by leading small groups of students on hikes and camping trips with UCLA instructors.
• Period at UCLA This organization promotes the well-being of all people and provides assistance to people in need by providing donations, or support to people in shelters. Interest in creating/ advocating legislation in order to destigmatize certain stereotypes and biases.
• Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation Student Interest Group We are a graduate medical student program dedicated to the education of future physicians about the PM&R specialty and its function within the healthcare system. We also strive to help provide research opportunities in the field of PM&R for our members, especially for first-year medical students.
• Pilipinos for Community Health MISSION: Established in 1989, Pilipinos for Community Health (PCH) at UCLA seeks to empower underserved and under-resourced communities in the Greater Los Angeles area and the Philippines by providing free culturally relevant health education and services. Furthermore, PCH seeks to offer resources and foster a collaborative environment to cultivate culturally conscious individuals who will advocate for underserved communities. VISION: Through its two main branches of (1) Community Outreach and (2) Student Resource & Internal Affairs, PCH seeks to improve overall community health and awareness and cultivate a supportive culture of socially-informed students and aspiring healthcare professionals.
• Project Lux Project Lux is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to bridging the gap between healthcare and houselessness. One of the ways we accomplish this is through directly assisting individuals experiencing houselessness access health insurance. By becoming Certified Enrollment Counselors (CECs) through Covered California, members enroll unhoused clients into programs such as Medi-Cal at a variety of different shelters/organizations on a weekly basis. Our current sites include the Skid Row Community Refresh Spot and the Westwood Public Library. We also assemble care packages with food/water and other basic necessities, distributing them directly to the unhoused community. At our enrollment fairs, we provide additional resources including referrals to nearby clinics in which members can point clients towards the care that they need. Moreover, we provide bus passes to make traveling to clinics and other resources more accessible. Lastly, we focus on advocacy, curating useful resources, and calling for change at a higher level. We hope that this multifaceted approach to aiding the unhoused community will help us create a ripple of change.
• Project Sunshine Chapter at UCLA The Project Sunshine Chapter at UCLA aims to deliver the same dynamism Project Sunshine empowers at a national level to multiple hospitals in the Los Angeles area. Our volunteers will relieve the anxiety of the young patients and in a context of fun and play, fostering in them the courage and coping skills necessary to confront procedures that lie ahead. Volunteers spread sunshine, restoring a crucial sense of normalcy to the pediatric healthcare environment. Our goal is to provide free educational, recreational, and social programs to children facing medical challenges and their families.
• Psychiatry Interest Group The Psychiatry Interest Group is dedicated to helping its members explore the field of psychiatry and its many subspecialties. Through lunch talks, skills workshops, outings into the community, and easily accessible information about the field, we hope to not only educate, but to expand the student body's interest in the practice of psychiatry. We consider mentorship to be a necessary aspect of exploring a career path, and will facilitate mentorship relationships with practicing residents and psychiatrists in the community. These relationships will allow open communication that will enable students to learn more about the lifestyle, day-to-day practice, and training process of psychiatry. This group will provide opportunities for leadership to all its members. Members will not only have the opportunity to become the interest group's leaders, but may also hold roles coordinating mentorship and group events. The Psychiatry Interest Group at UCLA will continue to be a part of the Psychiatry Student Interest Group Network (PsychSIGN), a nationwide network of medical students interested in this field. Being a part of this network offers our members connections to peers, residents, and practicing psychiatrists all over the country.
• Public Health Nutrition Club The Public Health Nutrition Club (PHNC) is based out of the Fielding School of Public Health, however we are open to any UCLA community member to join. PHNC is dedicated to championing nutrition in public health. We focus on many areas of nutrition including but not limited to food justice, access, policy, environment, food systems, education, and general advocacy work.
• Quills to Connect Quills to Connect is a pen-pal program that seeks to build meaningful connections between students and senior citizens through letter writing. Our main focus is to improve the mental health of both our student volunteers and seniors by combatting loneliness through the building of meaningful relationships. Members will be paired with a senior pen-pal that resides in a Los Angeles senior home. We hope you join our mission!
• Reproductive Education and Community Health Our organization serves the need for extensive health and sex education for middle and high schoolers, especially in underprivileged communities. We train UCLA students to teach a variety of lessons covering topics such as gender, sexuality, healthy relationships, bullying, and more.
• Reproductive Health Interest Group (RHIG) The Reproductive Health Interest Group (RHIG) is a graduate student group at the UCLA Fielding School of Public Health. Founded in 2002, RHIG brings together students, faculty, and staff to learn about and discuss reproductive health issues, share information, and engage in service and advocacy projects.
• Rosear Unite a community of people who may be experiencing loss, grief, or traumatic death experiences. Provide an open space for healing and a reliant support group. Offer emotional support and resources. Provide a foundation to discuss and combat under-representation due to abnormal family structures/communities (proper titles/consolation in identity). Discussing grief and loss with each other will help medical students better understand their patients through empathy.
• SCOPE Patient Health Advocates Patient Health Advocates (PHA) is a collaborative program between student advocates and UCLA physicians dedicated to connecting underserved patients with community resources to enhance their health and well-being. Volunteers conduct social casework at UCLA clinics, assisting patients of all backgrounds. The program offers a tailored training curriculum featuring public health topics and clinician panels, preparing members to effectively serve UCLA Health patients and physicians.
• SCOPE: Fitness and Nutrition at UCLA SCOPE (Students for Community Outreach, Promotion, and Education): Fitness and Nutrition at UCLA is committed to delivering health education and promoting wellness in elementary aged children throughout the West Los Angeles and Santa Monica Area. As a team of motivated and collaborative undergraduates, we run weekly educational programming at elementary schools and after school programs throughout the winter and spring quarters. We also offer several committees in our club, such as a curriculum development committee and a music committee, which both serve to foster creativity and enhance our impact on our students. At the end of the year, we host a large field event at UCLA called Olympic Day, where we organize several outdoor activities for the children from our classrooms.
• SKY Happiness & Leadership Club The SKY Happiness Workshop is educational, it aims to give students strategies they can use to help them manage stress, and live more fulfilling lives. In the workshop students learn breathing and meditation practices that through consistent repetition they can use to center and bring wellbeing.
• Spoon University UCLA We are the UCLA chapter of Spoon University, an online food publication group run by students for students, featuring recipes, restaurant reviews, and personal stories. We provide content that is both a resource and a source of food-focused entertainment: highlighting restaurants, campus news and events, and lifestyle content specifically tailored for foodies. We hope to be the everyday food resource for our generation, and our goal is to share our love for food with our community.
• Students for Integrative Medicine (SIM) Students for Integrative Medicine (SIM) is a student group at UCLA that strives to raise student awareness for evidence-based, integrative, and whole-person approaches to medicine and health. The healthcare paradigm we support is one that is characterized not only by disease treatment and prevention, but also by interprofessionalism, health promotion, and person-oriented care. SIM encourages students to be aware of our current medical system, methods of self-care, and healing ideologies across cultures. We also provide a forum to learn, experience, share, and explore topics in Integrative Medicine (IM) such as nutrition, mind-body medicine, research, and healthcare. We aim to build a community of students interested in these topics and to connect them with networks of professionals in their respective fields.
• SURGE at UCLA SURGE at UCLA cultivates strength and nurtures a youth-driven movement for reproductive justice, emphasizing the pivotal role of young individuals from marginalized communities, including women, queer, trans, nonbinary, gender nonconforming individuals, and those with limited financial resources. SURGE mobilizes students at UCLA, offers a political haven for young people, champions impactful policy reforms, and drives cultural transformation. SURGE at UCLA is a chapter of the URGE national organization.
• SWC Body Image Task Force The aim of the Body Image Task Force is to help the entire UCLA student body combat issues of body image. We do so by hosting events, workshops, and speakers that tackle issues such as exercise, eating disorders, body dysmorphia, mental health, and self esteem. Living as college students in Los Angeles, we want to help students understand how influenced we all are by media images and we want to give students the tools to combat these influences. The media has given us a specific image of what is beautiful, and we want to encourage every student on campus to feel confident and beautiful no matter how their body looks. By improving our self esteem, we can focus less time on our physical appearance and more time on living our lives. We hope to enhance the self esteem of students by demonstrating beauty isn’t only skin-deep, and by pushing students to be positive with themselves and not to be so critical. We also want to show how physical health affects mental health. We want to teach students ways to take care of their own health which will help them feel better. For instance we emphasize healthy eating and fitness, but encourage individuals to focus on feeling good rather than looking good. We want to make help accessible to those who are struggling with body dismorphia or eating disorders. Through our programming, we hope to educate the student body on these issues and how to tackle them. The Body Image Task Force also aims to help students learn how to handle college stress. We hope to provide stress outlets because we believe that mental health is also connected to self esteem and in general happiness. As students, we all face a variety of obstacles that can ultimately hold us back. We hope to reduce these personal barriers to help each student here reach their full potential.
• SWC Bruin Consent Coalition Bruin Consent Coalition was formerly known as 7000 in Solidarity: A Campaign Against Sexual Assault. Our most important goal is to support survivors of sexual violence. All members receive trauma-informed training, advocacy and resource education. We also prioritize educating our fellow students and community members on the necessity of consent in all sexual acts. Additionally, we encourage fellow Bruins to be effective bystanders and speak out against sexual violence.
• SWC Bruin Run/Walk Run/Walk is one of several committees within the Student Wellness Commission (SWC) and is responsible for putting on one of the biggest student-run events on campus every year: a 5K event in the spring that benefits the Painted Turtlel. It brings together UCLA students, faculty and members of the greater LA community to benefit the children’s hospital. There will be live performances, free food and giveaways as well as a silent auction and prizes.
• SWC BruiNecessities As part of the USAC Student Wellness Commission, BruiNecessities looks to support UCLA students by raising awareness to the lack of basic resources available on campus, and seeks to fill these gaps, by working with different entities on campus to bring programs and services to students. BN was initiated from two unaddressed needs on campus: the service of free menstrual hygiene products and oral health screenings - but the committee's reach goes beyond in addressing hygiene, food insecurity, etc.
• SWC CPR/FA Program The Student Wellness Commission under USAC conducts American Heart Association Heartsaver CPR and First Aid Programs through a committee called CPR/FA Program at UCLA. Providing low-cost Heartsaver certifications, the CPR/FA Program is a unique opportunity for all UCLA undergraduates and faculty to be prepared for emergency situations on campus. Additionally, all instructors are impassioned UCLA undergraduates unified in spirit and goal -- to further curb the rising trend of increasing pre-hospital deaths around the nation.
• SWC Health, Nutrition, & Fitness Health, Nutrition & Fitness (HNF) is a committee under UCLA’s USAC Student Wellness Commission that is dedicated to educating the student body about proper nutrition, fitness, and health. HNF’s goal is to improve student welfare by teaching students how to incorporate healthy habits into their everyday routines. HNF can be seen as a Health – Nutrition – Fitness triangle. If one or more elements of the triangle are missing, the triangle is incomplete and the body suffers. Through unique programs and events, HNF focuses on bringing together all the elements of the triangle to provide students with a truly holistic approach to life.
• SWC Sexperts Dedicated to increasing the awareness and education of sexual health through exciting campus-wide events at UCLA. Focusing on the pillars of communication, consent, sexual-health, and pleasure.
• SWC Student Education and Research of Contemporary Health SEARCH: Student Education and Research on Contemporary Health—our name says it all. We know that there is a lot of research out there on health issues that are currently plaguing college students, but we want to cater out research and solutions specifically for the UCLA student body. Being a college student requires juggling academics, extra-curricular activities, work, friends, and family among a myriad of other things. Sometimes the health of the student gets pushed in the backseat in order to deal with these tasks, and students become sleep-deprived, consume energy drinks, abuse academic performance enhancement drug, and much, much more. Our goal is to find research studies and conduct our own research about healthy living styles and healthy alternatives to common choices and to disseminate this research to the UCLA student body so we can arm them with the tools they need to make the decisions that are best for them not only now, but also for the future.
• SWC Total Wellness Total Wellness is currently a division of the Student Wellness Commission. Total Wellness Magazine is a continuing endeavor started by the Student Welfare Commission in the 90's and refounded in 2009. The organization has come a long way since its humble roots as a quarterly newsletter and has since been committed to building a quality magazine publication replete with a highly trained and talented staff of writers and designers, internal review board, and medical review board of UCLA MDs, PhDs, RDs, and other UCLA health experts and professionals.
• Team HBV Team HBV chapters aim to train knowledgeable educators and inspire student leaders, distribute culturally sensitive and easy-to-understand educational brochures on HBV to students and local residents, organize seminars with documentary films and speakers, promote awareness through variety of campus-wide and community-wide events, conduct campus-wide hepatitis B knowledge surveys before and after events to evaluate effectiveness of outreach, and build fruitful partnerships with other student organizations and with local groups in communities including churches, restaurants, supermarkets, health departments, clinics, refuge centers, and nonprofit organizations. In addition, Team HBV chapters aim to raise funds toward the international Jade Ribbon Campaign and Hep B Free Campaign, practice political advocacy to support greater federal aid for HBV awareness and vaccination programs, and encourage Team HBV chapters to establish at every undergraduate university across the nation. Team HBV will also expose students to the API community through screenings in collaboration with like-minded community partners.
• TeamX Health (formerly iCareX: Think Innovation) TeamX Health is founded with the belief in challenging the status quo to solve healthcare disparity by cultivating thinkers, building leaders, and thinking innovatively. Our mission is to serve as the “X factor” in healthcare for the underserved populations at Mid-Valley Comprehensive Health Center, Olive View-UCLA Medical Center, and other clinics in the greater Los Angeles area. We have many innovative healthcare projects currently underway and many more on the frontline. Our goal is to enhance the value and improve the efficiency of care by allowing healthcare providers to operate at their highest capabilities and by enhancing the quality of care given to patients. Through TeamX Health, we strive to provide a competitive hands-on learning opportunity for volunteers like yourself who are interested in the healthcare field and to make your experience a valuable asset towards your career goals. Here at TeamX Health, we seek members who care deeply in improving the lives of others, while upholding the common values of integrity, kindness, and compassion. We have developed a unique training curriculum to cultivate thinkers and leverage each of our members’ talents to collectively raise our skills in teamwork, leadership, communication, global awareness, and cultural competency.
• The Bruin Blood Initiative The Bruin Blood Initiative is a student-run organization whose mission is to promote awareness of blood related issues at both UCLA and throughout LA. In partnering with community leaders and groups, the Bruin Blood Initiative strives to achieve its goals through researching, educating, and outreaching to the community population.
• The Diabetes Link at UCLA Our chapter of the Diabetes Link (formerly College Diabetes Network) was founded for the purpose of connecting college students with and affected by diabetes in the hopes that these connections will create a support network which will enable students to fulfill their potential and limit the negative psychological and physical effects of diabetes. The The Diabetes Link at UCLA strives to: 1. Create connections with other students with diabetes at UCLA 2. Create connections with the community to inspire children and young adults in the area. 3. Educate the campus and community about diabetes and living a healthy lifestyle. 4. Work to improve life on campus for students with diabetes through emotional support, personal connections, healthcare, and nutrition.
• The Hidden Opponent x Sports Psychology Club The Hidden Opponent x Sports Psychology Club (THO x SPC) is designed to promote mental health to the student-athletes on campus. We would work hand in hand with the coaches and student-athletes to give them access to mental health resources that are designed specifically for student-athletes. Everyone undergoes stress at school, but there is a stigma surrounding student-athletes and how they manage their stress. With the stress of school on top of their sport, we could find ways to reduce the stressors in their lives, while giving them information and guidance about how they can value the importance of their mental health. We would provide student outreach programs specifically for the student-athletes that raise awareness about the importance of mental health. One example of this could be by bringing in a licensed clinical sports psychologist who is trained to work with professional athletes to campus, and hold a seminar for the student-athletes so they could learn from a professional. The main goal of this club is to provide positive mental health resources and spread awareness for this particular group of students, because sports psychology is very niche and overlooked. Hopefully, this club will serve as a way to positively incorporate mental health into the lives of student-athletes, and raise awareness for any mental health-related issues these students may be experiencing. We will also make this club extremely accessible for the student-athletes themselves, because we understand it is hard for these students to get involved in clubs on campus due to their busy schedules. We would do so by holding meetings on Google Meet as well as in-person, as that may be easier to fit into their busy schedules if they would like to join. We will also provide detailed notes and announcements via Google Classroom, Slack, and email. This way, if students do not have time to watch or attend meetings, they can stay in the loop and still be involved in the club to whatever capacity they can contribute. We will also definitely reach out to the coaches privately, and ask them if there are any specific things they think would be beneficial to help their student-athletes during the academic year. We would also love to administer a survey to all the student-athletes, where they could give us their anonymous opinions about things they are stressed about, so we could try to find ways to alleviate those stressors. We are also an official chapter of "The Hidden Opponent", a nationwide nonprofit organization that promotes mental health awareness for student-athletes across high school and college campuses. With this organization, we are able to provide resources and break the stigma on mental health in sports. We work with the NCAA and Club Sports Teams to host mental health awareness games, where we shine light on the importance of mental health with the help of a specific sports team. Working with "The Hidden Opponent" is an amazing way to promote mental health awareness in sports to student-athletes, as well as any student who either partakes in a sport on or off campus, or has a passion for mental health in the sports industry.
• UMMA Volunteer Project (UVP) UMMA Volunteer Project (UVP) was founded in 1996 as a volunteer source for the UMMA Community Clinic, a free health clinic established by UCLA graduate and undergraduate students to serve the residents of the South Los Angeles community. Since its opening, UMMA Clinic has served over 30,000 patients, 90% of whom are below the poverty line. UVP has been assisting UMMA Clinic since it's inception and played a crucial role in the clinic's early success by providing a steady group of volunteers to assist at the clinic. UVP allows students the opportunity to volunteer at health fairs, giving them first-hand exposure to the health care field in one of the most underserved regions in the nation. Volunteers also help at the many events in which UMMA Clinic participates, including the Hawthorne Health Fair, Tax Day, Fremont Farmers Market, and Humanitarian Day. To further address the needs of the community, UVP is committed to providing preventative health education to students and patients in South Los Angeles. UVP has established weekly, after-school health and physical education courses at elementary and middle schools in South LA with the aim of promoting healthy living. As part of these courses, students are taught lessons on nutrition and the importance of healthy eating, as well as other health topics. Following each lesson plan are fun and interactive outdoor activities to get the students moving, with the ultimate goal of inspiring a lifelong enjoyment of physical activity. UVP also runs a weekly program for high schoolers in South LA where students learn about contemporary public health issues and present a capstone project on a topic of their choice. The program aims to develop students' research and critical thinking skills and inspire the next generation of leaders in healthcare. In addition to the youth, UVP also aims to educate the adult population of South Los Angeles about various health disorders through the Preventative Health Initiative (PHI). Every week, UVP volunteers spread awareness of initial warning signs, disease prevention, and healthy life-style practices while passing out free food and resources to UMMA Clinic patients and local community members at the Fremont Free Food Fair. These efforts are aimed to curb the prevalence of common health disorders including diabetes, hypertension, and other prevalent conditions. Due to the current pandemic, the Black and communities of color we serve are facing increased discrimination and lack of access to proper care or resources. With our connection to the UMMA Clinic we are hoping to address this prejudice in providing a health clinic that can provide for them without bias towards their race, income or zip code. Join us in making this change.
• USAC Student Wellness Commission (SWC) The purpose of SWC is to advocate on behalf of the students regarding health and general well-being; to plan programs to improve student welfare and the community around them and to educate and increase awareness through various forms of media.
• UVandMe Our mission is to forge a strong partnership with the Los Angeles youth community, working hand in hand to raise awareness and educate individuals about the importance of skin health, preventing skin cancer and communicable skin diseases, and mental health. Through outreach, advocacy, and accessible resources, we are committed to reaching out to marginalized populations, ensuring that everyone, regardless of their background or circumstances, has access to vital information and resources for skin health and mental wellness. Together, we strive to promote a culture of skin health that embraces safe skin practices, informed choices, opportunities for mentorship and exposure to the field of medicine.
• Vietnamese Community Health Project at UCLA Vietnamese Community Health aspires to address the issue of preventative health through education, free services, and screenings in the Orange County and greater Los Angeles area. We attempt to accomplish this in three ways: promoting awareness of prevalent health issues affecting low-income families with minimal access to healthcare in southern California; ensuring the growth and expansion of community health by informing and empowering the volunteers and general UCLA members through education and awareness; and collaborating with other health projects from UCLA and the Vietnamese Community of southern California to provide services and host events that would benefit the Vietnamese and other socio-economically disadvantaged communities. Volunteers work with health professionals, build leadership in health-related community service, interact with patients, become educated on predominant community health issues, and have workshops to help make them strong leaders in the health field and community. VCH members will be provided with numerous opportunities for community service, leadership development, and mentorship opportunities. Community service opportunities include quarterly VCH-sponsored health fairs, biweekly health sites, and participation at community health fairs sponsored by non-profit organizations that VCH partners with. In addition, there is a leadership development "internship" offered each winter quarter. In the program, interns learn about the challenges and rewards that VCH staff members face when making decisions and working collaboratively in a group environment. Interns get the opportunity to apply for a position on VCH staff, as well as a Committee Head; nonetheless, the skills gained from the internship are easily applicable to any other leadership and management position.
• Vitality Medical Initiative Vitality Medical Initiative is a student-led organization at UCLA dedicated to promoting senior health and wellness through functional training, fall risk education, and personalized mobility programs. Our goal is to support older adults by enhancing strength, balance, and independence using evidence-based practices and inclusive, adaptive approaches. In addition, we aim to educate individuals of all age groups on the importance of functional health and well-being through curated programs, presentations, and meetings.
• Wazo Connect Wazo Connect is a peer mentorship program centered around improving mental health at UCLA. As a mentor, you are trained under CAPS, CARE and LGBTQ and then paired with a mentee where you will undergo a 6-week program to provide them with the mental health support they need. This program works in tandem with bi-weekly wellness events that promote self-care and mental health education.
• We Kids United at UCLA The purpose of We Kids United at UCLA is to provide funding and resources to the larger We Kids United Corp, a non-profit organization that strives to educate doctors in Haiti in regards to POCUS education in hopes of alleviating the issue of limited medical supplies and training in the area. Through this effort, club members contribute to enhancing healthcare access in Haiti while gaining rewarding experiences through their activities.
• Wellness in Nursing @ UCLA Wellness in Nursing is an organization that allows members to share and promote wellness within the scope of nursing.
• Wilderness Medicine Interest Group Dedicated to exploring the intersection of medicine and the great outdoors, WMIG provides hands-on experiences, workshops, and discussions focused on austere and remote healthcare. Join us to learn skills for providing care in challenging environments, from backcountry expeditions to disaster response.
• Women's Health Nursing Organization The Women’s Health Nursing Organization (WHNO) advocates for women’s health by collaborating with healthcare professionals and working with our community to educate, empower, and provide holistic care.
• Yoga for the Heart Yoga for the Heart is a one-of-a-kind student organization that offers yoga with a twist! We aim to foster a supportive and inclusive community centered around mindfulness, journaling, and yoga. Our mission is to create a safe and welcoming space on campus where students can prioritize their mental health, connect with their inner selves, and find balance amidst the demands of college life. Along with individual growth, we are committed to building a supportive community where students connect, share experiences, and uplift one another. We believe that by offering opportunities for yoga, meditation, and reflective journaling, students can develop tools to manage stress, foster resilience, and promote overall well-being. See you on your mat!