
In the first summer of the program, students make a selection to participate in one of 5 community service groups for the duration of their time in the Lynchburg DPT program. These community service organizations include:
- University of Lynchburg Community Health Center
- Wheels on the James
- Geriatric Health and Wellness
- Special Olympics
In the 1st year of the SPI course curriculum, students function in more of a participatory role in their community groups and are exploring professional involvement activities and professional specialties. In the 2nd year of the curriculum, students begin more of an administration and implementation role in their community service programs and will be more solidified in their professional endeavors and activities. The 3rd year students move into more of a mentorship role and succession planning phase for their community groups and are responsible for administrating the Fall Professional Symposium for the community and the 1st and 2nd year cohorts.
The SPI courses are a great way for the students to not only participate in community service, but also explore professional topics such as:
- Advocacy for the patient and the profession
- American Physical Therapy Association participation and meetings
- Promotion of the profession/networking
- Program development and leadership
- Community education
- Local/National/International service
- International service trips (currently have trips yearly to St. Lucia and Guatemala)