Future Physicians, Lasting Impact: MU-WCOM’s 2026 Day of Service
- Brooke Kennis
- Jul 31
- 2 min read
There are few things in life more inspiring than seeing people come together to create tangible change in the lives of others. That is exactly what happened on Wednesday, July 29, when Home Repairs for Good and Marian University Wood College of Osteopathic Medicine (MU-WCOM) partnered for the fifth year to host the school’s Day of Service for the incoming class of medical students.
With 168 medical students working alongside Home Repairs for Good staff and volunteers as well as MU-WCOM faculty and staff members, the event made a powerful impact throughout the community. Together, these student volunteers supported older homeowners in their efforts to remain in their homes safely and with dignity.
In Indianapolis’ Near Northwest neighborhood, volunteers served 11 homeowners—including three veterans—as well as the Aspire House community center. Through landscaping and exterior repair projects, students helped improve the safety, accessibility, and longevity of homes and a vital community gathering space.
MU-WCOM’s 2026 Day of Service also provided an opportunity for these future healthcare professionals to gain an early understanding of how social determinants of health, including safe and stable housing, can affect an individual’s overall health and well-being.
Hear from the students themselves as they reflect on the day:
“Being here is nice. Marian’s mission is supporting work that gets us out into the community, and it reinforces what I want to do as a career—helping people.” — Ojaswini Thodupunoori
“It means a lot to see the amount of progress we have made in just two hours and to lift the burden off a homeowner. It’s inspiring.” — Alison Rickert
“It shows that the little stuff—like painting a person’s home—can help them with their well-being and outlook on life.” — Manuela Jaramillo
The Class of 2030 was not only tasked with getting their hands dirty and making a difference throughout the Indianapolis community, but they were also encouraged to expand their impact even further by donating or sharing a fundraising link to continue to support no cost repairs for homeowners in need across the I-465 loop, which you too can contribute to here.
By raising funds, these future physicians are helping more older homeowners feel recognized, supported, and valued in the communities where many have lived for decades—or even their entire lives. Their efforts will help ensure that more older adults and individuals with disabilities can continue to live safely and independently in the homes they love.
To see the impact of the work completed by the MU-WCOM medical students, check out the recap video and photo gallery below!
We are incredibly proud of everything the Class of 2030 accomplished as a cohort on this beautiful Wednesday. The impact of their work will extend far beyond a single day, and we know that the homeowners and community members they served will remember their generosity for years to come.
Best of luck as you begin your medical education!
We cannot wait to see how you will continue changing lives—both inside and outside the healthcare field.
Comments