HHRI and HHS in the community

Hennepin Healthcare Research Institute (HHRI) and Hennepin Healthcare (HHS) recently participated in community outreach events during the summer and fall seasons. One of these events was Open Streets, a series of free and family-friendly events that advocate for street places that prioritize people. During Open Streets major thoroughfares are closed to car traffic, opening them up to people walking, biking and rolling and connecting them with community businesses and neighbors. HHRI and HHS participated twice in the Open Streets events, one on June 10 and the other on October 8. The June 10 event was held at East Lake St. in Minneapolis from 2nd Ave S. to 22nd Ave S., near Hennepin Healthcare’s East Lake Clinic, while the October 8 event took place on Lyndale Ave S. in Minneapolis from W 22nd St. to W 42nd St., near Hennepin Healthcare’s Whittier Clinic and Pharmacy.

At both events, the team from HHRI and HHS consisted of researchers, providers, and staff from various departments, who were staffing a booth with two tables. The booths were set up to inform the community about the services provided by Hennepin Healthcare and the medical research conducted by HHRI. Attendees could learn about medical research, meet providers, and learn about Hennepin Healthcare services.

The HHRI/HHS tables had several activities, giveaways, and treats for the community, including bike helmet fittings; trivia/prize wheel; information about the Between Us program, Hennepin Healthcare services and HHRI research, and more. The community members had a great time, and it was an excellent turnout.

Other events HHRI and HHS participated in were the Twin Cities Pride Festival at Loring Park in Minneapolis June 24 and 25 and Morris Nilsen’s Community Trunk or Treat in Richfield, near Hennepin Healthcare’s Richfield Clinic, on October 14. Trunk or Treat is a free, family-friendly event that supports local businesses. Hennepin EMS and the Pediatric Mobile Clinic were among the participants. During the event, HHRI items were given away to the attendees.