ElevateMeD in the Community with HELP Now AZ
Partner Spotlight:
HELP Now AZ
In preparation for our upcoming ElevateDReams program, Help Now AZ invited us to participate in their monthly Family Partner Saturday on Saturday, September 5th so families could become familiar with ElevateMeD and sign up to participate in upcoming programming.
ElevateMeD Scholars and supporters volunteered their time with HELP Now AZ, spending time connecting with children and families through conversation, activities, and simple moments of connection—from making paper airplanes and sharing laughs to answering questions and sharing their own journeys.
These interactions gave children a chance to see future physicians and healthcare professionals as people they could relate to—and possibilities they could imagine for themselves. By the end of the afternoon, more than one child was talking about wanting to become a doctor.
That is the heart of ElevateDReams. We may never know what one conversation or moment of encouragement can spark, but sometimes seeing what is possible is where a dream begins.
For our Scholars, the experience was just as meaningful. Yezan “iPod” Hassan, a 2026–27 ElevateMeD Scholar, summed it up simply: “My heart was full.”
“My heart was full.”
PHOTOS: Courtesy of Chloe Reyez, 2026-27 Elevate(pre)MeD Scholar
We look forward to our continued partnership with HELP Now AZ when families return for ElevateDReams on September 19. Children will have the opportunity to rotate through interactive, age-appropriate activities focused on healthy habits, movement, financial literacy, and what it means to pursue a career in medicine, while also spending time with ElevateMeD Scholars and mentors who can share their own journeys and encouragement.
The goal is not simply to introduce children to medicine, but to expose them to new people, experiences, and possibilities that can help them dream beyond what they may see in their current circumstances. Families will also receive CARE for a Dream kits, created in partnership with The C.A.R.E. Organization, as another reminder that their dreams are worth investing in.
HELP Now AZ families interested in participating in ElevateDReams programming on SAT 9/19/26 at 11:00 AM should sign up through HELP Now AZ by THU 9/16/26 and sign a parent release form.
About HELP Now AZ
HELP Now AZ works to change the cycle of homelessness through children and families by providing immediate aid and comfort, promoting awareness, and advancing education for those experiencing homelessness. Through community partnerships, volunteer engagement, and year-round programming, the organization works to restore dignity and hope while helping families across Maricopa County move toward greater stability.
Get involved:
Physicians can join the ElevateMeD Mentors Network to be a resource to Scholars following behind them. For those wishing to support the ElevateMeD Scholars Program directly, please consider joining our Advisory Board, where you can volunteer on various committees that support our board of directors and guide the direction of our programming and efforts. Please follow us on social media and help us expand our reach by liking and sharing our posts. Learn more ways to get involved at elevatemed.org/friends.
ElevateMeD Scholars Program
The ElevateMeD Scholars program provides significant financial assistance to medical students while providing them access to mentorship, leadership development, and financial literacy education. Scholars also have opportunities to put those skills into practice through community engagement, mentorship, and experiences that help them grow as confident, compassionate leaders.
