For over 20 years, this rally has been a cornerstone for the community, serving as a platform for worship, community engagement and leadership development opportunities. This year, UChicago Medicine AdventHealth partnered with the Illinois Conference Youth Department of Seventh-day Adventists to sponsor it, enhancing its reach and impact.
Recognizing the importance of this event Roberto Gonzalez, associate youth director for the Illinois Conference and organizer of the rally, sought to expand its reach and contacted UChicago Medicine AdventHealth for a partnership. “Partnering with UChicago Medicine AdventHealth has been an incredible blessing. Their involvement offers our youth a firsthand look at how faith and health ministry intersect,” said Gonzalez. “This exposure not only broadens their understanding but also opens doors for them to consider careers in health care as a form of service.”
In addition to sponsoring the rally, UChicago Medicine AdventHealth team members and executives played an active role by leading breakout discussions and facilitating the AdventHealth Career Experience. These sessions encouraged youth to reflect on their purpose, emphasizing the importance of serving others and serving God. Maddie Hann, a current health care student at Andrews University who volunteered at the event, shared her thoughts. “What especially stood out to me was how dedicated they were about encouraging the next generation of Adventist youth in their faith and future.”
Attendees were able to truly envision themselves in a variety of health care roles through several engaging and innovative tools. The virtual reality CPR training lab simulator offered an immersive experience, allowing attendees to have hands-on practice. Community health building boards encouraged collaborative learning and problem-solving and the Interactive Career Mirrors enabled attendees to see themselves as AdventHealth caregivers, helping them visualize their own potential and inspiring them to see health care as a calling.
“The AdventHealth Career Experience offers a meaningful opportunity for young people to explore their calling to serve others and grow into their full potential as followers of Christ. Through immersive, hands-on learning and exposure to cutting-edge health care technology, participants gain valuable insights into medical careers while deepening their faith and strengthening their commitment to compassionate service," said Andres Flores, director of people and culture strategy at UChicago Medicine AdventHealth.
Through Texas Conference Pastor Salomon Espinosa’s powerful message on God working in each person’s life, the uplifting worship led by the Andrews University praise team and the AdventHealth Career Experience, attendees were truly inspired and encouraged to pursue God’s calling for their lives.
Andrea Cardenas is stakeholder communications specialist at AdventHealth.
