About EMPOWER: EMPOWER offers a four-year, non-degree college experience program for students with cognitive disabilities that incorporates functional academics, independent living, employment, social/leisure skills, and health/wellness skills in a public university setting with the goal of producing self-sufficient young adults. The University of Arkansas program is offered for students who demonstrate the ability to safely live independently, sustain employment, and socially integrate during their enrollment. The program progresses with an emphasis on workplace experience, community integration, and independent living with transitionally reduced supports.
Public Health interns at EMPOWER work directly with students in the program. In past semesters, students have worked on a project called “Small Changes, Big Impacts”, which helped individuals with disabilities make healthier food and beverage choices. There was a focus on helping students in the program reduce their sugar intake, increase their water consumption, and understand the benefits of healthier choices. They led interactive workshops for health and wellness mentors and let educational sessions for students.
If interested, contact Amanda Wallace at aw008@uark.edu. Please include your resume and describe your interest in this specific position.
