What is HealthCorps? 

HealthCorps places peer mentors from Arizona State University and Grand Canyon University in low-resourced, high-needs middle and high schools. College mentors lead clubs about mental and physical health challenges facing students’ local communities. Then, the students research and develop solutions to a health challenge, which they present to the rest of their school campus. 

Students have created TikTok dance challenges, 5K runs, fitness field days and community gardens as solutions projects. 

“It’s really about giving them the tools to make real change, not just talking about it,” HealthCorps CEO Amy Braun said. 

Nearly 90% of participating students implement at least one health behavior change after taking part in the program, such as drinking enough water in a day to stay properly hydrated or making exercise a routine, according to the nonprofit. 

The organization works with schools and organizations in eight states, according to Braun. That includes four “partner sites” in Arizona. 

“We needed help," said Kenilworth Principal Anthony Pietrangeli. "We don’t have the resources without HealthCorps to reach as far into these students’ homes.” 

The education department will promote HealthCorps on its online educator platform and through the work of the Arizona Education Economics Commission, an initiative developed by

Superintendent of Public Instruction Tom Horne to foster workforce development through industry collaboration. 

“Dr. Oz and I share a passion for having health and wellness; and we need to do as much as possible to teach and encourage healthy eating habits, exercise, and other lifestyle choices that promote the physical and mental well-being of students,” Horne said in a news release. “HealthCorps shares my focus on that mission as well as the value of giving students opportunities to explore careers in the health care field, where workers are badly needed.”