Doctors on the Streets
Student Organizations Cleveland
Our Mission
Doctors on the Streets (DOTS) is a student-led organization that provides free and equitable health care to people experiencing homelessness in the Cleveland community. We strive to create a culture of care for disadvantaged individuals, connect people to community resources, and provide an inclusive, hands-on learning experience for HCOM students committed to serving with compassion and respect.
Officers, 2025-2026
| Position | Name |
|---|---|
| President | Selena Alamir |
| Treasurer | Zach Samsa |
| Data Analyst | Garrett Rafn |
| Supply Coordinator | Lauren Smith |
| Social Media Chair | Dinah Walter |
| Volunteer Coordinator | Olivia Fugate |
| Community Outreach Director | Sean Nees |
| Advisor | Leanne Chrisman-Khawam, M.D. |
No Dues
Services Provided
DOTS serves both the Cleveland community and the osteopathic profession by delivering hands-on, street-based medical care to individuals experiencing homelessness. With the guidance of attending physicians and community partners, HCOM students participate in real-time clinical experiences, practicing osteopathic principles such as holistic care, empathy, and the mind-body-spirit approach.
In addition to clinical outreach, DOTS offers meaningful opportunities for experiential learning, interprofessional collaboration, and advocacy. HCOM students gain firsthand experience delivering care to vulnerable populations, which strengthens their clinical skills and deepens their cultural competence. Through collaboration with attending physicians, social workers, and community organizations, students learn to approach healthcare from a multidisciplinary perspective. In addition, DOTS raises awareness about the social determinants of health and encourages advocacy for systemic change to promote greater health equity.
Philanthropic events include:
- Winter Clothing and Hygiene Kit Drives: Collecting and distributing essential items to those in need during the colder months.
- Fundraisers for Medical Supplies: Organizing events to raise funds for purchasing necessary medical equipment and supplies for outreach activities.
- Health Education Workshops: Hosting sessions to educate both the community and students on topics related to public health and wellness.
Tentative Schedule for 2025-2026
- Monthly Street Medicine Outings: In collaboration with Metro Health's Street Medicine Team, DOTS conducts regular outreach sessions, providing medical care directly to individuals in need within the community.
- Fall and Spring Supply Drives: Partnering with student organizations such as the Student National Medical Association (SNMA), we organize drives to collect clothing, hygiene products, and other essentials.
- August Dress Down Day: A fundraiser held at the start of the academic year to raise money for the Metanoia Project, which supports temporary shelter and resources for individuals experiencing homelessness.
- Annual DOTS Day of Service (November, Date TBD): A dedicated day where students, faculty, and community volunteers come together to provide comprehensive services, including medical care, resource navigation, and wellness education.
- Educational Workshops and Guest Speaker Panels: Throughout the year, DOTS hosts sessions focusing on topics like trauma-informed care, addiction medicine, and the role of osteopathic principles in treating underserved populations.
Financing of Events:
DOTS finances its events through a combination of fundraising initiatives, donations, and institutional support. Fundraising efforts include bake sales, merchandise sales, and online crowdfunding campaigns that engage both the student body and broader community. We also seek donations from faculty, alumni, and community members who are passionate about supporting healthcare access for underserved populations. Additionally, DOTS applies for financial support through the Student Government Association (SGA) to help sustain and expand our outreach activities throughout the academic year.