Advocacy Track Residency Program

The Advocacy Track is a longitudinal experience designed for pediatric residents who are passionate about community health and committed to making a measurable impact through advocacy. Residents go beyond volunteering by identifying a specific public health issue, researching evidence-based solutions, and partnering with community-based organizations (CBOs) to develop and implement sustainable interventions.

Program Structure

  • Duration: Minimum 2-year commitment, ideally beginning in Program Year 2
  • Time Allocation: Residents use dedicated time during +1 clinic weeks (Wednesday mornings) to focus on their advocacy projects
  • Mentorship: Ongoing communication with a project mentor, including at least one formal check-in every 3 months
  • Capstone Presentation: Residents present their work annually at the “Community Health & Advocacy Conference” held each spring

Resident Commitment

Residents in the Advocacy Track are expected to:

  • Commit to a defined advocacy project aligned with community health priorities
  • Collaborate with faculty mentors and community partners
  • Regularly evaluate progress and adjust project goals as needed
  • Share outcomes and lessons learned with peers and stakeholders

Goals

The program empowers residents to:

  • Engage meaningfully in community health efforts
  • Improve social determinants of health
  • Lead advocacy initiatives that result in real change
  • Build collaborative relationships with local organizations

Contact Us

For more information or to join the track, contact Dr. Sarah Ventre 

Ventre, Sarah

Sarah Ventre, MD, MPH

Clinical Assistant Professor

Niagara Street Pediatrics 1050 Niagara Street Buffalo, NY 14213

Phone: (716) 768-7600; Fax: (716) 768-7621

Email: sjventre@buffalo.edu