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More than 50 team members welcomed 175 Charlottesville area residents to the 2025 UVA Health Orthopedic Center Ivy Road (OCIR) Community Fair on Saturday, May 3. The Department of Orthopaedic Surgery hosted the free, family-friendly event.

For a second year, the event supported our UVA Health strategic plan initiative of cultivating healthy communities and belonging for all. “We opened our doors to community members to interact with our clinical team members and providers about the services we offer including seven clinics, walk-in injury care, physical therapy, imaging, etc.,” says Alexis Kouril, Ambulatory Administrative Coordinator, UVA Health Orthopedic Center. “Children learned more about career opportunities, toured an operating room, and got a closer look at surgical tools. They also enjoyed face painting, games, crafts, and photos with UVA cheerleaders.” 

Team members also staffed new tables this year including UVA Health Pharmacy Ivy Road and UVA Health University Medical Center Nursing Professional Governance Organization’s DAISY/BEE Awards. The access registration desk helped patients schedule appointments and sign up for MyChart.

“The Community Fair fosters trust, promotes healthy habits, and creates a positive, welcoming atmosphere that strengthens long-term patient loyalty and engagement,” says Kouril.

She adds that it’s great to see team members get together and hang out in a casual work setting. For a second year, The Donut Kitchen served free donuts and coffee.

Joshua Li, MD, PhD, led two sessions: one, a group meditation, and the other on lumbar disc herniation; Lara Myers, MSN, RN, ACNP-BC, shared bone health basics; Caroline Tippet, DPM, talked about diabetic foot health; and Sara Raiser, MD, busted myths about running medicine. “Our providers loved giving their talks and connecting with the community!” says Kouril.

A four-legged, furry friend also made a paws-itive impact!

“One of my favorite parts about the event was having our therapy dog at the pediatric orthopedics table and everyone getting to learn about how Benny helps children stay calm during their appointments,” says Kouril.

See the photo gallery: