SNMA Students Launch “MSU Miles for Medicine” to Support Local Clinic

October 16, 2025

What began as an idea among a group of medical students quickly became a community-wide event, bringing Spartans, families, and residents together in the name of health and service.

On October 4, the College of Human Medicine’s Student National Medical Association (SNMA) hosted the first-ever MSU Miles for Medicine in East Lansing, featuring a 5K run, 2-mile walk, and Kids Fun Run.

“We wanted to encourage physical activity in the community while highlighting the impact and needs of Care Free Medical,” said Amir Alexander Young, second-year student and SNMA East Lansing president.

Proceeds from the event supported Care Free Medical, a nonprofit that provides medical, dental, optometry, and behavioral health care to uninsured and underinsured residents across Metro Lansing. The funds will help cover operational costs and purchasing new exam beds for the clinic 

Organizing the inaugural event required months of coordination, from securing sponsorships to mapping the race routes and recruiting volunteers. With support from local running store Playmakers, SNMA students successfully brought their vision to life.

Nearly 90 participants joined the race, ranging from young children to seniors in their seventies. Among them were Interim Dean Supratik Rayamajhi and his wife, as well as Dr. Farhan Bhatti, college alumnus, clinical assistant professor, and CEO of Care Free Medical, who spoke about the clinic’s mission. Members of the University of Michigan SNMA chapter also joined the event. When asked what message she hopes participants took away, Young said,

“Get involved. Take action. If you care about getting all people in our community the health care they need regardless of insurance status, this is your opportunity to improve your own health and someone else’s.”

SNMA hopes MSU Miles for Medicine will become an annual tradition that continues to grow in reach and impact, uniting Spartans and community members around accessible care for all. To support SNMA’s efforts, you can donate here and enter AR000257 in the “find areas to support” section.