IFM | From Passion to Impact: How AAFP Foundation Programs Empower the Next Generation

In this episode of Inside Family Medicine, host Margot L. Savoy, MD, MPH, FAAFP, talks with family medicine residents Katie Allan, MD, and Bridget Bunda, MD, recipients of the AAFP Foundation's Family Medicine Cares Resident Service Award. They share how a community-identified need in Boise grew into a resident-supported program providing wound care, health screenings and other services to people experiencing homelessness.

The conversation explores what it means to meet patients where they are, build trust through consistency and listen before acting. Allan and Bunda also discuss how Foundation support helped them expand street- and shelter-based care, involve more residents and build the work into their training program. Their advice for students and residents with big ideas is simple: find your people, follow what sparks your curiosity and be willing to take a chance.

Topics by timestamp

00:00 Introduction
01:07 Meet Katie Allan and Bridget Bunda
04:12 Bringing health care to people experiencing homelessness
07:01 Expanding street and shelter-based care in Boise
09:18 Homelessness and housing challenges in the community
16:36 How AAFP Foundation support helped the project grow
20:42 Developing leadership and building a sustainable program
24:38 How the experience is shaping their careers
27:30 Advice for students and residents with big ideas
35:07 What gives them hope for the future of family medicine

Learn more about AAFP Foundation programs, award opportunities and ways to support the future of family medicine through the AAFP Foundation.

• AAFP Foundation homepage

• Family Medicine Leads Emerging Leader Institute

• Family Medicine Cares Resident Service Award

• Foundation annual report

• Ways to support the Foundation

• AAFP Foundation programs

Disclaimer

Copyright 2026. AAFP. The views presented in this broadcast are the speaker's own and do not represent those of AAFP. The information presented is for general, educational, or entertainment purposes and should not be considered legal, health, financial, or other advice. AAFP makes no representation as to the accuracy or completeness of the information and is not responsible for results that may arise from its use. Consult an appropriate professional concerning your specific situation and respective governing bodies for applicable laws. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by AAFP unless specifically stated otherwise. AAFP and the AAFP logo are registered trademarks of the American Academy of Family Physicians.