Campbell University Doctor of Physical Therapy student Anna Fish has been awarded the APTA North Carolina Impact Grant for her project, Move with Purpose: A Rural Mobility & Wellness Initiative.

The program aims to improve functional independence, balance, fall prevention and overall physical activity for older adults living in rural Harnett County, a population often facing barriers to preventive and rehabilitative services.

Through this initiative, evidence-based physical therapy programming will be brought directly to local senior centers, churches, and community spaces during Spring and Early Summer 2026. Sessions will include group-based strength and balance training, functional mobility activities and fall-prevention education led by DPT students under faculty mentorship.

"Anna's project is an excellent example of how student-led initiatives can directly impact the health and wellness of underserved communities," said Dr. Lori Leineke, assistant professor of Physical Therapy and Fish's faculty mentor. "She has worked diligently to give back to her community by creating experiences that not only benefit the residents of Harnett County, but also showcase the strong clinical skills and service-minded approach of Campbell's DPT students. Her commitment to evidence-based programming, combined with her understanding of the local community, ensures this project will be both meaningful and sustainable."

For Fish, the project holds personal significance.

"Growing up in Harnett County, I have seen firsthand how many people in my community could benefit from accessible fall-prevention and balance workshops," she said. "Being able to give back to the community I grew up in, while addressing such a critical and often overlooked need, is incredibly meaningful. I'm excited to implement this project and see the impact it will have on participants' daily lives."

Grant funding will be used to purchase equipment such as resistance bands, balance pads, mats, and educational materials, ensuring that the sessions are safe, accessible, and sustainable. All materials will remain available for future community programming, extending the impact beyond the initial implementation period.

Fish will also present her project at the APTA North Carolina Annual Conference in September, highlighting the initiative's development and anticipated outcomes to fellow physical therapy professionals.