2024 Colorado Black Health Resource Directory by United Outreach

2024 Colorado Black Health Resource Directory

Dear Community,

It is our great honor to present you with the 2024 Colorado Black Health Resource Directory. Connect for Health Colorado, the state’s official health insurance marketplace, and Colorado Black Health Collaborative (CBHC) have partnered to bring you the 5th edition of the Black Health Resource Directory. This directory has been carefully curated for Black Coloradans seeking culturally appropriate health resources. We believe good health and access to quality care are among our most valuable assets. This Directory contains featured articles, fact sheets, recipes, advertisements, and resources focused on health and well-being.

The directory was developed to...

• Educate our Community

• Respond to requests from Community members for these resources

• Provide the Community with culturally appropriate health-related information

• Enhance awareness about appropriate treatment and prevention

This collection of resources from Black doctors, mental health providers, doulas, wellness practitioners, and health experts truly embodies our theme of working together for our health. We are grateful to those who have contributed informative and empowering content for this edition. Working with the many dedicated writers and contributors who are passionate community advocates has been a privilege.

We hope this directory serves you well and guides you to better health— for yourself, for your family, and for our Community.

Dr. Terri Richardson, Co-Founder, Colorado Black Health Collaborative

Kevin

Patterson, Chief Executive Officer, Connect for Health Colorado

“It has been four long years since our last Directory. The Community has been asking for a new edition for a few years. CBHC is grateful to have Connect for Health Colorado as a partner in this endeavor. We want to thank them for their encouragement and support. We believe that this will be the best edition ever.”

Dr. Terri Richardson

Message from Connect for Health Colorado

It’s been a pleasure and privilege to serve as Chief Executive Officer of Connect for Health Colorado since April 2015. We’re the official health insurance marketplace for the state, a.k.a., the Obamacare marketplace for Coloradans. As a long-standing partner of the Colorado Black Health Collaborative, Connect for Health Colorado is committed to providing a vital tool for the diverse and thriving Black communities across our state. Our marketplace offers a range of health insurance options that cater to the unique needs of these communities. It is our honor to sponsor the 2024 Health Resource Directory publication.

As a husband and father, I know it can become too easy to lose sight of our health needs when juggling our daily responsibilities of family, work, church, and school. Sometimes, we forget to prioritize getting our annual check-ups or needed health exams get pushed back because the medical care available is inaccessible. Critical preventive care measures don’t happen for many without health insurance coverage, or serious chronic conditions go untreated.

Message from Colorado Black Health Collaborative

My name is Jerome Blackwell, and I am honored to serve as Chair of the Colorado Black Health Collaborative (CBHC) board of directors.

As a native of Colorado, I have always been acutely aware of the pressing need to elevate the standard of health within the Black Community. The Colorado Black Health Collaborative (CBHC) is dedicated to harnessing individuals’ and organizations’ collective wisdom and expertise to craft solutions deeply rooted in the community.

Our approach is grounded in data-informed decision-making and inclusive health strategies, with the primary objective of effecting visible and meaningful change within the Black Community. Our core belief in achieving health equity in Colorado’s Black community is a testament to our commitment to nurturing community trust, advocating for the community’s needs, and engaging in meaningful dialogue to address health disparities.

At CBHC, we are resolute in mobilizing a comprehensive array of resources, from health providers and wellness coaches to mental health services, substance abuse support, and financial literacy programs. We understand that these resources are pivotal in upholding health equity within the Black Community.

In line with our theme, ”Working Together for Our Health,” we are steadfast in our responsibility to deliberately foster strong connections across community organizations. Our ultimate aim is to magnify our impact on the health equity of the Black Community. Only through this intentional and sustained effort can we truly make a difference.

Jerome Blackwell Board Chair

Colorado Black Health Collaborative COLORADOBLA

Kidney Disease

A Silent Killer Affecting Black Americans

Your kidneys are vital organs that keep you healthy. They remove waste products from your blood, help to control your blood pressure, make red blood cells, and keep your bones healthy. Kidney ‘disease’ is when your kidneys are damaged and do not work well. Kidney disease can get worse over time and lead to kidney failure and death.

KIDNEY DISEASE

is threatening the health of millions of Americans.

BLACK AMERICANS

are the most affected by kidney disease. Black people with kidney disease are more likely to develop kidney failure than any other group.

#1 CAUSE

Diabetes is the #1 cause of kidney failure among Black Americans. High blood pressure is the #2 cause of kidney failure among Black Americans.

9 in 10

Kidney disease is known as a silent killer. 9 in 10 people with kidney disease don’t know they have it.

35.5 MILLION Americans have kidney disease.

MILLIONS MORE are at risk of developing the disease.

BLACK AMERICANS 4X

more likely to develop end-stage kidney disease (kidney failure) than white Americans.

Many cases of kidney disease are preventable. How?

1. Know your numbers. Get tested for kidney disease (blood/urine). Talk to your doctor about your kidney health.

2. Maintain a healthy lifestyle and manage chronic conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure.

3. Share what you’ve learned with family and friends.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, CKD Factsheet

CDC.org

Health Insurance Coverage

Percentage of adults (aged 18-64) with no health insurance coverage, by race/ethnicity, Colorado 2016-2020 combined annual average

More Black or African American & Hispanic/Latino Coloradans

Skipped Care Due to Concerns of Being Treated Unfairly

Source: Colorado Health Institute, Racial Discrimination and Access to Care in Colorado report, 10.2022

Leading Causes of Death, Colorado 2020

Impact on the African American/Black Community

• Cancer: The types of cancer and outcomes can vary. An example is that African American women have higher death rates from breast cancer compared to other groups despite having lower incidence rates.

• Heart Disease: Heart disease is a leading cause of death for all groups. However, African Americans often experience higher rates of hypertension ( increased blood pressure) and related complications. This can contribute to a higher incidence of heart disease.

• Accidents: The rates of certain types of accidents, such as drug overdose, can be higher in some communities due to various socioeconomic factors.

• Chronic Lower Respiratory Diseases: Conditions like asthma can be more prevalent and severe in African American communities, often due to environmental factors and lack of access to healthcare.

• Stroke: African Americans are at a higher risk for stroke and often experience worse outcomes, partly due to higher rates of hypertension and diabetes.

These disparities highlight the importance of targeted public health interventions and improved access to healthcare for the Black community.

Advanced Practice Providers

Expert Care, Close to Home

When you need specialized care in your healthcare journey, trust the expertise of Advanced Practice Providers (AAPs) who understand your needs. This section connects you with APPs who provide comprehensive care in various specialties, ensuring your health is in capable hands.

HEALTH LITERACY

Advanced Practice Providers (APP)

An APP is a health care professional who has specialized education, training, and certification to provide services like medical diagnoses and treatment. APPs undergo rigorous clinical education and training. They are trained to work in all types of clinical settings. APPs include: physician assistants/associates (PA), nurse practitioners (NPs), certified registered nurse anesthetists (CRNA), certified nurse midwives (CNMs), and others. In the Black Health Resource Directory CNMs are listed in the Maternal Health section.

The Gift of Life: Closing the Organ Donation Gap in Black Communities

Organ and tissue donation for transplantation is a remarkable feat of modern medicine. Thousands of heroic donors give the gift of life each year, yet more than 100,000 people nationally are still waiting for a lifesaving organ transplant. The need impacts all communities, regardless of race or ethnicity, but there is an even greater need among multi-ethnic communities.

Black Americans represent the largest minority group in need of organ transplants. In Colorado, more than 100 Black residents are currently on the waitlist for a lifesaving transplant, underscoring a critical issue affecting the Black community nationwide.

Kevin Harris of Colorado had been suffering from kidney disease for years. When two people decided to be donors, Kevin’s wait for a kidney became hope. Kevin also created more cherished memories with his son, Ryan Harris, a former Denver Bronco and Super Bowl 50 champion.

“Registering as a donor is a simple gift to give,” said Ryan Harris. “You are giving the greatest gift to all those on the waitlist, all those with family members on the waitlist, and those who may need lifesaving transplants in the future.”

Thanks to generous organ donors, Kevin was given two more chances at life, 20 more birthdays, and countless memories with his children and grandchildren.

Disparities In Health and Outcomes

Nationally, Black Americans make up more than onethird of those in need of a kidney despite representing only 13% of the general population. Black Americans

are three times more likely than White Americans to experience kidney failure. In addition, people of color are more likely to need a lifesaving organ transplant due to disproportionately higher rates of diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart disease.

Studies have also shown Black transplant candidates face a higher risk of adverse outcomes, including lower rates of organ transplantation, longer wait times, and higher mortality rates post-transplant. These disparities highlight equitable access to lifesaving treatments and resources for all patients, regardless of their racial background.

While organs are not matched based on race or ethnicity, transplant matches made within multi-ethnic groups can be more compatible. A diverse donor registry makes it easier to find matches, which can also reduce the waitlist to save and heal more lives. This is one of the reasons it is so essential for people of color to register as organ and tissue donors.

In Colorado, more than 100 Black residents are currently on the waitlist for a lifesaving transplant, underscoring a critical issue affecting the Black community nationwide.

Why Register?

One person’s decision can save up to eight lives through organ donation and save and heal up to 75 lives through tissue donation. Say “yes” when obtaining a driver’s license or state ID at the DMV, or register today at donoralliance.org.

Donor Alliance is a nonprofit organization that facilitates organ and tissue donation for transplantation in Colorado and most of Wyoming. It also manages the Donate Life Colorado and Donate Life Wyoming registries in our region. The little heart on a license/ID means a person is on the Donate Life registry.

Ryan Harris, former Denver Bronco and Super Bowl 50 champion donated a kidney to his dad, Kevin Harris

LaNay Abogala, FNP-C MSN Acute/Emergency Care

UCH Anschutz

12505 E. 16th Avenue Aurora, CO 80045 720-848-9111 uchealth.org

 Medicare/Medicaid

Mercy Abuaba, DNP, MSN, NP-C Gerontology

Destiny Internal Medicine

13701 E. Mississippi Avenue Ste. 220 Aurora, CO 80012 720-324-4777 destinyimpc.com

 Telehealth

 Medicare/Medicaid

Diana Babumba-Migadde, APN Family Medicine

Intermountain Health-Thornton Clinic 1181 E. 120th Avenue, Unit A Thornton, CO 80233 303-673-1500 intermountainhealth.org

 Telehealth

 Medicare/Medicaid

Nylah Bass, AGNP-C

Geriatric & Family Medicine Geriatric and Family Medicine Associates

3885 Upham Street, Ste. 100 Wheatridge, CO 80033 303-742-9995 gfmacolorado.com

Typhanie Beasley, DNP Bariatric Surgery Common Spirit 500 W.144th Avenue, Ste. 130 Westminster, CO 80023 303-426-2130 mountain.commonspirit.org

 Telehealth

 Medicare/Medicaid

Godfrey Boyd, MSN, APRN, FNP-C

Family Medicine

Evans Medical Center

4700 E. Iliff Avenue Denver, CO 80222

303-335-0062 evansmedicalcenter.com/#doctor

Leisa Boykin-Willson, PA

Urgent Care

UCH Urgent Care - Steele Street

311 Steele Street Denver, CO 80206

303-372-4000

uchealth.org/locations/uchealthsteele-street-urgent-care-cherrycreek

 Medicare/Medicare

LaTasha Bruner-Hill, DNP, MSHA, FNP-C, CMDP

Family Medicine

Abundance Health Care, LLC

3225 International Circle, Ste. 220 Colorado Springs, CO 80910

720-869-0547

myabundancehealthcare.org

 Telehealth

 Medicare/Medicaid

Cassie Dickinson, NP

Primary Care/Internal Medicine

Denver Health - Bernard F. Gipson, Sr. Eastside Family Health Center

501 28th Street Denver, CO 80205

303-436-4949

denverhealth.org

 Telehealth

 Medicare/Medicaid

Simonique Grissom, FNP

Primary Care/Family Medicine

Denver Health - Lowry Family Health Center

1001 Yosemite Street Denver, CO 80230

303-436-4949

denverhealth.org

 Telehealth

 Medicare/Medicaid

Sherry Johnson, PA Pediatrics

Denver Health - Montbello Family Health Center

12600 E. Albrook Drive Denver, CO 80239

303-436-4949

denverhealth.org

 Telehealth

 Medicare/Medicaid

Lynette Kelley, FNP

Health Research VA

Eastern Colorado Health Care 1700 N. Wheeling Street Aurora, CO 80045

303-399-8020

Sharon Kobak, NP

School Based Clinic

Denver Health-East High School

1600 City Park Esplanade Denver, CO 80206

303-436-4949

denverhealth.org

 Medicaid

Candace Lartigue, NP

Primary Care/Internal Medicine

Denver Health-Bernard F. Gipson, Sr. Eastside Family Health Center

501 28th Street

Denver, CO 80205

303-436-4949

denverhealth.org

 Telehealth

 Medicare/Medicaid

Cassondra McQueen, FNP-C Family Medicine

Destiny Internal Medicine 13701 E. Mississippi Avenue, Ste.220 Aurora, CO 80012

720-324-4777 destinyimpc.com

 Telehealth

 Medicare/Medicaid

Joseph Namongo, NP Geriatrics

Rocky Mountain Senior Care

5920 McIntyre Street Golden, CO 80403

720-434-4876

mountain.commonspirit.org

 Telehealth

 Medicare/Medicaid

Dr. Mary Okonofua, DNP

Psychotherapy, Medication Management

Psychotherapy and Psychiatry Clinic 3585 Van Teylingen Drive, Unit D Colorado Springs, CO 80917

719-413-5005

numedpsych.com

 Telehealth

Kim Pierce, CPNP-PC

Pediatric Infectious Disease

Pediatric HIV

Children’s Hospital Immunodeficiency Program

13123 E. 16th Avenue Aurora, CO 80045

720-777-8233

childrenscolorado.org

 Telehealth

 Medicaid

Chinika Reynolds, PA-C

Pulmonary Medicine

National Jewish 1400 Jackson Street Denver, CO 80206 877-225-5654 nationaljewish.org

 Telehealth

 Medicare/CHIP

Stacie Sidberry FNP-C House calls (per health system request) 720-621-1544

Michele Spottsville, PA-C

Physician Assistant Orthopedics

Anschutz Medical Campus 13123 E. 16th Avenue Aurora, CO 80045 720-777-6600

Gregory P. Taylor, FNP

Family Medicine

Vista Grande 4380 Austin Bluffs Parkway Colorado Springs, CO 80918

719-851-3972

oakstreethealth.com

 Telehealth

 Medicare/Medicare Advantage

Cathie Warren, NP

Obstetrics and Gynecology Center for Wellness MD 8000 E. Prentice Avenue, Ste. D-10 Greenwood Village, CO 80111 303-309-3660 tc4w.com

Cathie Warren, NP

Women’s Care Center for Women’s Health 2352 Meadows Boulevard, Ste. 120 Castle Rock, CO 80109 303-755-0120

Rachel “June” Wekesa RN, MSN Specialization in Family Nurse

Practitioner

Destiny Internal Medicine 13702 E. Mississippi Avenue, Ste. 220 Aurora, CO 80012

720-324-4777

destinyimpc.com

 Telehealth

 Medicare/Medicaid

Yumuriel Whitaker, NP

Primary Care/Family Medicine

Denver Health-Montbello Family Health Center

12600 E. Albrook Drive Denver, CO 80239

303-436-4949

denverhealth.org

 Telehealth

 Medicare/Medicaid

African Organizations

A Thriving Community in Colorado

The African diaspora in Colorado is a vibrant tapestry of cultures, traditions, and stories. Connect with organizations celebrating this rich heritage, providing essential support services, and promoting health and well-being for African residents, immigrants, and their families.

Our African Community Needs Us

For 18 years, the African Leadership Group (ALG) has worked tirelessly to support Colorado’s growing African immigrant community. Our three pillars promote our members’ social, economic, and educational well-being.

Papa Dia Founder & Executive Director African Leadership Group

Access to Health Care

ALG runs 15 initiatives under these three pillars, promoting youth development, business success, and homeownership, among other things. However, our most vital initiatives fall under our Health and Wellness Committee. We are constantly expanding and retooling our efforts to ensure that our members have every opportunity to be physically and mentally healthy.

Impact of Trauma

Because discussing mental health issues is considered taboo in many African cultures, it can be a challenge to get the new arrivals to talk about these experiences and to seek help to overcome the impact of the trauma on their ability to function. In many cases, these migrants live with up to 25 people crammed into a one-bedroom apartment. So, one person suffering from severe mental health challenges can have a detrimental impact on many others. ALG is seeking partners to help us cope with this situation, either through providing funding, counseling services, or technical assistance.

ALG runs a health fair with various partners each year, typically serving more than 500 people. We provide low- or no-cost blood screenings, vaccines, blood pressure screenings, stress management screening, diabetes risk assessment, and colon cancer education. Since many of our members, particularly recent arrivals, have no health insurance, these health fairs provide essential services they might not otherwise receive. We always seek partners and funding to continue expanding our health fair.

Ensuring access to health care has become an even more vital part of our work over the past year, during which more than 750 new African migrants have arrived in the Denver area after crossing the southern border. The arduous journey over land from South or Central America took a toll on the physical and mental health of almost every one of these migrants. They experienced great hardships and faced traumatic situations, including confronting wild animals, being robbed and assaulted, and witnessing the deaths of fellow migrants.

Many of these new arrivals also came to us with significant physical health issues. We have welcomed pregnant women who made the journey without receiving any prenatal care. Others arrived malnourished. We have done our best to provide access to emergency health services. But again, we are seeking additional partners and funding for these programs.

We provide vital services to these migrants, including intensive English classes and life skills training. We also want to help those with advanced education integrate professionally, and we would appreciate support from partners in this area.

Africa Agenda

News media and education organization 1031 33rd Street, Ste. 174 Denver, CO 80205 303-341-1301 office@africaagenda.org africaagenda.org

Africa in the Rockies

Increase social awareness and knowledge of Africa 3445 Penrose Place, #225 Boulder, CO 80301 303-473-0950 info@africaintherockies.org africaintherockies.org

African Chamber of Commerce-Colorado

Create economic growth and development by empowering African American business community 1250 S. Parker Road, Ste. 100B Denver, CO 80231 720-638-8184 info@africanchambercolorado.org africanchambercolorado.org

African Community Center

Welcome center for African Refugees 925 South Niagara Street, Ste. 200 Denver, CO 80224

303-399-4500 accoutreach@acc-den.org acc-den.org

African Heritage Celebration, Inc.

All volunteer organization that provides school supplies, textbooks and develops school facilities for African children 1163 Wyndemere Circle Longmont, CO 80504 720-732-4638 africanHeritagecelebration@gmail. com ahcchildren.com

African Leadership Group Papa Dia

Serves African Immigrant families to improve their quality of life 10700 E. Evans Avenue Aurora, CO 80014 303-862-4062 info@usalg.org usalg.org

Colorado Taste of Africa, Inc.

Celebrates the African diaspora culture and promotes their interest Denver, CO 720-477-0565

coloradotasteofafrica@gmail.com coloradotasteofafrica.com

Denver Sister Cities International

Building global partnerships through cultural, educational, and economic endeavors

2650 E. 40th Avenue Denver, CO 80205

303-832-1336 denversistercities.org

Ghana Educational Collaborative

Provide academic scholarships, mentorship opportunities and access to students living in poverty in Ghana 1690 Fillmore Street Denver, CO 80206

303-518-4013

info@ghanaedcollaborative.org ghanaedcollaborative.org

Heritage Camps for Adoptive Families, Inc.

Supporting the healthy development of families formed by adoption 2052 Elm Street Denver, CO 80207

303-320-4234 info@heritagecamps.org heritagecamps.org

Nigerian Women Association in Colorado

Mrs. Anthonia Osaloni Celebrates womanhood, family, and Nigerian culture 303-506-4606 nwaco2021@gmail.com nwacolorado.org

Somali Community Center of Colorado

Provides education, support, advocacy, and assistance to youth, students, and families from refugee and immigrant populations

1582 S. Parker Road, Ste. 201 Denver, CO 80231

303- 369-5998

somalicommunitycenter@msn.com somaliamerican.org

Sudanese-American Public Affairs Association

Serving the interests of Sudanese Americans

3124 S. Parker Road, Ste. A2-589 Aurora, CO 80014

281-701-4410 sapaa.org

Taste of Ethiopia-Colorado

Explores the rich heritage and vibrant traditions of Ethiopia

18680 E. Iliff Ave, (Unit D & E) Aurora, CO 80013

303-731-6173

tasteofethiopiafestival@gmail.com tasteofethiopia.org

Tigray-Ethiopian Community Association-Colorado

Supports Tigraian refugees in Colorado

11182 E. Mississippi Avenue Aurora, CO 80012

720-748-3816

officemanager@tigraycommunityco. org tigraycommunitycenter.org

United African Premier Soccer League, Colorado

The goal of the UAPSL is to connect all Africans and African descendants in the USA 720-262-8698 uapsl.com

Chiropractors

Holistic Health Aligned with Your Needs

Experience the transformative power of chiropractic care from skilled practitioners who understand the unique needs of the Black community in Colorado. Find relief from pain, improve mobility, and enhance your overall well-being through personalized treatment plans that address the root cause of your discomfort.

Dr. Dwaine Holloway, DCM

Chiropractor

Fit Chiropractic, Inc.

1761 Ogden Street Denver, CO 80218

303-861-1774

 Medicare/Medicaid

Dr. Laketia Johnson, DC (Dr. J)

Chiropractor

42 Klicks Chiropractic 7939 Smokewood Drive Colorado Springs, CO 80908 719-232-1193

42klickschiro.com

Dr. Tracey Jones, CHIRMD

General chiropractic and care post motor vehicle accidents

Jamaa Health and Healing

Chiropractic

3090 S. Jamaica Court, Unit 301 Aurora, CO 80014

303-524-2994

Dr. Brittany McClain, DCM

Chiropractor

Mountain View Pain Center 63 N. Quebec Street Denver, CO 80230 720-798-2811

mvpc.com

Dr. Lauren Penn, DC

Chiropractor, Nutrition

Pinpoint Chiropractic and Wellness 2130 Academy Circle, Ste. D Colorado Springs, CO 80909 214-799-0374

pinpointchiro@gmail.com pinpointchiro.com

Dr. Rochelle Smith, DCM

Chiropractor, nutrition

Prolific Chiropractic 2101 S. Blackhawk Street, #140 Aurora, CO 80014

303-337-1321

prolificchiropractic.com

 Medicaid

CHIROPRACTORS

Colorado Chiropractic Association

303-755-9011 needchiro.com

The American Black Chiropractic Association abcachiro.com

Dance

Express Yourself, Embrace Wellness

Dance is a powerful form of self-expression and a celebration of life. Experience the joy and health benefits of dance with classes and programs led by Black instructors in Colorado who foster a sense of community and cultural connection.

Baobao Foundation

Adjei Abankwah

Baobao serves as a figurative Baobao tree for Colorado communities to gather under to learn about the richness of West African culture and arts. The Mokomba Ensemble is a multinational Boulder-based group. They perform traditional and contemporary African drum and dance. Workshops and classes are available. Boulder, CO 303-807-7398 info@baobaofoundation.org baobaofoundation.org

Cleo Parker Robinson Dance (CPRD)

Cleo Parker Robinson

A cultural ambassador, infusing vitality, innovation and education into every community they touch—around the corner and around the globe. Offers technique and movement classes for all ages and skill levels! From African to Hip Hop, Ballet to Zumba, online, and in-person. 119 Park Avenue West Denver, CO 80205 303-295-1759 cleoparkerdance.org

Davis Contemporary Dance Company

Terrell Davis

This is a contemporary dance organization formed to further dance education and the art of concert dance. Their mission is to enrich lives through the powerful language of dance. It is also to bring a greater awareness and provide access to dance to many diverse audience. The founder and Executive Director, Terrell Davis, danced with Cleo Parker Robinson for six years.

4814 E. Kentucky Avenue, Unit B Denver, CO 80246 303-641-6742 davisdanceco.com

Intergenerational Women’s African Dance and Drum Ensemble (IWADDE)

Senakhu Donald-Riddick

IWADDE is a Black women’s intergenerational African dance and drum group. Any age and ability is welcomed. The group was formed to create a space for women of

Dentists

Bright Smiles, Confident Futures

For a healthy smile that radiates confidence and well-being, connect with a compassionate Black dentist in Colorado who prioritizes your comfort and provides exceptional dental care for the whole family, ensuring a lifetime of excellent oral health.

HEALTH LITERACY

When selecting a dentist, keep these professional designations in mind:

DDS: Doctor of Dental Surgery

DMD: Doctor of Dental Medicine or Doctor of Medicine in Dentistry

Both undergo the same training and accreditation, and their qualifications are the same.

PC: Professional Corporation

The Challenges and Triumphs of Being a Black Nurse

My name is Laura Howard, and I am a BSN and RN. Reflecting on my 35 years in Nursing, I face the challenge of ensuring that patients of color receive equitable and inclusive care. All too often, our community knows of, heard about, or has personally experienced having our health concerns ignored by healthcare providers, such as managing pain, obtaining appropriate mental health care, and caring for our aging family members.

As a patient or a patient’s family member, you and your family deserve to be seen, heard, and treated with dignity and respect. As Black nurses, we continue to work on your behalf from the bedside to the legislative side.

Through Black professional Nursing organizations such as the Colorado Council of Black Nurses, Inc. (CCBN), where I serve as the Chair of the Social Action and Legislation Department, Black nurses are influential in the passing of laws such as the No Surprise Act, which requires hospitals and other care providers to inform you of what is being billed for upfront and makes it illegal for them to charge you more than your in-network costs, making healthcare more affordable for all.

Black nurses are influential in the passing of laws such as the No Surprise Act, which requires hospitals and other care providers to inform you of what is being billed for upfront and makes it illegal for them to charge you more than your in-network costs, making healthcare more affordable for all.

Our community deserves to see people who look like us and can relate to us when receiving care! If you would like to become a Nurse and impact the lives of our people in a positive way, as the current President of the Colorado Council of Black Nurses, Inc., I invite you to join our organization, where we provide community health education, offer free health screenings, and mentor fellow nurses, Nursing students, and those in nurse pathway careers.

We use our legislative voice to seek and secure:

• Environmental justice through our healthy air and water initiative,

• Justice for families through our maternal child health initiative,

• Justice for nurses in the development of safe nurse staffing ratios,

• Initiatives that demand proper health care for the incarcerated, and a

• Health care training initiative to reduce the chances of being re-incarcerated.

The triumph is building a healthier community with justice for all. Our lives depend on it!

Laura Howard, BSN, RN President Colorado Council of Black Nurses, Inc.

DENTISTS

Cecil Bottenbley, DMD

Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery

InnovAge

8405 W. Alameda Avenue Lakewood, CO 80226 720-974-5400 innovage.com

Rodrell Brown, DDS

Pediatric Dentistry

Kids Dental Pueblo 1022 Liberty Lane Pueblo, CO 81001 719-204-8675

familyandkidsdentalpueblo.com

 Medicaid/CHIP+

Kenneth G. Crichlow, DDS

General Dentistry

6795 E. Tennessee Avenue, #350 Denver, CO 80224

303-322-9501

Kojo Danso, DMD

Pediatric Dentistry

DH-Bernard F. Gipson, Sr. Eastside Family Health Center 501 28th Street Denver, CO 80205

303-436-4949

 Medicare/Medicaid

Andre Gillespie, DDS

Pediatric Dentistry

Li’l Teeth Dentistry

3464 N. Salida Street Aurora, CO 80011

303-307-9999 lilteeth.com

Falona Glenn, DDS

General Dentistry

Glenn’s Smile Center 2675 S. Abilene Street, #135 Aurora, CO 80014

303-751-6916

glennsmilecenter.com

 Medicare/Medicaid

Gerald Glenn, DDS

General Dentistry

Glenn’s Smile Center

2675 S. Abilene Street, #135 Aurora, CO 80014

303-751-6916

glennsmilecenter.com

 Medicare/Medicaid

Robert O. Greer, DDS

Professor and Chair, University of Colorado School of Dental Medicine

13065 E. 17th Avenue, Mail Stop F844 Aurora, CO 80045 303-724-6982 ucdenver.edu

Jonathan W. Hill, DDS

General Dentistry

Hill Dentistry

4711 Opus Drive, #120 Colorado Springs, CO 80906

719-540-3983

hilldentistry.com

Collis Johnson, DDS

Dental Professor, University of Colorado School of Dentistry

13065 E. 17th Street Aurora, CO 80045

303-724-6900

ucdenver.edu

Rhoda Lockett, DDS, PC Orthodontics

Lockett Orthodontics

3210 E. Woodmen Road, #200 Colorado Springs, CO 80920 719-309-6823

lockettorthodontics.com

 Medicare

Lawrence Musanje, DDS

Pediatric Dentistry

Bright Star Kids Dentistry 15200 E. 104th Avenue Commerce City, CO 80022 303-286-2679

shiningstarskidsdentistry.com

Sere S. Myers, Jr., DDS

Cosmetic & General Dentistry

Sere S. Myers Jr., D.D.S Dental Practice

14100 E. Arapahoe Road, #310 Centennial, CO 80112 303-699-5804 seremyersdentist.com

Artesha Porter, DDS

Pediatric Dentistry

Bright Star Kids Dentistry 15200 E. 104th Avenue Commerce City, CO 80022

303-286-2679 shiningstarskidsdentistry.com

Donald Rice, DDS

General Dentistry

7701 E. 1st Place, #B Denver, CO 80230 303-399-4444 donaldricedds.com  Medicare

Gary Sadler, DDS

General Dentistry

Comfort Dental 4450 W. 38th Avenue Denver, CO 80212 comfortdental.com

Desirea Scott, DDS

Orthodontics

Adventure Dental, Vision and Orthodontics

9333 E. Colfax Avenue Aurora, CO 80010 720-902-2035 mydentalvisioncare.com

 Medicaid/CHIP+

Girmachew Seyoum, DDS

General Dentistry

Denver Health 660 N. Bannock Street Pavilion L, Floor 7 Denver, CO 80204

303-436-4949

 Medicare/Medicaid/CHIP+

Amanda T. Taylor, DDS

General Dentistry

Smoky Hill Dental 18525 E. Smoky Hill Road, Ste. D Centennial, CO 80015 303-617-9090

 Medicare/Medicaid

David Webb, DDS

General Dentistry 1911 Lerarayt Street Colorado Springs, CO 80909

719-633-7774

 Medicare

Symone Webly, DDS

General Dentistry

Colorado Health Network

6260 E. Colfax Avenue Denver, CO 80220

303-863-0772

LaShica Young, DDS

Pediatric Dentistry

West Metro Pediatric Dentistry (Adventure Dental, Vision and Orthodontics)

15530 W. 64th Avenue, Ste. H Arvada, CO 80007

303-422-3746

 Medicaid/CHIP+

LaShica Young, DDS

Pediatric Dentistry

West Metro Pediatric Dentistry

7180 E. Orchards Road, Ste. 301 Centennial, CO 80111

303-422-3746

Joshua Zenon, DDS

General Dentistry

Gateway Park Family and Cosmetic Dentistry

3471 N. Salida Street, Ste. 60 Aurora, CO 80011

303-307-8282 gatewayparkdental.com

Doctors

Your Health, Your Trusted Partner

Your health journey deserves a partner who understands your unique needs and cultural background. Find culturally sensitive and patient-centered care from a diverse range of Black Primary Care physicians and specialists in Colorado, dedicated to empowering you to take control of your health.

The Key to Improving Health

“So why did you choose today to see a doctor?” It’s a question I often ask when a patient comes to the clinic who hasn’t been seen in years. The answers are all over the place. “My partner made me,” “I’m getting older, I know I need to have a regular check-up”, etc. Regardless of the reason, my answer is always the same. “I’m so glad you are here today!”

FAAFP Board Chair

University of Colorado Department of Family Medicine

Colorado Academy of Family Physicians

Social and Political Affects

Though seeing a physician or other health care professional is an incredibly important part of helping people be healthy, most people are surprised to learn that health care is one of the most minor factors impacting health.

The social and political determinants of health play the most significant role. Social determinants of health are the non-medical factors that influence health and recognize that conditions in which we work, live, grow, pray, etc., can all impact our health.

Political determinants of health recognize that policies, government action, and inaction also affect the social determinants of health. Systemic “isms” (racism, sexism, ableism, etc.), whether intentional or unintentional, are often built into our laws and decisions that can disproportionately impact the health of communities of color and generations of individuals.

One example is the high rate of asthma in the Black community. Black individuals living in areas of higher pollution and more densely populated housing are significant factors. This is due in large part to laws from decades ago when housing discrimination was legal, and fewer protections were in place to protect Black and Brown communities from highly polluting industries being near their housing.

Communities, relationships, and individual factors like genetics or views on health also influence health. Sometimes, these factors can be protective, while others can increase the risk of poorer health. We call this model the social-ecological model of health. To truly improve the health of patients and our communities, we must try to address multiple elements of the socialecological model.

We are increasingly using a team-based care approach, as sometimes the social worker, care manager, psychologist, lawyer, or clinical pharmacist is the most important member of a person’s healthcare team.

We are using a team-based care approach more and more, as sometimes, the social worker, care manager, psychologist, lawyer, or clinical pharmacist is the most important member of a person’s healthcare team.

See page 28 for remainder of article.

Cleveland Piggott, Jr., MD, MPH,

Though healthcare professionals must work hard to address these multiple factors, there are things you can all do at each level:

Societal/Policy Level: Support and vote for leaders and policies to improve health equity. So many factors directly or indirectly impact health. This includes climate change, housing, firearm violence, education, etc.

Community Level: Be active in a community/ organization you are passionate about. Not only is your local community an area where you can make changes, but it is also an area where you can find support!

Interpersonal/Relationships Level: Most of us have had some experience with the healthcare system, either positive or negative. If you have had a negative experience, many healthcare professionals truly want to partner with you, and I hope you’ll give us another chance!

Your relationship with friends and family is also incredibly important for your health. Investing in those healthy relationships is essential, and we can help support each other in prioritizing our health. Is there a friend or family member you want to encourage to schedule a visit with a healthcare professional?

Individual Level: Commit to prioritizing your health - mind, body, and spirit. Also, make sure you have a primary care provider (PCP). Set calendar reminders each year to schedule a visit with your PCP, as life can get so busy

Together, using the social-ecological model’s lens, we can close the gap in health disparities and improve the quality and quantity of life for our diverse communities.

Organizational Schools, workplaces, religious organizations

Interpersonal Family, friends, social networks

Knowledge, attitudes, skills

Navigating the Health Care System

With a growing number of people affected by chronic diseases, long-term conditions, and multimorbidity, patients’ healthcare needs have not only increased but also become more diverse and complex. Patients require not just various types of health services but also social care and community services.

As one of the first African Americans in the state to be registered as a Patient and Care Navigator, I have spent the last 15 years at Denver Health, supporting patients in navigating our healthcare system and accessing any additional services they may need to improve their health.

Over 30 Navigators at Denver Health spend each day helping our patients communicate with their healthcare providers so they get the information they need to make decisions about their healthcare. We also help patients set up doctor visits and schedule medical tests. In addition, we identify any barriers to meeting their healthcare needs, from housing to transportation to food, and work to remove those obstacles.

Our job is to meet patients where they are, work oneon-one with them to meet their needs, and stick with them throughout their hospital experience.

You Must Ask!

From my years of experience working with patients, I understand the anxiety that often comes with facing health issues. I also realize that working with medical professionals and our complex healthcare system can be daunting for many of us.

While hospitals may vary in their approach to offering support services, here are a few things to keep in mind and questions to raise for you or a loved one:

Ask your physician or medical specialist to assign a staff person to provide support.

• The patient’s doctor initiates the support services provided by Patient Navigators and Social Workers.

Be prepared to discuss your medical care coverage.

• Whether you have Medicaid, Medicare, or private insurance, the Patient Navigator can help with access to the benefits available to you.

Don’t hold back!

• Be honest about your needs, whether legal, financial, housing, transportation for medical appointments, etc. Patient Navigators have a network of organizations they can tap into and use to support their patients effectively.

Communicate

• As you continue to work with your Navigator, take on the responsibility of sharing any changes in your life that may occur as your treatment program progresses.

We know that racial, cultural, and socioeconomic disparities in access, utilization, and delivery of services are significant contributors to disparities in health outcomes. Patient Navigators and/or Social Workers play a unique role in improving health outcomes for racial and ethnic minorities.

Patient Navigators and/or Social Workers play a unique role in improving health outcomes for racial and ethnic minorities.

Through advocacy and care coordination, we can not only facilitate improved healthcare access and quality for underserved populations but also address deep-rooted issues related to distrust in providers and the health system that often lead to avoidance of health problems and non-compliance with treatment recommendations.

Stanley Thomas Patient & Care Navigator

Denver Health

Yisfalem W. Alamdew, MD Nephrology

CommonSpirit

9397 Crown Crest Boulevard, Ste. 401 Parker, CO 80138

303-697-1636 doctor.webmd.com

 Telehealth

 Medicare/Medicaid

Jandel Allen-Davis, MD

CEO and President

Craig Hospital 3425 S. Clarkson Street Englewood, CO 80113

303-789-8000 rehab@craighospital.org

 Medicare/Medicaid

Sasha Andrews, MD

Obstetrics and Gynecology

Obstetrix Medical Group

2055 High Street, Ste. 230 Denver, CO 80205

303-860-9990 pediatix.com

 Telehealth

 Medicare/Medicaid

Leslie Appiah, MD

Obstetrics/Gynecology

UCH Women’s Care Clinic 100 Cook Street, Ste. 312 Denver, CO 80206

720-848-1060 cumedicine.us

 Telehealth

 Medicare/Medicaid

Deborah Archer, MD Pediatrics

Kaiser Permanente - Longmont 2345 Bent Way Longmont, CO 80503

303-338-4545 kp.org

 Telehealth

 Medicare/Medicaid

Alfred Arline, MD

Family Medicine

Kaiser Permanente - Pueblo 3670 Parker Boulevard, Ste. 200 Pueblo, CO 81008

303-338-4545 healthy.kaiserpermanente.org

 Telehealth

 Medicare/Medicaid

Rachel Baiyee-Cady, DO

Family Medicine

UCH- Green Valley Ranch

4809 Argonne Street, #100 Denver, CO 80249

303-371-0330

uchealth.org

 Telehealth

 Medicare/Medicaid

Jeremiah Bartley, MD

Obstetrics/Gynecology

Rocky Mountain Internal Medicine

1360 S. Potomac Street Aurora, CO 80012

303-337-5575

multisite1.rmimpc.com

 Medicare/Medicaid

Franck Belibi, MD

Internal Medicine

Grace Health Clinic

3191 S. Vaughn Way, #101 Aurora, CO 80014

303-755-4600

graceclinicaurora.com

 Telehealth

 Medicare/Medicaid

Suzanne Belibi, MD

Pediatrics

Grace Health Clinic

3191 S. Vaughn Way, #101 Aurora, CO 80014

303-755-4600

graceclinicaurora.com

 Telehealth

 Medicare/Medicaid

Martine Bernard, MD

Neurology

Denver Health

660 Bannock Street, Paviliion L 5th Floor Denver, CO 80204

303-436-4949

denverhealth.org

 Telehealth

 Medicare/Medicaid

Ashley Biscoe, ND Naturopathic

Attune Functional Medicine

13654 Xavier Lane Ste. 202 Broomfield, CO 80023

720-807-0513

Lisa Blair Wynn, MD

Obstetrics and Gynecology

University of Colorado Obstetrics and Gynecology

1500 Park Central Drive, Ste. 302 Highlands Ranch, CO 80129

303-788-7888

cusouthmetroobgyn.com

 Telehealth

 Medicare

Gregory F. Bland, MD

Plastic Surgery

Center for Plastic Surgery

3920 N. Union Boulevard, Ste. 250 Colorado Springs, CO 80907

719-634-0107

blandmd.com

 Telehealth

Michael Rashad Booker, MD Orthopedics

Kaiser Permanente - Franklin 2045 Franklin Street Denver, CO 80015

303-338-4545

kp.org

 Telehealth

 Medicare/Medicaid

Lesley Brooks, MD

Family Medicine/Addiction Medicine Chief Medical Officer

Behavioral Health Services at Longview

4856 Innovation Drive, Ste. B Fort Collins, CO 80525 970-494-4200

 Telehealth

Regina Brown, MD Medical Oncology

UC Health Med Center 9548 Park Meadows Drive Lone Tree, CO 80124

720-848-2200

uchealth.org

 Medicare

Mesha-Gay Brown, MD Neurology

Advent Health Medical Group

7780 S. Broadway, Ste. 350 Littleton, CO 80122

303-730-4400

adventhealth.com

 Telehealth

 Medicare

Vaughn Browne, MD, PhD

Associate Professor of Emergency Medicine

University of Colorado School of Medicine

Anschutz Medical Campus Leprino Building Campus Box B21512401 East 17th Avenue Aurora, CO 80045 720-848-8200 vaughn.browne@ucdenver.edu ucdenver.edu

 Medicare

Sandra Bruno-Meyappan, MD

Pediatrics

Kaiser Permanente 7701 Sheridan Boulevard Westminster, CO 80003

303-338-4545 kp.org

 Telehealth

 Medicare/Medicaid

Shawnecca Burke, MD

Family Medicine

Denver Health - Sloans Lake

Primary Care Center

4007 W. Colfax Avenue Denver, CO 80204

303-602-5900 denverhealth.org

 Telehealth

 Medicare/Medicaid

Alexis Carrington, MD

Addiction Medicine

Kaiser Permanente 10350 E. Dakota Avenue Denver, CO 80003 303-338-4545 kp.org

 Telehealth

 Medicare/Medicaid

Debbie Carter, MD

Child & Adolescent Psychiatry

Children’s Hospital Colorado

Anschutz Medical Campus 13123 E. 16th Avenue Aurora, CO 80045 720-777-1234 cumedicine.us

 Telehealth

 Medicare/Medicaid

Rochelle Cason-Wilkerson, MD

Pediatrics

Children’s Hospital

Anschutz Medical Campus

13123 East 16th Avenue

Aurora, CO 80045

720-777-2691

childrenscolorado.org

 Telehealth

 Medicare/Medicaid

Jennifer Christie, MD

Gastroenterology, Director, Professor of Medicine

University of Colorado

Anschutz Medical Campus 1635 N. Aurora Court

Aurora, CO 80045

720-848-2777

medschool.cuanschutz.edu

 Telehealth

 Medicare/Medicaid

Shaleah Dardar, MD

Psychiatry

UCH Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora 132123 E. 16th Avenue Aurora, CO 80045

720-777-6200

childrenscolorado.org

 Telehealth

 Medicare/Medicaid

Morgan Deal, MD

Psychiatry

CMI at Fort Logan 1300 E. 17th Avenue, Bldg 500 Aurora, CO 80045

720-848-0000

cdhs.colorado.gov

 Medicare/Medicaid

Amira Del Pino-Jones, MD

Internal Medicine

Assistant Professor of Medicine

CU Division of Hospital Medicine

Anschutz Medical Campus 12401 E. 17th Avenue

Aurora, CO 80046

720-848-4289

ucdenver.edu

 Medicare

Temitope M. Dimmer, MD

Pediatrics

Kaiser Permanente 112455 Huron Street Westminster, CO 80234

303-388-4545

kp.org

 Telehealth

 Medicare/Medicaid

William Edwards, MD

Pediatrics

Littleton Hospital Campus

7780 S. Broadway Street, Ste. 220 Littleton, CO 80122

303-795-2345

childrenscolorado.org

 Medicare/Medicaid

Lovett E. Elango, MD

Family Medicine

Kaiser Permanente - Englewood 2955 S. Broadway Street Englewood, CO 80113

303-338-4545

kp.org

 Telehealth

 Medicare/Medicaid

Ifeoma R. Eleazu, MD

Family Medicine

Kaiser Permanente - East 10400 Alameda Avenue Denver, CO 80247

303-338-4545

kp.org

 Medicare/Medicaid

Erica N. Elzey, MD

Pediatrics

Kaiser Permanente 8383 W. Alameda Avenue Lakewood, CO 80226

303-338-4545

kp.org

 Telehealth

 Medicare/Medicaid

Alexander Enurah, MD

Internal Medicine/Critical Care & Pulmonary Consultant

Common Spirit

5200 DTC Parkway, Ste. 400 Greenwood Village, CO 80111

303-745-0000

ccpcmd.com

 Medicare

Chijioke Enweluzo, MD Gastroenterology

Common Spirit - Durango 1010 Three Springs Blvd, Ste. 270 Durango, CO 81301 970-764-3800 mountain.commonspirit.org

 Telehealth

 Medicare/Medicaid

Curtis Ford, MD

Pediatrics - Child Protection Team

Children’s Hospital Anschutz Medical Campus 13123 E. 16th Avenue Aurora, CO 80045 720-777-6919 childrenscolorado.org

 Telehealth

 Medicare/Medicaid

Henry James Frazier, MD Anesthesiology

Kaiser Permanente

280 Exempla Circle Lafayette, CO 80026

303-338-4545 kp.org

 Telehealth

 Medicare/Medicaid

Brandi Freeman, MD

Pediatrics

Children’s Hospital

Anschutz Medical Campus 13123 East 16th Avenue Aurora, CO 80045

720-777-2740 childrenscolorado.org

 Telehealth

 Medicare/Medicaid

Ozioma Thelma Gab-Ojukwu, MD Family Medicine

Kaiser Permanente - Aurora Centrepoint 14701 E. Exposition Avenue Aurora, CO 80014

303-338-4545 kp.org

 Telehealth

 Medicare/Medicaid

Anne Garrett Mills, MD Psychiatry

Aurora Mental Health Center

791 Chambers Road Aurora, CO 80011

303-617-2300 auroramhr.org

 Telehealth

 Medicare

Haftu K. Gebrehiwot, MD Family Medicine

Romnat Clinic, Inc 11275 E. Mississippi Aurora, CO 80012

303-388-4545 romanatclinic.org haftug@yahoo.com

 Telehealth

 Medicaid

Nsangou Ghogomu, MD

Head and Neck Surgery, Ear, Nose, and Throat

Kaiser Permanente 2045 Franklin Street Denver, CO 80205

-388-4545 kp.org

 Telehealth

 Medicare/Medicaid

Marsha K. Guess, MD, MS Urogynecology

University of Colorado Hospital 9548 Park Meadows Drive Lone Tree, CO 80124 720-848-2200 urogyn.coloradowomenshealth.com

 Telehealth

 Medicare

Valerie Hale, MD Radiology

National Jewish Health 1400 Jackson Street Denver, CO 80206 303-388-4461 nationaljewish.org

 Medicare

Kweku Hazel, MD

Metabolic Surgery

UC Health Surgical Weight Loss

Center Anschutz Medical Campus

1635 Aurora Court, Outpatient Pavilion 6th Floor Aurora, CO 80045

720-848-2070 cumedicine.us

 Telehealth

 Medicare/Medicaid

Kamal Henderson, MD Cardiology

VA Eastern Colorado Health Care 1700 N. Wheeling Street Aurora, CO 80045

303-399-8020 va.gov

 Telehealth

 Medicare/Medicaid

Jerrell W. Herod, MD Cardiology

Aurora Denver Cardiology Associates 10103 RidgeGate Parkway, Ste. 103 Lone Tree, CO 80124

303-645-0090 adcacardiology.com

 Telehealth

 Medicare

Renee King, MD Emergency Medicine

Denver Health

777 Bannock Street, Pavilion A Denver, CO 80204

303-436-4949

denverhealth.org

 Telehealth

 Medicare/Medicaid

Waymon Lattimore, MD Gastroenterology

Common Spirit - Durango 1010 Three Springs Blvd, Ste. 270 Durango, CO 81301 970-764-3800

mountain.commonspirit.org

 Telehealth

 Medicare/Medicaid

Frank Laws, MD Cardiology

Heart and Vascular Center, Valley View

1906 Blake Avenue

Glenwood Springs, CO 81601

970-384-7290

fixafib.com

 Telehealth

 Medicare

Charles Leonard, MD

Radiation Oncology

Littleton Radiation 22 W. Dry Creek Circle Littleton, CO 80120

720-730-4700

rockymountaincancercenters.com

 Telehealth

 Medicare/Medicaid

Gabriel Lockhart, MD

Pulmonary, Assistant Professor, Director ICU SJH

National Jewish 1400 Jackson Street Denver, CO 80206

303-552-2390 nationljewish.org

 Telehealth

 Medicare/Medicaid

Jason McGowan, MD Neurosurgery

Common Spirit - Lakewood 11750 West 2nd Place, Ste. 255 Lakewood, CO 80228

720-638-7500

neurosurgeryone.com

 Medicare/Medicaid

Sophia G. Meharena, DO Pediatrics

Every Child Pediatrics 1550 South Potomac, Ste. 130 Aurora, CO 80012

303-360-8111 everychildpediatrics.org

 Telehealth

 Medicare/Medicaid

Randy Miles, MD Radiology

Denver Health

660 Bannock Street, Pavilion L, Floor 1 Denver, CO 80204

303-436-4949 denverhealth.org

 Telehealth

 Medicare/Medicaid

Misha Miller, MD

Dermatology/Moh’s Surgery

Advanced Dermatology Skin Cancer and Laser Surgery Center

1665 Aurora Court, 3rd Floor Aurora, CO 80045

720-848-0500

uchealth.org

 Telehealth

 Medicare/Medicaid

Phil Mitchell, MD, M.S.

Emergency Medicine

Parker Adventist Hospital 9395 Crown Crest Boulevard Parker, CO 80138

303-269-4000

adventhealth.com

 Medicare/Medicaid

Terri L. Montague, MD

Nephrology

Intermountain Health

5265 Vance Street Arvada, CO 80002

303-232-3366

intermountainhealthcare.org

 Telehealth

 Medicare

Sammie Moss, MD Psychiatry Kaiser Permanente

10350 E. Dakota Avenue, Suite B Denver, CO 80247

303-471-7700

healthy.kaiserpermanente.org

 Telehealth

 Medicare/Medicaid

Rodney Muhammad, MD Family Medicine

3GMC And Fountain Valley Therapeutic Clinic

417 Security Boulevard Colorado Springs, CO 80911

719-368-6628 patientfusion.com/doctor/ rodney-muhammad-do-92025

 Telehealth

 Medicare

Aqeel Muhammad, MD, MBA

Psychiatry

Highlands Behavioral Health 8565 Poplar Way Littleton, CO 80130 720-348-2800

highlandsbhs.com

aquedmuhammad227@hotmail.com

 Telehealth

 Medicare

Mark Murray, MD

Neurology

Common Spirit

2222 N. Nevada Avenue, Ste. 5001 Colorado Springs, CO 80907 719-776-3580

mountaincommonspirit.org

 Telehealth

 Medicare

Tashinga Musonza, MD

General Surgery, Bariatric Surgery

CommonSpirit - Colorado Springs

Surgical Associates Penrose 2222 N. Nevada Avenue

Colorado Springs, CO 80907 719-776-6810

mountain.commonspirit.org

 Telehealth

 Medicare

Gabrielle Mykoniatis, MD

Internal Medicine

Kaiser Permanente East 10400 East Alameda Avenue Denver, CO 80247

303-338-4545

kp.org

 Telehealth

 Medicare/Medicaid

Alfred (Ered) Nash, MD Family Medicine

Patients First Medical 2121 S. Blackhawk Street Aurora, CO 80014

303-353-2530 auroramed.com

 Medicare/Medicaid

Romano Nweke, MD

Internal Medicine

Destiny Internal Medicine

1550 S. Potomac, Ste. 110 Aurora, CO 80012

720-324-4777

destinyimpc.com

 Telehealth

 Medicare/Medicaid

Grace Nweke, MD

Internal Medicine

Sunrise Health Care, PC

4020 Palmer Park Blvd, Ste. 101-B

Colorado Springs, CO 80909

719-577-9977 sunrisehlthcare.com

 Medicare/Medicaid

Chima Nwizu, MD

Family Medicine Center for Weight Loss and Cholesterol Management

6801 W. 20th Street, Unit 101 Greeley, CO 80634 970-378-8000

weightclinicatfpgreeley.com

 Telehealth

Oluyomi Obafemi, MD

Public Health, Infectious Disease

Denver Health/Sexual Health Clinic

660 Bannock Street, Pavilion L, Floor 2 Denver, CO 80204

303-436-4949

denverhealth.org

 Telehealth

 Medicare/Medicaid

Augustine Obinnah, MD

Internal Medicine

UC Health Primary Care - Green Valley Ranch

4809 Argonne Street, Ste. 100 Denver, CO 80249

303 -371-0330 auroramed.com

 Telehealth

 Medicare/Medicaid

Kingsley Okafor, MD Ophthalmologist

Colorado Ophthalmology Associates, P.C.

3801 E. Florida Avenue, Ste. 720 Denver, CO 80210

303-320-1777 coloradoopthalmology.com

 Telehealth

 Medicare

Joseph C. Onyiah, MD

Gastroenterology

Rocky Mountain Va Medical Center 1055 Clermont Street Denver, CO 80220

303-399-8020

va.gov

 Medicare/Medicaid

Ndudi Oparaeche, MD Rheumatology

South Denver Rheumatology

9570 S. Kingston Court, Ste. 220 Englewood, CO 80112

303-515-2912

southdenverrheumatology.com

 Telehealth

 Medicaid

Dawn Owens-Robinson, MD Obstetrics/Gynecology

Advent Health Medical Group

OB/GYN

7233 Church Ranch Boulevard

Westminster CO 80021

80 Health Park Drive, Ste. 270 Louisville, CO 80027

303-649-3180

medicalnewstoday.com

 Telehealth

 Medicare

Herbert Parris, MD

Family Medicine

Ageless Aesthetics

Medicine Skin Care Clinic

300 S. Jackson Street, Ste. 230 Denver, CO 80209

303-320-1515

 Telehealth

William Peace, MD Orthopedic Surgery

Panorama Orthopedics and Spine Center

660 Golden Ridge Road, Ste. 250 Golden, CO 80401

303-233-1223

panoramaortho.com wpeace@panoramaortho.com

 Medicare/Medicaid

Cleveland Piggott, Jr., MD, MPH

Assistant Professor, Family Medicine

UCH - A.F. Williams Family Medicine Center at Stapleton 3055 Roslyn Street, Ste. 100 Denver, CO 80238

720-848-9000

ucdenver.edu

 Telehealth

 Medicare/Medicaid

Raynaria Pitts, MD

Cardiology

Aurora Denver Cadiology AssociatesThornton 9195 Grant Street, Ste. 200 Thornton, CO 80229

303-252-0104 adcacardiology.com

 Medicare/Medicaid

Jennifer Price, MD Obstetrics and Gynecology

Kaiser Permanente 14701 E. Exposition Avenue Aurora, CO 80012 303-338-4545 kp.org

 Medicare/Medicaid

Sharman Reed, MD Obstetrics and Gynecology

Kaiser Permanente 8383 W. Alameda Avenue Lakewood, CO 80226

303-338-4545 kp.org

 Telehealth

 Medicare/Medicaid

Terri Richardson, MD

Internal Medicine (Retired) Aurora, CO 80014 info@coloradoblackhealth.org kp.org

Kelet Robinson, MD Medical Director

Aurora Wellness Community Clinic 12605 E. 16th Avenue Aurora, CO 80045 720-848-0000 ourawc.health info@ourawc.health

Paul J. Rochen, MD

Diagnostic, Vascular, and Interventional radiology

American Vein and Vascular Institute 9441 Huron Street Thornton, CO 80260 720-446-5000

americanvein.com

 Telehealth

 Medicare/Medicaid

Dana Roper-Cooper, MD

Obstetrics and Gynecology

Essential Woman’s Clinic

1960 N. Ogden Street, Ste. 230 Denver, CO 80218

303-318-3540

 Telehealth

 Medicaid

Maurice Roulhac, MD Vascular Surgery

United Vein Vascular Centers 9195 Grant Street Thornton, CO 80229 866-231-8423 unitedveincenters.com

 Medicaid

Asela Russell, MD

Obstetrics and Gynecology Center for Women’s Health 2352 Meadows Boulevard, Ste. 120 Castle Rock, CO 80109

303-755-0120

tc4w.com

 Telehealth

Deborah Saint-Phard, MD Director of CU Women’s Sports Medicine

University of Colorado Sports Medicine

2000 S. Colorado Boulevard Tower One, Ste. 4500 Denver, CO 80222

720-848-8200 ucdenver.edu

deborah.saint-phard@ucdenver.edu

 Telehealth

 Medicare/Medicaid

Maurice Scott, MD Family Medicine - Palliative Care

UC Health 12605 E. 16th Avenue Aurora, CO 80045

720-848-6799 uchealth.org

 Telehealth

 Medicare/Medicaid

Amen Sergew, MD

Pulmonologist

National Jewish Health

1400 Jackson Street Denver, CO 80206

720-848-8200

nationaljewish.org/doctorsdepartments/providers/physicians/ amen-sergew?gl=sergewa amen.sergew@gmail.com

 Telehealth

 Medicare/Medicaid

Gary Simpson, DO Orthopedic Surgery

Common Spirit Colorado Springs Orthopaedic Group

4110 Briargate Parkway, Ste. 300 Colorado Springs, CO 80920

719-632-7669

mountain.commonspirit.org

 Telehealth

 Medicare

Lanette Stewart, MD

Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine

Denver Health

777 Bannock Street, Pavilion A Denver, CO 80204

303-436-4949

denverhealth.org

 Telehealth

 Medicare/Medicaid

Francis Thompson, MD Family Medicine

VA Eastern Colorado Health Care System

1700 N. Wheeling Street Aurora, CO 80045

720-357-5283

va.gov

 Telehealth

 Medicare/Medicaid

Cherriese Thompson, MD

Family Medicine

DH - Parkhill Family Health Center 4995 E. 33rd Avenue Denver, CO 80207

303-602-3720

 Telehealth

 Medicare/Medicaid

Breanna Tomlin, MD

Obsterics and Gynecology

Clinica Family Health

1735 South Public Road, 1st Floor Lafayette, CO 80026

303-650-4460

clinica.org

 Telehealth

 Medicare/Medicaid

Natalia Tucker, MD

Family Medicine

DH -Parkhill Family Health Center

4995 E. 33rd Avenue Denver, CO 80207

303-602-3720

 Telehealth

 Medicare/Medicaid

Brenda Walker-Conner, MD

Family Medicine

Tutt Lifecenter

6945 Tutt Blvd Colorado Springs, CO 80923

719-380-7325

paladinahealth.com

 Telehealth

Spencer Walker, MD Family Medicine

Advent Health Primary Care

7720 S. Broadway, Ste. 350 Littleton, CO 80122

720-528-3559

adventhealth.com

 Telehealth

 Medicare/Medicaid

Erik Wallace, MD, FACP

Primary Care - Internal Medicine

Oak Street Health

2877 East Fountain Boulevard Colorado Springs, CO 80908

719-493-9903

740 Peoria Street Aurora, CO 80011

720-893-4379

oakstreethealth.com

 Telehealth

 Medicare/Medicaid

Jacqueline Ward-Gaines, MD

Emergency Medicine

UCH Health

12505 East 16th Avenue, 1st floor

Anschutz Inpatient Pavilion 2 Aurora, CO 80045

720-848-9111

uchealth.org

 Telehealth

 Medicare/Medicaid

Christopher Washington, MD

Vascular Surgeon

Kaiser Permanente

2045 Franklin Denver, CO 80205

303-338-4545

kp.org

 Telehealth

 Medicare/Medicaid

Kia Washington, MD

Associate Professor, Surgery-Plastic/ Reconstructive University of Colorado Department of Surgery 1635 Aurora Court,6th Floor Aurora, CO 80045

720-848-0800

ucdenver.edu

 Telehealth

 Medicare/Medicaid

Gabrielle Whitmore, MD

Obstetrics/Gynecology

UCH Womens Care ClinicCentral Park 3055 Roslyn Street, Unit 230 Denver, CO 80238

720-553-2850

obgyn.coloradowomenshealth.com

 Telehealth

 Medicare/Medicaid

Tiffany Wilson, MD

Obstetrics/Gynecology

Common Spirit St. Anthony North Hospital 14300 Orchard Parkway Westminster, CO 80023

720-627-0000

mountain.commonspirit.org

 Medicare/Medicaid

Asa Yancey Jr., MD

Psychiatry Child and Adolescent Private Practice

7400 E. Arapahoe Road Ste. 304 Centennial, CO 80112

303-740-0400

asagyanceyjrpsychiatrist.com

 Telehealth

Mengistu Yemane, MD Internal Medicine

Kaiser Permanente - Franklin 1375 E. 20th Avenue Denver, CO 80205

303-338-4545

kp.org

 Telehealth

 Medicare/Medicaid

Michael Young, MD Family Medicine

Denver Wellness and Asthetics Center

6179 S. Balsam Way, Ste. 210 Littleton, CO 80123

303-347-2000

mdvip.com

 Medicare/Medicaid

Johnny Johnson, MD

Obstetrics and Gynecology (Retired)

Mile High Medical Society milehighmedicalsociety.org Denver, CO 80230

303-261-3825

Faith & Health Ministries

Nurturing Mind, Body, and Spirit in Colorado

Find strength and solace in the intersection of faith and health. This section highlights local ministries that offer spiritual guidance, support groups, and resources to promote holistic well-being within the Black community.

The Intersection of Faith and Health in the Black Community

Faith and health have had a complicated co-existence within the Black community for generations. Since slavery, faith has been an anchor of strength and resilience, providing hope and endurance amidst adversity.

However, alongside this steadfast faith, a new diet was emerging. Soul food posed a significant health challenge. While America had the same or similar staple foods native to Africa, such as yams, black-eyed peas, and okra, restrictions to resources led enslaved Blacks to make unhealthy adaptations to their cooking methods. Adaptations included frying and boiling foods while adding fat, sugar, and salt. We know now what our ancestors did not know: nutritionally poor diets increase our risk of developing chronic diseases such as hypertension, diabetes, heart disease, obesity, and cancer.

Distrust of Healthcare Systems

Further compounding the health issues our soul food diet presented was a distrust of healthcare systems and institutions. A distrust perpetuated by the abuse and inhumane treatment of Blacks from the Tuskegee Experiment to the “father of gynecology” who performed surgical experiments on enslaved Black women without anesthesia. This deep mistrust led our ancestors to lean into common affirmations like “ God’s got me” and “I’m not claiming that.”

Now, it’s true that God is always in control. However, these affirmations reflect a complex perspective on faith and healing. While trusting in God, we sometimes fail to use the agency God expects. James 2:26 reads, “For as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without

works is dead also.” Our bodies are the temple of the Holy Spirit, and God expects that we embrace a healthy lifestyle to care for that temple. That requires we make healthy food choices, practice daily movement, and manage our health through preventative screenings to increase the chance of early detection and better health outcomes.

Our bodies are the temple of the Holy Spirit, and God expects that we embrace a healthy lifestyle to care for that temple.

A significant facet of Jesus’ ministry was performing healing miracles, emphasizing spiritual and physical well-being. Through their skills and knowledge, God has provided us with medical professionals who serve as vessels of His healing grace. So, faith and health do not have to be at odds.

Ultimately, the intersection of faith and health in the Black community is a profound journey. It encompasses resilience, cultural heritage, dietary challenges, and the nuanced understanding that God desires us to act out our faith by taking proactive steps toward our health and wellness.

Shirika Cousin Chair

New Hope Baptist Church Health and Wellness Ministry

Agape Christian Church 2501 California Street Denver, CO 80205 303-296-2454 agapechurch.org

Agape Missionary Baptist Church 1590 Chester Street Aurora, CO 80010 720-802-6490 agapemissionarychurch.org

Antioch Church of GOD in CHRIST 6825 E. 26th Avenue Denver, CO 80207 303-377-3275 antiochcogicdenver.com

Berean Bible Church 1400 Birch Street Denver, CO 80220 303-329-0409 bereanbibledenver.org

Christ’s Church Apostolic 14007 E. 22nd Avenue Aurora, CO 80011 303-340-3520 christchurchapostolic.com

Campbell Chapel A.M.E. Church 1500 E. 22nd Avenue Denver, CO 80205 303-839-5058 campbelldenver.org

Church of the Holy Redeemer (Episcopal)

2552 Williams Street Denver, CO 80205 303-831-8963 holyredeemerdenver@gmail.com

Cleaves Memorial C.M.E. Church 2222 Marion Street Denver, CO 80205 720-579-3985 cleavesmemorialdenver.org

Colorado Christian Fellowship 14401 E. Exposition Avenue Aurora, CO 80012 303-369-7105

2076 Jet Wing Drive Colorado Springs, CO 80916 719-418-6983 ccfyourhome.org

Cure D’ Ars Catholic Church 3201 Dahlia Street Denver, CO 80207 303-322-1119 curedarschurch.org

Emmanuel Missionary Baptist Church 3615 Vickers Drive Colorado Springs, CO 80918 719-635-4865

1 S. Walnut Street Colorado Springs, CO 80905 719-375-0814 godiswithus.org

Faith Community Baptist Church 9520 E. Jewell Avenue Denver, CO 80247

303-873-9622 fcbcdenver.org

First A.M.E Church 613 W. Mesa Avenue Pueblo, CO 81004 719-544-8125 firstamepueblo@gmail.com

For His Glory Christian Fellowship 14281 E. Exposition Avenue Aurora, CO 80012 303-364-0344 fhg1.org

Friendship Baptist Church of Christ Jesus 880 Fairfax Street Denver, CO 80220 303-321-5529 fbccj.org

Grace & Truth Full Gospel Pentecostal 2929 E. 28th Avenue Denver, CO 80205 303-321-2417 graceandtruthfgp.org

Grace Christian Center 12505 Elmendorf Place Denver, CO 80239 303-576-8580 gcc49@yahoo.com gracechristiancenterdenver.weebly. com

Graham Memorial Community COGIC 6610 E. 72nd Place Commerce City, CO 80022 303-393-1333 grahammemorialchurch@gmail.com

Greater St. John Baptist Church 1312 Uinta Street Denver, CO 80220 303-399-4163

Harvest Church 3590 Grape Street Denver, CO 80207 800-928-0585 harvestchurch.church

House of JoyMiracle Deliverance Church 3082 Leyden Street Denver, CO 80207 303-388-9060 houseofjoydenver.org

King Baptist Church 3370 Ivy Street Denver, CO 80207 303-388-3248 kingbaptist.org

Jordan African Methodist Episcopal Church 2900 Milwaukee Street Denver, CO 80205 303-322-7427 admin@jordanchapel.com

Leak Memorial Methodist Church 1300 Iola Street Aurora, CO 80010 303-343-2815

Living Hope Bible Church 105 S. Moline Street Aurora, CO 80012 303-366-1471 livinghopebapist.net

Living Water Christian Center 1585 Kingston Street Aurora, CO 80010 720-366-1311

Lowry Community Christian Church 855 Yosemite Street Denver, CO 80230 303-364-7146 info@lowrychurch.org lowrychurch.org

Macedonia Baptist Church 3240 Adams Street Denver, CO 80205 303-377-8821 macedoniadenver.org

Masjid Tagwa Northeast Denver Islamic Center 3400 Albion Street Denver, CO 80207 northeastdenverislamiccenter.com

New Covenant Christian ChurchAlpha Omega Ministries Disciples of Christ 119 Park Avenue West Denver, CO 80205 303-907-1337 newcovenantchristianchurchdenver. com

New Hope Baptist Church 3701 Colorado Blvd Denver, CO 80205 303-322-5200 newhopehurchdenver.org

Now Faith Christian Center Church Virtual 10 a.m. Metro Denver, CO 720-591-6955 nowfaithdenver.com

Park Hill Seventh Day Adventist Church 3385 Albion Street Denver, CO 80207 303-333-5089 denverparkhillsda.org

Payne Chapel A.M.E Church 3625 Marion Drive Colorado Springs, CO 80909 719-358-9314 payneameoffice@yahoo.com

Peaceful Rest Baptist Church 1195 Lima Street Aurora, CO 80010 303-364-4100 peacefulrest.org

People’s Presbyterian Church 2780 York Street Denver, CO 80205 303-297-9071 peoplespres.org

Rising Star Missionary Baptist Church 1596 S. Dayton Street Denver, CO 80231 303-752-0546 risingstarmbchurch.org

Scott United Methodist Church 2880 Garfield Street Denver, CO 80205 303-322-8967 pastorgray@scottumc-denver.org scottumc-denver.org

Second Baptist Church 5300 Baseline Road Boulder, CO 80303 303-499-4668 familycare@sbcboulder.com

Shiloh Missionary Baptist Church 3301 Leyden Street Denver, CO 80205 303-322-5983 shiloh-baptist.net

Shorter Community A.M.E. Church

3100 Richard Allen Court Denver, CO 80205 303-320-1712 shorterame.org

Solomon Temple Missionary Baptist Church 3880 Elm Street Denver, CO 80207 303-377-2249 info@solomontemplembc.org solomontemplembc.org

Solid Rock Baptist Church 3250 E. 28th Avenue Denver, CO 80205 303-270-9064

St. Luke Christian Methodist Episcopal Church 3444 Madison Street Denver, CO 80205 303-329-0079 st.luke.cme@gmail.com

True Light Baptist Church 14333 Bolling Drive Denver, CO 80239 303-375-0754 truelightonline.org

Union Chapel Missionary Baptist Church 12243 Andrews Drive Denver, CO 80239 303-295-2144 unionchapelmbc@yahoo.com

United Church of Montbello 4879 Crown Blvd. Denver, CO 80239 303-373-0070 ucmonbello.org

Unity C.O.G.I.C 2428 Ogden Street Denver, CO 80205 303-837-8411 unitycogicdenver.org

Zion Baptist Church 933 E. 24th Avenue Denver, CO 80205 303-861-4958 zionbaptistchurchdenver.org

Zion Temple Church 1600 Syracuse Street Denver, CO 80220 303-355-0588 ziontemplechurch.org

Fitness & Recreation

Get Active, Stay Healthy, Thrive

Your journey to wellness starts here. Discover fitness and recreation options designed for the Black community in Colorado. Find gyms, trainers, and programs that inspire you to achieve your goals, embrace an active lifestyle, and celebrate the power of movement.

We Need to Find a Way to

As Black communities continue to heal and repair themselves from past traumas and generational curses, physical fitness, and movement continue to be one of the best ways to increase our mental health and physical vitality and a pathway to living longer and more productive lives in 2024 and beyond!

With all this being true, some of us still struggle with breaking the idea of the reality of “not having enough time” and not being able to break the cycle of everyday life to fit something like working out, physical activity, or a mobility/flexibility routine consistently. Everyone has something they can put in front of something, like physical activity, as we see it as a luxury or an either-or decision.

What can we do to help more people understand that physical activity is a part of this Health and Wellness Equation?

Before we go over possible steps to help us reimagine the importance that physical activity has on our everyday lives, let’s look at some real-life facts and statistics based on where the Black community is currently regarding our health and wellness:

• Black Americans have some of the highest risks of developing several chronic diseases in comparison to their white counterparts, specifically heart disease, stroke, asthma, and various types of cancer.

• In addition, some of the unique barriers for African Americans include family responsibilities, body image perception, and even hair care concerns, particularly for Black women, when working out. Moreover, environmental and public safety challenges facing some Black communities, such as pollution and violence, make it difficult for many residents even to walk or run in their neighborhoods.

Move!

• Black women represent a disproportionate percentage of health diagnoses, including obesity, diabetes, and heart disease.

• About 38% of Black women versus 23% of non-Hispanic white women report little or no participation in leisure-time physical activity Consequently, this population is burdened with high risk and prevalence of chronic diseases.

It takes 90 days to build a lifestyle and 20 days to build a habit!

Exercise and Chronic Disease of the Body

There are four elimination processes that the body goes through when getting rid of toxins:

1. Sweating (Perspiration): Our skin is the second kidney, so sweating through movement exercise will help the body eliminate toxins.

2. Breathing (Respiration): Deep diaphragmatic breathing helps eliminate stress and inflammation.

3. Going to The Bathroom (Urination): Drinking enough water and electrolytes will help support the body’s biochemical and metabolic functions.

4. Going to the Bathroom (Defecation): Eating foods high in fiber, plus fresh vegetables and fruit juices high in nutrient value, is easy for digestion and gives your body the valuable nutrients it needs to feel and look healthy year-round.

With this information, physical activity and movement can be reimagined as a way to eliminate toxins and rid the body of disease!

Start the habit by picking some activity you are interested in and would enjoy. You don’t have to spend any money on fitness; it’s free for us all. You just have to get started!

Thal Woods Sports Performance Director Athletics & Beyond

A1 Boxing and Fitness

Glenn Goodson

Boxing and Fitness

700 S. Buckley Road Aurora, CO 80016 720-600-4984 a1boxingfitness.com

Athletics & Beyond

Thal Woods Fitness, Student Athlete Program 4990 Nome Street, Unit C Denver, CO 80239 720-845-1712 aabwellness4990@gmail.com

Bodies by Perseverance

Courtney Samuels

3030 N. Downing Street Denver, CO 80205

2493 Dallas Street - Stanley Marketplace Aurora, CO 802010 303-506-3253 mybbp.com

Body Shaping Company

Demetrius Simpson

Body Shaping/Fitness

1998 N. Downing Street, Ste. B Denver, CO 80218 303-831-0777 bodyshapingco.com

Cole Fusion Fitness

Frankie Cole Fitness 1100 Bannock Street Denver, CO 80204 303-757-3328 colefusionfitness.com

Fit & Nu

Joslyn Reese & Brittney Reese Aurora, CO 720-734-8687 fitandnu.com

GirlTrek

Morgan Dixon & Vanessa Garrison

Walking for Healing and Liberation 720-202-8175 girltrekdenver@gmail.com girltrek.org

J5 Strength & Conditioning

Jason Vaughn Fitness

10525 E. 40th Avenue, Unit 201 Denver, CO 80239 720-441-3554 j5sc.com

Major Taylor Cycling Club Of Denver Denver, CO 720-403-6801 majortaylorcyclingclubofdenver@ gmail.com

Master Yosvany Taekwondo Academy

Master Yosvany Martial Arts, Taekwondo 18601 E.Green Valley Ranch Boulevard, Unit 104 Denver, CO 80249 303-552-1153 mytkda1@gmail.com yosvanykd.com

Midas Touch Movement

Brandon Kelley Personal Training 2300 Welton Street Denver, CO 80205 303-257-7772 beingbk@gmail com facebook.com/ midastouchmovementclub

Mindfulness Meditation Solwazi Johnson Meditation, Mindfulness 720-220-8660 denverguy57@gmail.com

Naturally Defined Fitness

Blenda Cooper Fitness, Nutrition and Wellness 8200 E. Pacific Place, Unit 208 Denver, CO 80231 303-503-9335 naturallydefinedfitness@gmail.com

Niks Performance

Gym/Physical Fitness 1338 S. Valentia Denver, CO 80247 720-338-6992 npgyminfo@gmail.com niksperformamce.com

Outdoor Afro Colorado Rue Mapp outdoorafro.org/places/west

Rad Muay Thai Martial Arts & Fitness

Krufessor Rad Martial Arts & Fitness 1278 S. Abilene Street Aurora, CO 80012 303-668-7946 radmtfitness.com

LaTerrell Bradford Yoga Denver, CO 80205 303-295-2107 info@satyayogacooperative.com satyayogacooperative.com

Davida Wright-Galvin Fitness coach, yoga, dance 720-235-8622 withdavida.com

Food & Nutrition

Savor the Flavors of Wellness

Celebrate the rich culinary heritage of the Black community with nutritious and delicious recipes that nourish your body and soul. Connect with nutrition specialists and local food sources.

Soul Food Can Be Tasty and Healthy!

Johnetta Miller’s Mixed Greens

This is my favorite dish in the soul food genre. I didn’t grow up eating collards, but my late mother, Johnetta Miller, usually made a combination of mustard and turnip greens.

Turnip greens seemed to be the popular option for greens as I traveled through Tennessee. I love the peppery aroma that mustard greens give off while cooking. Lately, I’ve been using smoked turkey parts to season my greens because they give a good flavor with less fat. Yet, occasionally, I go retro and put on a pot of greens with some ham hocks.

Lately, I’ve been using smoked turkey parts to season my greens because they give a good flavor with less fat. Yet, occasionally, I go retro and put on a pot of greens with some ham hocks.

INGREDIENTS

Makes 8 servings

2 smoked ham hocks or smoked turkey leg or wings (about 1 pound)

1 1/2 pounds turnip greens (approximately 2 bunches)

1 1/2 pounds mustard greens (approximately 2 bunches)

1 tablespoon granulated garlic or 2 minced garlic cloves

1 medium onion, sliced in half or chopped into smaller pieces

Pinch of crushed red pepper flakes

Pinch of baking soda (optional)

Pinch of sugar (optional)

Pinch of salt (optional)

METHOD

1. Rinse the meat, place it in a large pot with the onion, garlic, and red pepper flakes, and cover with water.

2. Bring to a boil and cook until the meat is tender and the cooking liquid is flavorful, about 20 to 30 minutes.

3. Meanwhile, separate the leaves from the stems. Cut or tear the leaves into large, bite-sized pieces. Fill a clean sink or very large bowl with cold water. Add the leaves and gently swish them in the water to remove any dirt or grit. The stems may either be added to the stock as directed below, composted, or discarded.

4. Reduce the heat from boil to medium.

5. Drop batches of the washed leaves into the stock. As each batch of leaves wilts, add more leaves, stirring gently until all the leaves are wilted and submerged.

6. If you are using these ingredients, add the baking soda, sugar, and salt.

7. Simmer until the greens are tender, about 30 minutes. Check the seasoning and serve hot. If desired, cut or shred the meat into bite-sized pieces and mix with the greens. Otherwise, compost or discard the meat.

Variation: This recipe works with collard greens or kale substituted for or mixed in with the mustard and turnip greens. Since these greens are sturdier than mustard and turnip greens, adjust the simmering time to 45 minutes to an hour.

Adrian Miller The Soul Food Scholar

Hibiscus Aid

This recipe comes courtesy of the College of the Virgin Islands Cooperative Extension Service’s cookbook Native Recipes, published in 1978. I made it to the Virgin Islands in 2010 when my twin sister, April, married. What a beautiful place!

Dried hibiscus flowers should be available in your supermarket produce section or at any market catering to a Latino clientele. Showing the association with Latino culture, my grocery store displays them alongside various fresh and dried chillies. I like this recipe because of how the tartness of the hibiscus and lime, the spiciness of the ginger, and the sweetener all play off each other.

INGREDIENTS

Makes 2 quarts

2 quarts water

1 ounce fresh or dried food-grade hibiscus blossoms (about 1/2 cup)

1 ounce fresh ginger, finely chopped (about 2 tablespoons)

1 cup sugar, honey, or agave syrup, or to taste Juice of 1 fresh lime (about 3 tablespoons)

METHOD

1. Bring the water to a boil in a medium saucepan. Remove the pan from the heat and add the ginger, hibiscus, and sugar. Stir until the sugar dissolves.

2. Cover and let cool to room temperature. Strain into a large pitcher.

3. Stir in the lime juice and refrigerate until chilled. Serve cold.

How What We Eat Affects Who We Are

I have been a Registered Dietitian for over 50 years and have learned some basic concepts that never change: What we eat is not the only defining factor in who we are; it is part of a conglomerate contributing to who we are.

Registered Dietitian Nutritionist/Retired Academy of Nutrition & Dietetics (AND) National Organization of Blacks in Dietetics and Nutrition (NOBIDAN)

Over the years, basic concepts have remained, including the food groups, but how and when we consume the food in those groups has changed. Our approach to teaching individuals to be healthy through food has also changed. We now understand that telling people what they should or should not eat is tied to where individuals are, including where they live, where or if they work, family values, upbringing, and many other factors. In other words, meeting people where they are. Of course, what you eat and how much you eat is an underlying factor in who you become. For example, if someone lives in a food desert, access to healthy food is limited, and people are likely to eat what is cheap: food high in sugar, fat, and salt.

If we explain how the food we eat works in the body and the difference it can make in our health, we can help them improve.

Making Changes

As a Registered Dietitian, my goal has been to be an example of what I teach and to understand that not everyone might be ready or able to improve their diet even though they hear what you say. Demonstrating healthy eating is important, for example: if you look like the people you are trying to teach, or if you prepare a meal with them to show—rather than tell—them, it is more likely they will work to make the changes needed.

Eating unhealthy foods over the years can be tied to poor health, including diseases such as obesity, diabetes, and high blood pressure. All these issues, coupled with lack of exercise and possibly the environment, affect who we are and become, with diet being a significant contributor. If we teach people how to grow gardens and prepare vegetables, they can be an example to their children and grandchildren to have better eating habits in the future. If we explain how the food we eat works in the body and the difference it can make in our health, we can help them improve.

Jo Ann Pegues

FOOD BANKS & PANTRIES

Agape Christian Church

Food Pantry

2501 California Street Denver, CO 80205 303-296-2454

Anchor of Hope Church Food Pantry

2101 High Street Denver, CO 80205 303-861-4597

Aurora Interchurch TaskforceFood Distribution Center Food Bank 1553 Clinton Street Aurora, CO 80010

Brother Jeff’s Cultural Center Food Pantry

2836 Welton Street Denver, CO 80205

Charity’s Hope Food and Clothing Pantry

201 N. Chelton Road Colorado Springs, CO 80909 719-332-2360

Dahlia Campus Farms and Gardens

Fresh Produce, Fish 3401 Eudora Street Denver, CO 80207 303-504-1635 greenhouse@wellpower.org

Denver Rescue - Lawrence Street Food Pantry 2222 Lawrence Street Denver, CO 80204 303-297-0157 denverrescuemission.org

Food Bank of the Rockies foodbankrockies.org/find-food

Food Connect Colorado

Free Food Marketplace

12455 E. Mississippi Avenue, #101 Aurora, CO 80012 foodconnectcolorado.org

Hunger Free Colorado Hotline

855-855-4626 hungerfreecolorado.org

Montbello Mobile Food Pantry

Food Pantry

15555 E. 53rd Avenue Denver, CO 80239

More Life Community Center

Food Bank, Shower & Laundry, Market Place 14100 E. Jewell Avenue Aurora, CO 80012 info@coloradocommunity.org coloradocommunity.org

Park Hill Food Pantry

Food Pantry

5500 E. 26th Avenue Denver, CO 80207

303-916-3214 loren@parkhillpantry.com

People’s Pantry

Food Pantry 3401 Eudora Street Denver, CO 80207 303-300-6333

R&B’s Mo Betta Greens

Beverly Grant Marketplace 24th & Welton Denver, CO 80205 720-441-3465 mbgmanager@gmail.com

Restoration Outreach Programs

Food Bank 1540 Boston Street Aurora, CO 80010 720-859-2513 mary@ropserves.org

Salvation Army

Food Distribution Center 2136 Champa Street Denver, CO 80205 720-285-2025

Village Exchange Center

Village Pantry 1609 Havana Street Aurora, CO 80010 720-668-9968 info@villageexchangecenter.org

NUTRITION

Bridgette Jenefor Director of Health and Wellness Nutritional Wisdom Aurora, CO 80015 720-535-7929 nutritionalwisdom@q.com

Cooking Matters

Resources, recipes, tips cookingmatters.org

Joslyn Reese

Pure Heart Juice

Raw Food Teaching Kitchen and Pop-up Juice Bar 720-365-3586 pureheartjuice.com

Teri Sewell, Huff Integrative Nutrition Health and Culinary 720-318-4404 luvyourhealthylife.com

Kymber Stephenson, RDN, LD Registered Dietitian Clinical Director Side by Side Nutrition 333 W. Drake Road, Ste. 131 Fort Collins, CO 80526

1287 Lake Plaza Drive Colorado Springs, CO 80906 708-717-7394 contact@sidebysidenutrition.com sidebysidenurtrition.com

Ktone Cares Foundation Provides programs and events, geared toward but not exclusive to youth, to promote topical community issues and to expose how music is a source for healing and inspiration. Our objective is to engage community in health and wellness with an emphasis on youth violence prevention.

ktonecaresfoundation.org

Health Organizations

Empowering Community Wellness

The heart of a thriving community lies in its access to quality healthcare and support services. Find out more about these grassroots organizations dedicated to uplifting Black health in Colorado, championing change, addressing disparities, and fostering a healthier future for all. From advocacy and education to direct services and resources, these organizations are the backbone of our collective well-being.

Adam’s Purpose

Healing for the Black Community in Times of Grief

Adam’s Purpose is a peer-led grief organization focused on providing the Black community with awareness, education, and access to culturally responsive grief support. Recognizing the unique challenges and needs faced by people of color during times of loss, Adam’s Purpose works to foster access to culturally responsive grief and mental health support. This mission is achieved through comprehensive grief and mental health education, awareness, and advocacy efforts. The mission of Adam’s Purpose is to provide help, hope, and healing to the Black community impacted by the death of a loved one, particularly Black moms. By normalizing grief recovery, raising awareness, providing education, and ensuring access to culturally responsive support services, Adam’s Purpose aims to alleviate the heavy burden of grief. This mission is vital in a society where cultural differences can often mean the difference between receiving adequate support and facing grief in isolation.

Access to Culturally Responsive Support Services

The vision of Adam’s Purpose is to cultivate a griefsensitive culture and build a robust support network of allies through advocacy. The goal is to ensure that every Black person impacted by grief has access to the culturally responsive support services they need to begin the healing process after losing a loved one. This vision includes creating a community where grief is understood, accepted, and addressed with the sensitivity and respect it deserves.

Central to Adam’s Purpose is promoting a supportive community where resources are accessible, safe spaces for memorializing loved ones are available, and pathways for grief recovery are well-established. The organization’s diverse initiatives and programs aim to address various aspects of grief and healing. These programs offer immediate support and work towards long-term community resilience and understanding.

Adam’s Purpose also strongly emphasizes education and awareness. Through workshops, seminars, and community events, the organization works to dismantle the stigma surrounding grief and mental health within the Black community. By advocating for culturally competent care, Adam’s Purpose ensures that support services are available, effective, and respectful of cultural nuances.

Adam’s Purpose is more than just an organization; it is a lifeline for those navigating the painful grief journey. Through its mission and vision, Adam’s Purpose is dedicated to fostering a community where each individual can find the support, understanding, and resources they need to heal and move forward.

Adam’s Purpose

Denver and Aurora Shay Jacobs Executive Director adamspurpose.org

be well Promoting Health Equity and Wellness

The be well Health and Wellness Initiative (be well) is a grassroots movement dedicated to empowering communities to take charge of their health and wellness. The mission of be well is to influence programs, policies, and practices to create health equity and access for all people. be well envisions a culture where everyone has an equal opportunity to achieve the health they desire, regardless of race, income, gender, location, education, or any other social barrier.

be well is a community-focused initiative aimed at promoting health equity and wellness among underserved populations. With a mission to create healthier communities through education, advocacy, and empowerment, be well connects individuals with the resources and support they need to lead healthy lives.

A strong commitment to health education is at the heart of be well’s work. They offer various workshops, seminars, and events covering essential topics such as nutrition, physical activity, mental health, and chronic disease prevention. These educational programs are designed to be accessible and culturally relevant, ensuring all community members benefit from the information and resources provided.

be well also places great emphasis on advocacy to achieve health equity. They collaborate with local government, healthcare providers, and other organizations to address the social determinants of health and promote policies that support healthy communities. By advocating for improved access to healthcare, affordable housing, and safe neighborhoods, be well aims to eliminate barriers that prevent individuals from achieving optimal health.

Community Health Workers

The Community Health Worker (CHW) initiative is one of be well’s key programs. Community Health Workers are trusted community members trained to provide health education, support, and advocacy. They are critical in connecting individuals with healthcare services, offering peer support, and helping navigate the complex healthcare system. By leveraging the expertise and trust of CHWs, be well reaches and supports some of the most vulnerable populations.

In addition to direct services, be well organizes community events that promote wellness and foster social connections. From health fairs and fitness classes to community gardens and cooking demonstrations, these events encourage individuals to take an active role in their health and well-being. They also provide opportunities for community members to come together, share experiences, and support one another.

be well’s holistic approach to health and wellness makes it an excellent resource for the communities it serves. By addressing health education, advocacy, and social connection, Be Well works tirelessly to create a more equitable and healthier future for all.

be well

Dr. Djuana Harvell, PhD Director of Special and Innovative Projects

7350 E 29th Avenue, Suite 300 Denver, CO 80238 bewellconnect.net

Black Parents United Foundation

Empowering Families for Equities in Education, Health, and Environmental Justice

The Black Parents United Foundation (BPUF) is a 501(c)3 community-based non-profit organization created for parents of Black and Brown children to empower their children and to promote equity, diversity, and inclusion through confidence building, community development, and community engagement.

BPUF supports parents of color in advocating for their children’s educational needs and human rights. Created to address systemic inequities in environmental justice, education, and health equity, BPUF provides a platform for parents to unite, share resources, and amplify their voices to effect meaningful change in the educational landscape.

Diverse Programming

BPUF offers a range of programs designed to educate and empower parents. These workshops cover essential topics such as understanding community-led policy, addressing poor air and water quality, health impacts, educational resources, navigating the school system, and advocating for equity in disproportionately impacted communities.

Community Building and Collaboration

In addition to advocacy and education, BPUF strongly emphasizes community building and collaboration. They organize regular community meetings and events that bring families and communities together to share experiences, provide mutual support, and, most importantly, celebrate their rich cultural heritage. These gatherings help build a robust network of families and community members who can rely on each other for advice and assistance. BPUF’s collaborative approach

ensures everyone’s voice is heard and policies are designed to benefit all.

The Black Parents United Foundation is a vital resource for parents of color, offering the tools and support they need to advocate for parents and their children’s well-being. By focusing on environmental justice, health equity, education equity, advocacy, community building, and collaboration, BPUF is impacting the lives of Black and Brown families and communities.

Black Parents United Foundation

Dr. Shere Walker Ravenell

Executive Director 1445 Dayton St. Aurora, CO 80010 blackparentsunitedfoundation.org

brother jeff’s Community Health Initiative Comprehensive

Care for a Healthier Community

brother jeff’s Community Health Initiative (bjCHI) is a vital force in addressing health disparities in underserved communities, focusing on HIV prevention, mental health, and food insecurity. By promoting holistic wellness, the initiative considers the interconnectedness of individuals, families, communities, and cultures. Strong community partnerships with local organizations, healthcare providers, and government agencies enhance their programming and impact.

Central to bjCHI’s mission is HIV prevention. Recognizing the significant impact of HIV on marginalized communities, the initiative provides comprehensive education on prevention methods, testing, and care linkage. Collaborations with local healthcare organizations and government agencies ensure that individuals receive the necessary resources and support. Regular workshops, outreach events, and distribution of preventive materials like condoms and PrEP (preexposure prophylaxis) medication form the core of their prevention efforts.

Mental health is a critical aspect of overall wellness. bjCHI offers counseling services, support groups, and educational sessions to address mental health challenges influenced by social, economic, and cultural factors. Working closely with communitybased organizations, the initiative provides culturally competent care that is accessible, respectful, and effective for diverse populations.

Food Pantry

Addressing food insecurity is another key focus of bjCHI. The organization operates a pantry that supplies nutritious food to those in need and runs the “No One Should Be Hungry, Period” program. This program distributes over fifteen thousand free meals annually throughout the Denver Metro Area, ensuring that vulnerable community members access essential nutrition. By alleviating food insecurity, bjCHI helps individuals and families focus on other aspects of their well-being.

Holistic wellness is the foundation of bjCHI programming. This approach acknowledges that true health encompasses physical, emotional, and social well-being. Family and community are integral to an individual’s health journey. Events like family wellness days, community health fairs, and cultural celebrations foster a sense of belonging and support. These activities provide health screenings, nutritional guidance, and fitness opportunities, promoting a well-rounded approach to health.

Strong community partnerships bolster bjCHI’s success. Collaborating with community-based organizations, healthcare providers, and governmental agencies amplifies their impact. These partnerships facilitate resource sharing, enhance service delivery, and foster a unified response to community health challenges. brother jeff’s Community Health Initiative exemplifies a comprehensive and inclusive approach to health and wellness. By focusing on HIV prevention, mental health, food insecurity, and holistic wellness, and leveraging strong community partnerships, the initiative makes a significant difference in the lives of many, weaving a network of care and support that strengthens the entire community.

brother jeff’s Community Health Initiative

brother jeff

2836 Welton Street Denver, CO 80205 brotherjeff.com

CACY: Colorado Alliance for Caregiving Youth (Formerly TCGE&A)

Pioneering Support for Youth Caregivers in Denver

CACY is a nonprofit organization that addresses the often overlooked and under-addressed issue of young caregivers in our community. As the pioneering force in the Denver metro area, CACY is committed to advocating for the needs of caregiving youth and providing them with the support and resources they need to thrive. Founded in August 2023, the organization recognized a critical gap in support for young caregivers and decided to fill the void.

The mission of CACY is to empower caregiving youth and their families through heart-centered education, advocacy, support, and collaboration. The organization aims to shine a spotlight on the challenges faced by youth caregivers and advocate for policies and support systems that better meet their needs. CACY believes in empowering young caregivers to have their voices heard and ensuring they can access the resources and support they need to navigate their caregiving responsibilities while pursuing their goals and aspirations.

Five Pillars for Success

CACY aligns its efforts around the following pillars for success: Collaboration, Coalition Building, Advocacy, and Education.

CACY works with a diverse range of partners, including schools, healthcare providers, community organizations, and policymakers, to create a support network for caregiving youth. By fostering these partnerships, the organization can more effectively address the multifaceted needs of caregiving youth.

The organization aims to build strong coalitions with other organizations and stakeholders committed to supporting young caregivers. Through these coalitions, CACY can amplify its impact and drive systemic change.

CACY advocates for the rights and needs of caregiving youth at the local, state, and national levels. Its advocacy efforts focus on influencing policies and practices that support youth caregivers and ensure they receive the recognition and resources they deserve.

The organization spearheaded the effort to add a question about caregiving to the state’s 2023 Healthy Kids Survey. For the first time in Colorado’s history, we will have quantitative data on the number of caregiving youth in grades 6-12. Colorado is only the third state in the country to collect this critical data.

Through a collaborative approach, coalition-building efforts, advocacy initiatives, and educational programs, CACY aims to make a tangible difference in the lives of young caregivers and contribute to the community’s overall well-being.

The organization’s goal extends beyond serving its immediate community. CACY aims to create a practical blueprint that can be modeled by others, both near and far, who seek to address the needs of young caregivers in their communities. By sharing knowledge, resources, and best practices, CACY hopes to inspire and empower others to take action and support caregiving youth wherever they may be

Colorado Alliance for Caregiving Youth

Nadine Roberts Cornish Founder & Executive Director

820 S Monaco Pkwy #342 Denver, CO 80224 tcgeanda.org

Colorado Black Health Collaborative Championing Health Equity in Colorado’s Black Community

The Colorado Black Health Collaborative (CBHC) is a non-profit 501(c)3 organization founded in 2008. CBHC’s mission is rooted in the commitment to improve health outcomes for Black Coloradans through a multifaceted approach that includes education, advocacy, and community engagement. CBHC has become a cornerstone in the fight against health inequities, operating in the spirit of excellence and delivering innovative, effective, and culturally sensitive initiatives.

Programs

CBHC’s programs incorporate the Black community’s rich cultural heritage and unique experiences. CBHC conducts health education workshops, community health fairs, and preventive health screenings to increase awareness and provide valuable health information. These programs cover various topics, including chronic disease management, tobacco prevention, and mental health. By empowering individuals with knowledge, CBHC helps community members take control of their health and make informed decisions.

Advocacy

In addition to education, CBHC strongly emphasizes advocacy. The organization influences health policies and practices that affect the Black community, and this advocacy work is crucial to ensuring that the needs of the Black community are prioritized.

Community Engagement

Community engagement is at the heart of CBHC’s work. The organization collaborates with local partners, including schools, faith-based organizations, and community groups. Collaboration is essential to extend the reach and impact of CBHC’s initiatives.

Colorado Black Health Collaborative is vital in the quest for health equity in Colorado’s Black community. By focusing on education, advocacy, and community engagement, CBHC continues to be a catalyst for positive change.

Colorado Black Health Collaborative Dr. Shakari Hood Executive Director 3025 S. Parker Road, #737 Aurora, CO 80014 coloradoblackhealth.org

Center for African American Health Empowering

Communities Through Holistic Wellness

The Center for African American Health (CAA Health) is a symbol of hope and empowerment for Black communities. It provides comprehensive health education, health promotion, and disease prevention programs. Located in Northeast Denver, CAA Health’s mission is to empower the Black community to make informed health decisions that benefit the whole person through education, collaboration, and advocacy.

Recognizing that health is influenced by a multitude of factors, CAA Health offers a wide range of services designed to meet the diverse needs of the community. These services include health insurance application assistance, health screenings, parenting classes (24/7 Dads, Melanated Motherhood Movement), nutritional counseling, mental health support, chronic disease management (Diabetes Self-Management Education, Aging Mastery), and social connection (Barbershop Talks, Self-Care Saturdays, Annual Health Expo, and Men’s Wellness Retreat). By addressing the whole person, CAA Health ensures that individuals and families receive the comprehensive care they need to lead healthier lives.

Success Through Collaboration

CAA Health’s success is bolstered by its strong partnerships with local healthcare providers, community organizations, and educational institutions. Through collaboration, CAA Health can extend its reach and provide more comprehensive services. CAA Health’s Community Resource Navigation team reflects the community and works to connect individuals and families to vital resources and services. The organization also has navigators specializing in perinatal navigation, behavioral health navigation, men’s

health/services, and support for seniors. In 2025, CAA Health’s newly renovated facility will provide a teaching kitchen, community garden, community meeting space, and a medical consult space for year-round health screenings provided by a network of volunteer healthcare providers.

In addition to direct services, CAA Health is actively involved in advocacy efforts to address systemic issues that contribute to health disparities. The organization works to influence health policies and practices at local, state, and national levels. By advocating for equitable access to healthcare and resources, CAA Health strives to create an environment where all individuals have the opportunity to achieve optimal health. Through its comprehensive programs, community engagement, and advocacy efforts, CAA Health is paving the way for a healthier and more equitable society.

Center for African American Health stands as a vital resource for the Black community, promoting holistic wellness and advocating for health equity. Its multifaceted approach and unwavering dedication make it a leader in the fight against health disparities.

Center for African American Health

Deidre Johnson

CEO & Executive Director 3350 Hudson Street Denver, CO 80207 ccahealth.org

Empowering Support

The Center for Trauma & Resilience’s Comprehensive Support Services

The Center for Trauma & Resilience (CTR) offers nocost culturally and linguistically responsive services and fosters health promotion for people affected by crime and trauma. CTR is a social work and social justice agency that utilizes an invested, cooperative, and accountable team approach.

The organization provides services to those affected by crime and trauma, including arson, assault, burglary, caregiver abuse, child abuse and neglect, domestic violence, elder abuse, fraud, gang-related crimes, home invasion, harassment, hate crimes, homicide, kidnapping, questionable death, robbery, sexual assault and incest, stalking, suicide, attempted suicide, and vandalism. CTR provides counseling to clients ages 18 and over. Our somatic services include trauma-sensitive yoga, auricular (ear) acupuncture, and Tai Chi.

Our “Befriending the Body” services are evidencebased behavioral health treatments specially designed to reduce symptoms of trauma for all bodies and abilities. Classes are co-facilitated by a certified yoga instructor and a counselor. Gentle poses, combined with breathing and relaxation techniques, help participants learn to listen to their bodies and make healthy choices for body, mind, and spirit.

Trauma-Informed Care

Community Oriented Reentry Experience (CORE) provides trauma-informed care for formerly incarcerated women through a holistic reentry experience. It allows participants to create their path to success by working in a collaborative and safe environment.

The Elder Care Manager Program provides specially tailored services to elderly victims of crime to help ensure their safety and continuation of quality of life. This component offers emotional assistance and companionship by phone or in person, including at home. A weekly support group, Words of Wisdom, is also available for elders.

Compassion Fatigue Workshops are available for outside professionals impacted by the stress and trauma of others. They are a way for providers in the human service field to connect, nurture, and sustain themselves to build self-care and resiliency.

The Translation and Interpreting Center offers services in more than 50 languages, including American Sign Language. This network of native speakers has local and national accreditation. All proceeds are donated back to CTR.

In addition, the AVAIL program provides legal aid to non-citizen victims of abuse. Our staff is skilled in preparing, drafting, and filing VAWA and U Visa cases. Further, the Center for Trauma & Resilience provides a trauma-informed approach to providing legal assistance to undocumented immigrant survivors. CTR’s legal services are free and may provide a pathway to citizenship.

Center for Trauma and Resilience

Cathy Phelps, MA, LCSW Executive Director

P.O. Box 18975 Denver, CO 80218 traumahealth.org and ticenterdenver.com

Colorado Sickle Cell Association

Celebrating 50 Years of Service in 2024

The Colorado Sickle Cell Association (CSCA) celebrates 50 years of service in 2024. CSCA has been at the forefront of advocacy and support for Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) patients. The organization provides essential services, including genetic counseling, patient education, sponsored blood drives, and advocacy for better healthcare policies. Their work is crucial in addressing the needs of the SCD community, which often faces significant healthcare disparities.

Sickle Cell Disease disproportionately impacts Blacks, with about 1 in 365 Black births being affected. This significant disparity underscores the necessity of targeted healthcare policies and resources to address the unique challenges faced by this community.

Modern advances in treating Sickle Cell Disease offer hope for those affected. Innovative therapies such as gene therapy and CRISPR technology are showing promise in correcting the genetic mutations that cause SCD. This marks a significant milestone and a leap forward in what is possible to transform SCD. Additionally, new medications like voxelotor and crizanlizumab have been approved by the FDA to help manage the symptoms and complications of the disease more effectively. However, these medications and innovations mean nothing if people living with SCD don’t have access.

New Law Named After Arie Taylor

The Governor has signed a landmark bill (SB24-042) to improve the lives of those affected by Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) in Colorado. The new law, named after Arie Taylor, a pioneering Black politician and advocate, seeks to enhance support and resources for individuals living with this chronic illness. Efforts such as this pave the way for improving the lives of community members with Sickle Cell Disease.

Arie Taylor, who served as the first Black woman elected to the Denver City Council, was a tireless champion for civil rights and health equity. Her legacy continues to inspire many, and this law stands as a testament to her enduring impact on the community.

Governor Polis emphasized the importance of this legislation, stating, “This new law honors the legacy of Arie Taylor and marks a significant step forward in our commitment to providing better healthcare and support for those living with Sickle Cell Disease. We must ensure that all Coloradans, especially those disproportionately affected, receive the care and resources they need.”

Senator Janet Buckner, a leading advocate for the bill, added, “Sickle Cell Disease predominantly affects African Americans, and for too long, these patients have faced inadequate care and support. This law is crucial to health equity and justice, ensuring that our healthcare system serves everyone equally.”

The signing of the Sickle Cell law named after Arie Taylor marks a pivotal moment in Colorado’s healthcare landscape. It honors a trailblazing figure and provides much-needed support to a community that has long been underserved.

Colorado Sickle Cell Association

Donna Dixon

President and CEO

6795 E. Tennessee Avenue, Suite 402B Denver, CO 80224

cscadenver.godaddysites.com

Colorado Council of Black Nurses Pioneering Diversity in Healthcare

The Colorado Council of Black Nurses, Inc. (CCBN) is a dynamic organization of Black nurses and aspiring Nursing students in Colorado. Established to address the unique challenges Black individuals face in Nursing, CCBN has been instrumental in fostering a diverse and inclusive healthcare environment so that good healthcare is a fundamental human right instead of a privilege.

Scholarship Program

Since its inception over 50 years ago, CCBN has made significant strides in promoting the Nursing profession among underrepresented populations. One of its key initiatives is the scholarship program, which provides financial assistance to high school and college students pursuing Nursing careers. These scholarships are designed to reduce financial barriers and support students with wraparound services, including mentoring, throughout their educational journey, ensuring they have the resources to succeed. CCBN has maintained a 100% National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) pass rate among its scholar graduates since the pandemic, increasing the number of Black registered nurses (RN) in the healthcare system.

The eligibility criteria for these scholarships include attending a Colorado secondary or postsecondary program or institution of learning, having financial and/or academic needs, and committing to give back to underserved communities in meaningful ways. Applicants must also submit an essay detailing their career goals and interest in Nursing, along with transcripts and recommendations. This rigorous process ensures that the recipients are academically capable and passionate about making a difference in healthcare.

Professional Development

Beyond scholarships, CCBN offers a range of programs aimed at professional development and community engagement. Educational workshops and seminars provide nurses with the skills, knowledge, and networking opportunities needed to excel in their careers. Community outreach initiatives, such as health fairs and free clinics, aim to improve health outcomes through providing free health education and essential services to underserved populations. These programs reflect CCBN’s commitment to both individual and community well-being.

The impact of CCBN’s work is evident in the success stories of its scholarship recipients. Many have achieved significant milestones in their Nursing careers, often returning to mentor new students and contributing to the organization’s growth. Their achievements highlight the importance of CCBN’s mission and the difference it makes in the lives of aspiring nurses.

As forward thinkers, CCBN continues to break barriers in local, international, global, and now off-planet arenas. Through its work in transforming how small community organizations receive state funding, influencing health care policy, igniting youth engagement, prioritizing justice initiatives, spotlighting the importance of behavioral health, advocating for community infrastructure development, and seeing the first nurse outside of Earth’s orbit, CCBN is pioneering the way for health care not only on planet Earth but in outer space. Whether starting or supporting Nursing schools in Africa or championing the addition of space medicine as a part of Nursing school, CCBN is a powerhouse influencer on workforce development for current and future generations.

Colorado Council of Black Nurses

Robin Bruce, RN 3700 Quebec Street #100-310 Denver, CO 80207-163 ccbninc.org

Families Forward Resource Center

Creating a Safe, Healthy, and Connected Community

Over the past nearly 30 years, Families Forward Resource Center (FFRC) has been dedicated to the Metro Denver Black and African American community to enrich entire families through partnerships and services that create a safe, healthy, and connected community.

FFRC programming focuses on eliminating perinatal disparities, including maternal and infant mortality (death), through the provision of direct services and system change efforts.

The Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) funds FFRC’s flagship program, Healthy Babies, Strong Families. This program supports nearly 700 Black birthing individuals and families annually and provides intentional case management services, doula support, behavioral health support, and education from culturally congruent team members.

The Families Forward Resource Center’s Community Consortium includes community members and program participants, in addition to over 20 organizations dedicated to supporting Black birthing justice and eliminating maternal and infant mortality. The Consortium is involved in authentic community engagement, ensuring that all work is driven by community insight and experiences.

The four core values that drive all of Families Forward Resource Center’s work include the following:

• Promoting self-empowerment of individuals, families, and communities to achieve self-reliance.

• Building a foundation of hope, integrity, and community pride within staff and volunteers.

• Working with families through relationships based on shared power and mutual respect.

• Believing that healthy families nurture successful children and promote thriving communities.

Families Forward Resource Center

Shawn Taylor Executive Director

12000 E. 47th Avenue, Suite #400 Denver, CO 80239 familiesforwardco.com

Gyedi Project

Addressing Health Inequities in Black Communities

Gyedi (pronounced ‘jee-di’), is a grassroots community organization dedicated to addressing health inequities in Black communities in the Denver Metro area, including the Black immigrant community. Recognizing the profound disparities in health outcomes faced by Black communities, Gyedi is committed to bridging the gap through community health education, health professional cultural responsiveness training, and communityengaged research collaborations.

Gyedi’s mission is rooted in the belief that health literacy is a fundamental right and a critical component in addressing systemic inequities. By providing accessible and culturally relevant health information, Gyedi empowers individuals to take charge of their health and well-being. This empowerment is particularly important in communities that have historically been marginalized and underserved by traditional healthcare systems.

Gyedi’s approach to health education is multifaceted. It focuses on both immediate needs and long-term solutions to overcome barriers such as low health literacy, healthcare access gaps, and language and cultural differences. The organization operates through workshops, seminars, and outreach programs tailored to the needs of Black communities, ensuring that health information is culturally relevant and actionable.

Training for Medical Professionals

Additionally, Gyedi partners with community leaders to collaboratively train medical professionals and raise awareness about the importance of cultural responsiveness in healthcare. Through this, Gyedi aims to equip Black communities with the tools and information to advocate for themselves while fostering a collective effort with medical professionals to improve patient experience. This dual focus helps to address both the symptoms and root causes of inequities in healthcare.

Gyedi’s collaborations in community-engaged research are creating grassroots support for health equity research to increase Black communities’ participation in research studies. Gyedi bridges the gap between researchers and community members, ensuring that researchers receive guidance on designing culturally responsive research approaches while potential study participants are adequately informed on research processes.

Gyedi is a vital force in the Denver Metro area, striving to eliminate health disparities and promote health equity in Black communities. Through its dedicated focus on community health education, cultural responsiveness training, and research collaborations, Gyedi is making significant strides in creating a healthier, more informed, and empowered Black community. By promoting health literacy, Gyedi is paving the way for a future where everyone can achieve optimal health and well-being.

Gyedi Project

Dr. Cynthia Hazel Co-Founder

9635 E. Montview Boulevard Aurora, CO 80010 gyediproject.org

It Takes a Village Bridging

Health and Social Gaps in the Denver Metro Area

It Takes a Village is a primarily African American organization serving people living with HIV and providing services to prevent the spread of HIV in communities of color.

It Takes a Village is committed to reducing health and social disparities among people of color in the Denver metro area. Recognizing the systemic inequities that have long plagued these communities, the organization aims to foster equity and improve quality of life through a multifaceted approach.

At the heart of It

Takes a Village is the mission to empower individuals and communities by addressing the root causes of disparities. The organization employs a holistic model, focusing on health education, social support, and advocacy. This comprehensive strategy ensures that efforts are not only impactful but also sustainable.

Health Education Programs

Health disparities in communities of color often stem from a combination of socio-economic factors, lack of access to quality healthcare, and systemic biases. It Takes a Village tackles these issues head-on through targeted health education programs. Featured programs include Brothas4Ever, weekly groups and activities for African American same-gender-loving men, and TransAction, groups for Transgender women. It Takes a Village’s programs are designed to increase awareness about prevalent health issues, promote preventive care, and provide resources for managing chronic conditions. The organization equips community members with the knowledge and tools they need to make informed health decisions by offering workshops,

health fairs, and informational sessions.

In addition to health education, social support is a critical component of the organization’s work. It Takes a Village understands that social determinants of health, such as housing, employment, and education, play a significant role in overall well-being. Therefore, the organization provides various support services, including job training, housing assistance, and educational programs. These services help to create a stable foundation upon which individuals and families can build healthier lives.

Advocacy is another critical pillar of It Takes a Village’s approach. The organization actively engages with policymakers, community leaders, and other stakeholders to advocate for policies and practices that promote equity and justice. By amplifying the voices of those often unheard, It Takes a Village seeks to drive systemic change and ensure that the needs of people of color are addressed at all levels of society.

Community engagement and collaboration are essential to the success of It Takes a Village. The organization works closely with local partners, including healthcare providers, schools, and other communitybased organizations, to create a robust support network. This collaborative effort enhances the reach and impact of their programs, ensuring that more individuals benefit from the resources and services available.

It Takes a Village catalyzes change in the Denver metro area. The organization is making significant strides towards a more equitable and just society through its unwavering commitment to reducing health and social disparities among people of color. By focusing on health education, social support, and advocacy for people living with HIV, It Takes a Village is helping to build a future where every individual can thrive.

It Takes a Village

Imani S. Latif Executive Director

1475 Lima Street Aurora, CO 80010 ittakesavillagecolorado.org

Mile High Medical Society

Leaving a Legacy for Future Generations

The Mile High Medical Society (MHMS) is a distinguished organization that promotes health equity and improves healthcare outcomes for marginalized communities in Colorado. MHMS was founded to address disparities and advocate for inclusive healthcare.

MHMS has a rich history of fighting for civil rights and equal access to healthcare. Established by a group of visionary Black physicians, the society sought to combat the systemic barriers that prevented minorities from receiving quality medical care. MHMS has evolved into a multifaceted organization focusing on education, professional development, advocacy, and mentorship. MHMS’s mission is to advance health equity and ensure all individuals have access to high-quality healthcare. The organization envisions a future where healthcare disparities are eradicated, and every community member can achieve optimal health and well-being.

Core Programs and Initiatives

MHMS conducts health workshops to educate and increase health literacy. Topics include obesity, diabetes management, hypertension, nutrition, and mental health awareness.

The group advocates for health policies that promote health equity and protect the rights of marginalized communities.

MHMS supports the professional growth of Black healthcare providers and students through mentorship programs, continuing education opportunities, and networking events. By nurturing the next generation of healthcare leaders, MHMS aims to diversify the medical workforce.

To honor Dr. Charles Blackwood, Jr. and create a legacy for future Black doctors, MHMS successfully raised over one million dollars. The Endowment ensures funds to support University of Colorado medical students in perpetuity.

The impact of MHMS on the Denver community is profound. Through the clinical practice excellence of their members, education programs, and advocacy efforts, the organization has improved health outcomes for our community.

Mile High Medical Society

Dr. Johnny Johnson President milehighmedicalsociety.org

Montbello Walks

Inspiring Health, Wellness, and Community

Founded to create a healthier and more connected community, Montbello Walks organizes regular walking events catering to all ages and fitness levels. The organization motivates residents to embrace walking to enhance their physical health, mental well-being, and sense of community. Montbello Walks encourages walking for 30 minutes daily, five days a week, to improve heart health. By walking, talking, and connecting with residents, they foster healthy bodies while building community relationships.

Wellness Education & Community Engagement

In addition to walking events, Montbello Walks hosts workshops and seminars on various topics, providing residents with valuable information and resources to improve their overall health.

A unique aspect of Montbello Walks is their emphasis on social connection. Their events are not just about physical activity but also about building relationships and fostering a sense of community. Participants are encouraged to walk and talk, share their stories, and connect with their neighbors. This approach strengthens social bonds and creates a supportive network that enhances mental health and overall well-being.

Environment & Infrastructure Changes

Montbello Walks also advocates for environmental and infrastructural changes to support a walkable community. They collaborate with local governments and organizations to improve sidewalks, create safe pedestrian crossings, and develop green spaces. By making the neighborhood more walk-friendly, Montbello Walks aims to create a healthier and more vibrant community for all residents.

Montbello Walks exemplifies how simple, everyday activities can bring significant health and social benefits. Visit the website for more information about its programs and upcoming events.

Montbello Walks

Pamela Jiner Executive Director

P. O. Box 39634 Denver, CO 80239 montbellowalks.com

The Mission and Vision of the Denver-Rocky Mountain Association of Black Psychologists

Empowering Minds

The Denver-Rocky Mountain Association of Black Psychologists’ (D-RMABPsi) mission is to liberate the Afrikan mind, empower the Afrikan character, and illuminate the Afrikan spirit. The organization aims to foster skilled, community-minded, Afrikan-centered psychologists and allied professionals committed to serving the community.

Established in 1977 as a chapter of the National Association of Black Psychologists, D-RMABPsi engages in several activities to fulfill its mission, including conducting symposiums for mental health practitioners, consulting other local nonprofit organizations on African American mental health issues, offering community forums, sponsoring related conferences, and providing graduate-level scholarships. The membership base of the D-RMABPsi comprises licensed psychologists, undergraduate and graduate psychology students, social workers, and related health and mental health professionals. As a regional organization, its membership involvement extends south to Pueblo and as far north as Cheyenne, Wyoming.

Destigmatizing Mental Health

One of the primary goals of D-RMABPsi is to destigmatize mental health. Mental wellness exists on a continuum; on one end are individuals who are very adept at coping with the challenges of life, and on the other extreme are those who suffer from psychosis or severe mental disturbances. Most people exist somewhere in the middle, with varying degrees of uncertainty towards either side based on life’s challenges.

“We all have challenges to cope with,” explained Dr. Anthony P. Young, president of the organization since 2004 and involved since its inception. “At times, life can be tough for all of us and is a normal part of the human condition. We need to give people permission to engage in appropriate help-seeking behavior rather than being critical of them. We must be willing to accept that even the best of us need help sometimes.”

D-RMABPsi is committed to addressing the shortage of mental health professionals who are African American or other people of color. It is vital that all professionals are trained to work with various cultural groups. In most current university graduate school programs, the curriculum is highly Eurocentric in focus and does not adequately address culturally congruent practices.

A significant offering of D-RMABPsi is their Emotional Emancipation Circles, a way of assisting people of Afrikan descent to address the historical trauma, as well as personal skills to cope effectively with racial trauma and other stressors of life.

Denver-Rocky Mountain Association of Black Psychologists

Dr. Anthony P. Young President

303 East 17th Ave. Suite 400 Denver, CO 80203 denverrmabpsi.org

Inside the Transformative Work of Second Chance Center

Reviving Hope

Second Chance Center, Inc. (SCC) ‘s mission is to help formerly incarcerated people transition to successful and fulfilling lives.

Transitioning from prison is a difficult and challenging journey. SCC helps returning citizens achieve healthy and rewarding lives. In 2023, the organization served more than 4,000 people at its main site in Aurora and the Denver Jail.

Second Chance’s approach is centered on empowering individuals to make independent decisions about their own re-entry plan, with the support of staff and peers who have walked the same path. More than half of the staff have served time in prison, including the organization’s founder Hassan Latif. His book, Never Going Back: 7 Steps to Staying Out of Prison, forms the core of SCC’s peer mentoring approach. Second Chance care managers work in partnership with clientpartners to help them find immediate and long-term housing and pursue training and employment, as well as apprenticeships for “mortgage-paying” careers. SCC also assists with basic needs such as food, clothing, and transportation.

Community Care Collaborative

For mental health and substance use disorder care, the Colorado non-profit created the Community Care Collaborative, offering onsite and close-by providers who understand and can connect with people who may have traumatic memories of indifferent, adversarial, or required treatment in prison. The goal is to build trust and allow client-partners to set their own goals and timetables for healing, with the philosophy—especially with health care—that individuals should be able to choose the services they need, in an environment where they feel safe and respected. Five of the therapists in the Community Care Collaborative are people of color.

In-house therapists are available. They can generally meet on the same day in the case of urgently needed care. Additionally, behavioral health navigators help people find the healthcare services they need. Wellness programming includes traditional and non-traditional approaches, beginning with one-on-one addiction counseling, individual and group peer mentoring, support groups, yoga, and accu-detox. Care managers work with client partners to qualify for Medicaid, but there is never a charge for treatment at SCC.

The Second Chance Center’s nearby partners include the Don’t Look Back Center, which serves women and trans women. Parents on a Mission and the POPS Project help provide support for family re-engagement.

Second Chance Center

Courtney

Sanchez Director of Care

Management 224 Potomac Street Aurora, 80012 1291 Delaware Street Denver, 80204 scccolorado.org

Soul 2 Soul Sisters

A Journey of Healing, Justice, and Empowerment

Soul 2 Soul Sisters is an organization dedicated to the holistic well-being and empowerment of Black Beloveds. With a mission rooted in spirituality, social justice, and community, Soul 2 Soul Sisters addresses critical issues affecting Black women, femmes, and gender expansive beloveds through innovative programs and initiatives.

Soul 2 Soul Sisters was founded with a vision to create a safe and nurturing space for Black Beloveds to connect, heal, and thrive. The organization recognizes the unique challenges faced by Black people, including systemic racism, health disparities, and socio-economic inequities. Its mission is to advance the well-being of Black women, femmes, and gender expansive folks by addressing these challenges through a holistic approach that combines spirituality, advocacy, and community support.

Soul 2 Soul Sisters programs are designed to empower Black women in various aspects of their lives. These programs are grouped into several key areas:

1. Healing and Wellness: Recognizing the importance of mental and physical health, Soul 2 Soul Sisters provides programs focused on holistic wellness.

2. Reproductive Justice: Soul 2 Soul Sisters is actively involved in advocating for reproductive justice, ensuring that Black Beloveds have access to comprehensive and equitable reproductive healthcare.

3. Racial Justice and Advocacy: Central to the organization’s mission is the fight for racial justice. Soul 2 Soul Sisters advocates to combat systemic racism and promote equity.

4. Economic Empowerment: Economic stability is a critical component of well-being. The organization offers financial literacy, entrepreneurship, and career development programs. Soul 2 Soul Sisters equips Black Beloveds with the skills and resources needed to achieve economic independence.

5. Spiritual Enrichment: Spirituality is a core aspect of Soul 2 Soul Sisters’ approach. The organization hosts spiritual retreats, prayer circles, and spirit-filled discussions. This spiritual grounding helps to foster resilience and a sense of community.

Community engagement is integral to Soul 2 Soul Sisters work. The organization collaborates with a wide range of partners. These partnerships enable Soul 2 Soul Sisters to offer comprehensive support to Black women, femmes, & gender expansive beloveds to mobilize the community around issues of justice and equity.

The impact of Soul 2 Soul Sisters is reflected in the testimonials of those who have benefited from the programs. Many participants speak of the profound transformation they have experienced through the organization’s support.

Quantitative data also underscores the organization’s impact. For example, the reproductive justice initiatives have led to increased awareness and access to reproductive healthcare among Black birthing folks in the community. The economic empowerment programs have seen numerous participants secure better employment opportunities and improve their financial stability.

Soul 2 Soul Sisters stands as a testament to the power of community, spirituality, and advocacy in transforming lives. Through its comprehensive programs and unwavering commitment to Black women, femmes, and gender expansive beloved’s well-being, the organization continues to make a significant difference. As it navigates future challenges and opportunities, Soul 2 Soul Sisters remains a vital force for healing and justice in the community, empowering Black beloveds to thrive and lead.

Soul

2 Soul Sisters

Courtney Anika, Co-Executive Director P.O. Box 7632, Denver, CO 80207 soul2soulsisters.org

Struggle of Love Foundation (SOLF)

A Beacon of Hope in Denver

SOLF is a dynamic 501(c)3 Colorado non-profit organization. Founded in 2000 by Joel and Lakeshia Hodge, SOLF operates with a mission to address the immediate needs of families while fostering long-term, sustainable growth. Their vision is to promote and create holistic lifestyles through mentorship, intervention, prevention, health, and wellness.

SOLF offers free community resources such as food, mentorship and leadership for youth, workforce development, out-of-school summer and winter camps, community service opportunities, mental health therapy, gang mediation and intervention, sports events, game nights, community events, a music studio, and a safe space at the Montbello and Aurora LOVE Centers where people can find peace, fun, and community.

SOLF offers various programs tailored to different age groups and needs. One of its standout services is the Sacks of Love food pantry, which addresses immediate needs and offers a lifeline to families struggling with economic hardship.

Community Engagement & Advocacy

The Foundation strongly emphasizes community engagement and advocacy. Through partnerships with local businesses, schools, and other nonprofits, SOLF organizes community events and drives that foster a sense of unity and mutual support. Their annual events, such as the Reach 4 Peace Picnic, Back to School Giveaway, and others, have become staples in the community, providing critical resources and bringing people together in a spirit of solidarity.

In addition to their direct services, SOLF actively advocates for systemic change by participating in policy discussions and community planning efforts. They work to ensure that the voices of the underserved are heard and that their needs are met at both local and state levels.

The Struggle of Love Foundation’s holistic approach and unwavering commitment to the community make it a beacon of hope and support. By addressing immediate and long-term needs, SOLF is helping individuals survive and thrive, paving the way for a stronger, more resilient community.

Struggle of Love Foundation

Ashley Smith

Community Wellness Liaison

Montbello: 2000 E. 47th Avenue Denver, CO 80239

Aurora: 9715 E. Colfax Avenue Aurora, CO 80010 struggleoflovefoundation.org

YouthSeen

Empowering LGBTQ+ Youth Through Community and Support

YouthSeen is a pioneering organization dedicated to the empowerment, support, and advocacy of LGBTQ+ youth. Founded on inclusion, equity, and social justice principles, YouthSeen aims to create a world where all young people, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity, can thrive.

YouthSeen’s mission is to foster a supportive and inclusive community for LGBTQ+ youth. This is achieved by providing resources, education, and advocacy to ensure every young person feels seen, heard, and valued. The organization envisions a future where LGBTQ+ youth have the tools and support to lead fulfilling and authentic lives.

YouthSeen offers a variety of programs and services designed to meet the unique needs of LGBTQ+ youth. These include mental health counseling, peer support groups, educational workshops, and leadership development opportunities. By addressing the specific challenges faced by LGBTQ+ youth, YouthSeen helps to build resilience and promote mental and emotional well-being.

Mental Health and Wellness

Understanding the mental health challenges that LGBTQ+ youth often face, YouthSeen places a strong emphasis on mental health and wellness. The organization provides access to counseling services with professionals who are trained in LGBTQ+ issues. These services create a safe and affirming space where young people can explore their identities and experiences.

YouthSeen believes in the power of community and works to create spaces where LGBTQ+ youth can connect. Through events, social gatherings, and online forums, YouthSeen fosters a sense of belonging and community. This network of support helps to combat isolation and provides young people with the opportunity to form meaningful relationships.

YouthSeen is also committed to advocacy and education, creating systemic change, and promoting understanding and acceptance of LGBTQ+ individuals. The organization conducts educational workshops and training sessions for schools, businesses, and community organizations. These efforts aim to reduce stigma, increase awareness, and promote inclusivity.

YouthSeen’s work is made possible through the support of generous donors, volunteers, and community partners. By getting involved, individuals can help to create a brighter future for LGBTQ+ youth. Whether through volunteering, donating, or participating in events, many ways exist to support YouthSeen’s mission.

YouthSeen provides comprehensive programs and an unwavering commitment to inclusion and equity. YouthSeen is making a profound impact on the lives of countless young individuals. Together, we can ensure that every LGBTQ+ youth feel seen, heard, and empowered.

YouthSeen Dr. Tara Jae youthseen.org

HIV / AIDS

Compassionate Care in Colorado

Knowledge, prevention, and support are essential. Access vital information, resources, and services related to HIV/ AIDS in the Black community. Find local testing centers, treatment options, and organizations dedicated to ending this chronic disease in Colorado.

Beacon Center for Infectious Disease

HIV clinic based at Boulder Community Health

4800 Riverbend Road, Ste. 200 Boulder, CO 80301 303-415-8850

bch.org/locations/beacon-center-forinfectious-diseases

Colorado Health Network/Colorado AIDS Project

Provides supportive services to HIV+ individuals. Provides HIV/STI/HCV testing to the general community. 6260 E. Colfax Avenue Denver, CO 80220 303-837-1501

400 Remington Street, Ste. 100 Fort Collins, CO 80524 970-484-4469

1001 Wellington Avenue Grand Junction, CO 81501 970-243-2437

807 N. Greenwood Street, Ste. Pueblo, CO 81003 719-621-11095

807 17th Street Greeley, 80631 970-353-1177 coloradohealthnetwork.org

Children’s Hospital Immunodeficiency Program (CHIP)

Pediatric HIV clinic serving HIV positive pregnant women and children 13123 E. 16th Avenue Aurora, CO 80045 720-777-8233 childrenscolorado.org

Colorado AIDS Education and Training Center

Conducts targeted education and training for healthcare providers on all aspects of HIV Academic Office 1, Room 7402 126321 E. 17th Avenue, MS A089 Aurora, CO 80045 303-724-0646 coloradoaetc.org

Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment

STI/HIV Department

4300 Cherry Creek South Drive, A-3 Denver, CO 80246

303-692-6415 colorado.gov/cdphe

Empowerment Program

Women’s program providing education, health, housing, employee assistance, and supportive services 1600 York Street Denver, CO 80206

303-320-1989 info@empowermentprogram.org empowermentprogram.org

Howard Dental Center

Dental Care for HIV patients 6260 E. Colfax Avenue Denver, CO 80220

303-863-0772 coloradohealthnetwork.org

Northern AIDS Project

Provides HIV supportive services to residents in Larimer, Weld, Morgan, Logan, Washington, Sedwick, Yuma, and Phillips Counties

970-484-4469

Peak Vista Collaborative Care Clinic at Academy

Provides primary and specialty care to people living with HIV

3207 N. Academy Boulevard Ste. 3100 & 3500 Colorado Springs, CO 80917 719-632-5700 peakvista.org

Public Health Institute at Denver Health

Provides comprehensive specialty and primary care for HIV patients 601 N. Broadway Denver, CO 80203 303-602-3700 phidenverhealth.org

Pueblo Community Health Center

Provides comprehensive primary and specialty care, including HIV care

110 E. Routt Avenue

Pueblo, CO 81004

719-543-8718 pueblochc.org

Servicios de la Raza

Provides a range of services for those living with HIV 3131 W. 14th Avenue Denver, CO 80204 303-458-5851

805 W. 4th Place

Pueblo, CO 81003

719-359-4240

info@serviciosdelaraza.org serviciosdelaraza.org/services/hivand-sti-services

Southern AIDS Project/Colorado Health Network Colorado Springs Offers preventive care and case management services for Colorado Springs

1301 S. 8th Street, Ste. 200 Colorado Springs, CO 80906 719-578-9092

St. Mary’s Hospital Medical Center

Provides comprehensive medical care to people living with HIV throughout 22 Western counties Western Counties, CO 970-298-1735

University of Colorado Hospital Infectious Disease Group Practice

Provides primary, specialty, and supportive care for persons living with HIV. OffersTelePrEP and Telemedicine. 1635 Aurora Court, Anschutz Outpatient Pavilion 7th Floor Aurora, CO 80045 720-848-0191 idgp.org

Vivent Health

Medical care (HIV & Primary Care), prevention services, food pantry, pharmacy, dental, housing support. 5250 Leetsdale Drive, Ste. 300 Denver, CO 80246 303-393-8050

Holistic Health

Find Balance in the Heart of Colorado

Cultivate inner peace and physical well-being through holistic practices like yoga and Tai Chi. Led by Black instructors who create a welcoming and inclusive space, these practices offer a path to harmony and self-discovery.

Accelerate Health

Alisha Dawn McKenzie

Licensed Massage Therapist 2599 Wadsworth Boulevard Lakewood, CO 80214 303-863-8330 acceleratehealthdenver.com

Beautiful Moon Health and Wellness

Don Ingram

Massage Therapist 2101 S. Blackhawk Street, #240 Parker, CO 80138 720-544-3801 info@beautifulmoonwellness.com

Curious Sunshine

Sarah Iverson

Wellness workshops, coaching Denver, CO curioussunshineinfo@gmail.com curioussunshine.com

Don’t Look Back Center

Corinthiah Brown

Jiridon Apothecary

Monticue Connally

Certified Medicine Herbalist Denver, CO 80202 720-203-9008

jiridonapothecary@gmail.com

Natural Flow of Life

Acupuncture & Herbs

Corey Brown 4875 E. Evans Avenue, #102 Denver, CO 80222 720-443-0316

corey@naturalflowoflifeacu.com naturalflowoflifeacu.com

The Boss Group

LaShay Canady

Family Leadership Development

Coaching, Public Health Consulting, Public Health Consulting 14901 E. Hampden Avenue, Ste. 260 Aurora, CO 80014 303-886-0673 lasha.canady@gmail.com

The Ebony Yogini

Lesley Pace-Gormley Wellness, yoga, meditation, minfulness theebonyyogini@gmail.com lesleypaceyoga.com

Urban Sanctuary

Ali Duncan

Yoga 2745 Welton Street Denver, CO 80205 303-993-2420 urbansanctuary.love

YinFire Acupuncture

Timothy Farad 1761 Ogden Street Denver, CO 80218 720-432-7634 tsf@yinfire.com yinfire.com

Apprentice of Peace

Tai Chi, Yoga, Zumba

Maternal Health

Empowering Colorado Mothers

Embrace the transformative journey of motherhood with compassionate Black doulas and midwives who provide culturally sensitive support and guidance throughout pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum. Experience a birth experience that honors your traditions and empowers your choices.

The Importance of Policy for Black Maternal Health

One of the reasons I became a state legislator was to give my community a voice and provide a seat at the table to those who had not had one. Throughout my career, one of my main priorities has been improving the maternal health landscape in Colorado.

Janet P. Buckner State Senator District 29

The preventable maternal mortality and morbidity crisis has only grown worse over the last several years in Colorado and across the country, especially for Black, Indigenous, and rural birthing people. A complex solution that gets to the root of the issue is essential and includes ensuring that all people can give birth how and where they want.

Multiple factors significantly hinder the ability of birthing people to have a joyful and affirming birth, and these factors are best addressed through policy. That’s why maternal health policy is so important. It creates a baseline of care and communication that every birthing person should have access to during their pregnancy and postpartum journey.

HEALTH LITERACY

Doula: A non-medical professional that provides emotional and physical comfort to a pregnant person before, during, and after childbirth. Doulas are trained to advise, inform, and offer support. They provide compassion, education, and advocacy to support the birthing person’s decisions.

Doulas help to improve health outcomes and advance health equity. Birth worker is another term that is used interchangeably with doula.

Ensuring That Policies Work

Maternal health policy is a complex issue. As legislators, we pass the policy and then hand it off to those on the ground doing the work to implement it. A lot of times, this can cause a disconnect. One of the most important things we can do as legislators is to pay attention after a policy is passed. We must listen to those on the ground doing the work, understand the issues they are having, and then go back to the drawing board to update the policy. This is something I pride myself on as a legislator. If that disconnect exists, it is my responsibility to continue the fight at the State Capitol to ensure that policies and procedures work the way we intended.

One of the most important things we can do as legislators is to pay attention after a policy is passed. We must listen to those on the ground doing the work, understand the issues they are having, and then go back to the drawing board to update the policy.

Birth should be a joyful experience, and I know so many dedicated individuals, organizations, and coalitions who work tirelessly to ensure the safety of all birthing people. We still have a long way to go, but I am confident that, as a collective, we can ensure that all birthing people have the right to a safe pregnancy and postpartum journey.

Midwife: A professional with advanced medical training who helps birth persons before, during, and after delivery. They usually deliver low-risk births. They may deliver babies at birthing centers, homes, and hospitals. Midwives have a holistic approach, focusing on physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. They often collaborate with a medical professional specializing in pregnancy (obstetrician).

Certified Nurse Midwives (CNM) are usually registered nurses (RNs) who have completed midwifery education and passed a national test.

MIDWIVES

E’jaaz Abdulkabir, CNM Midwife

Denver Health/Women’s Care Clinic

790 Delaware Street, Pavilion C Denver, CO 80204

303-436-4949 denverhealth.org

 Medicaid

Ashley Character, CNM Midwife

Denver Health/Women’s Care Clinic

790 Delaware Street, Pavilion C Denver, CO 80204 303-436-4949 denverhealth.org

 Medicaid

Margaret Croslen, CNM, MSN Midwife

Peak Vista Community Health Center 225 S. Union Boulevard, 2nd Floor Colorado Springs, CO 80910 719-394-7670 peadkvista.org

Amber Johnson, CNM Midwife

Denver Health/Women’s Care Clinic

790 Delaware Street Pavilion C Denver, CO 80204

303-436-4949 denverhealth.org

 Medicare/Medicaid

DOULAS

Shelby Irvin Doula

The Soulful Mama, LLC Colorado Springs, CO 719-425-6171 thesoulfulmamallc@gmail.com

Mama Bird Doulas

Offers medical support, essential support, mental health support, and housing support (low income single parents). 15200 E. Girard Avenue, Ste. 3100 Aurora, CO 80014 720-240-6133 mamabirdinc.com

Angel Smith Doula Fountain, CO 80817 770-276-5324 doula1@gmail.com

Soul 2 Soul Sisters Birth Workers

Sacred Seed’s workers are trained non-medical professionals. Sacred Seeds Black Birth Collective of Colorado soul2soulsisters.org/sacred-seedsblack-birthworker-collective-ofcolorado

Crystal Swanson Doula

Active Peace Maternity and Massage Colorado Springs, CO 719-203-5793 connect@birthcircle.com birthcircle.com

Yolanda Washington Doula

Lactation Education, and My Newborn and Me classes.

Now You Lay Me Down To Sleep 6105 S Main Street, Ste. 200 Aurora, CO 80016 303-731-0534 nowyoulaymedowntosleep.com yolanda@nowyoulaymedowntosleep. com

OTHER RESOURCES

Malama Vita Maternal Health and Wellness Practitioner

The Birth Journey, A Maternal Wellness & Mental Health Practice Northglenn, CO 80260 themilkthatbuiltamerica@gmail.com blacktation.com

Whitney Dunlap, IBCLC Lactation Consultant 443-223-2452 themilkthatbuiltamerica@gmail. com

WEBSITES & HOTLINES

Poppy Seed Health

Virtual support for pregnancy, postpartum and loss support. poppyseedhealth.com

PSI HelpLine 1-800-944-4773

U.S. National Maternal Mental Health Hotline 1-833-943-5746

General Suicide and Crisis Lifeline 988

Postpartum Support International (PSI) postpartum.net

Mental Health

Prioritizing Your Mental Well-Being

Mental health is just as important as physical health. Find solace and support from culturally competent therapists and mental health professionals in Colorado who understand the unique challenges faced by the Black community. Take the first step towards emotional wellness and healing.

Black Mental Health and Religion in Our Queer Community

For many Black Americans, the Black Church has been a place of refuge, community, and support. But what happens when that community rejects a person because they are Queer? Black Queers have experienced mental and psychological harm at the hands of the Black Church. Community support plays a vital role in healing from that harm. We seek to offer a path toward restitution for ALL Black folks, affirming and celebrating LGBTQIA+ Black folks as worthy of care, community, and safety.

The Human Rights Campaign Foundation conducted a study on Black LGBTQIA+ youth and the compounding challenges they face. Regarding faith and spirituality, the report concludes that religion, faith, and spirituality are vital aspects of many Black people’s lives. Yet, there remains much work to include Black LGBTQIA+ youth in their faith communities fully. There is an urgent need for more inclusive faith communities!

We Must Do Better

A staggering 77% of Black LGBTQIA+ youth were raised religious. Among those, 63.1% said their religion was unfriendly to LGBTQIA+ people. 54.5% said their religious beliefs triggered feelings of guilt and shame when they came out as an LGBTQIA+ person. Only a quarter (25.9%) said their faith community leaders support and include them as LGBTQIA+ persons. It is no surprise that 58.6% of Black LGBTQIA+ youth screened positive for depression, and 38.6% screened positive for anxiety. These responses are alarming. We must do better!

The Rev. Kelly Brown Douglass’ book, Sexuality and the Black Church: A Womanist Perspective, provides a historical account of the homophobia within the Black Church. Brown Douglass posits that one central reason Black folks neglect to talk about sex and sexuality is an underlying fear that the white enslavers were right about Black people being brutish, licentious, impure non-humans. This internalized fear has resulted in immense damage to the psyche and lived reality of Black personhood.

In Brown Douglass’ research, she reveals that among many pre-slavery African cultures, there is evidence of same-sex relationships. Brown Douglass deals with the Biblical text and how Black Christians’ use of the Bible is akin to the way enslavers used the text as a “biblical tradition of terror.”

Brown Douglass notes that the biblical tradition of terror is what justified slavery, what justifies homophobia and transphobia currently. She notes that the biblical text is largely unclear about its stance on homosexuality. Thus, she concludes that likely, homophobic biases are influencing interpretations of the text, rather than the text being outright homophobic. Recognition of this phenomenon matters. It reveals that in the hope of freedom and civility, Black Christians have attempted to use the master’s tools to dismantle the master’s house only for these tools to fortify Black folks within the house of white oppression.

Our Black LGBTQIA+ youth and siblings are hurting. Many have been pushed out of their communities, demonized, and rejected. What if part of addressing the depression and anxiety rates among Black folks starts with acceptance of Black LGBTQIA+ folks within our religious spaces? What if instead of rejecting each other, we rejected white supremacy along with its precepts and morals that do not serve our communities? What if we determined that ALL Black folks were worthy of support, community, connection, and care? What if this is how we become the salt and light of the earth?

Alexis “Lex” Dunbar Joint Ph.D. student in the Study of Religion University of Denver and Iliff School of Theology

Evelyn Abram, LCSW Therapist

Kaiser Permanente Highline Behavioral Health Center

10350 E. Dakota Avenue, Ste. B Denver, CO 80247 303-471-7700 healthy.kaiserpermanente.org

 Telehealth

 Medicare/Medicaid

Kareem Ahmenatu Life Coach Shadow Integration Coaching To Heal a People 303-564-3079 kam5@rocketmail.com tohealapeople.com

Eugene Battle, LPC Counselor

Battleground Counseling 14261 E.4th Avenue, Building 6, Ste. 170 Aurora, CO 80011 816-882-0569 battleground.counseling@gmail.com

 Telehealth

Selam Beyene, LCSW

Cognitive Behavior Therapy

Anxiety, depression, grief, and loss Open Path to Psychotherapy Collective

1311 Race Street Denver, CO 80206 info@openpathcollective.org openpathcollective.org

 Telehealth

Brandon Michael Bolden, LMFT, CIGT Marriage and Family Therapist 2101 S. Blackhawk Street, Ste. 240 Aurora, CO 80014 720- 279-4654

Harvey Bowden, BS, CAS Mental Health and Wellness, Substance Abuse and Harm Reduction Support Mile High Resilience and Wellness 720-275-1903 milehighrw@gmail.com

Billie Brent Families, couples, adolescents and individuals. Not taking new clients

Billie S Brent Counseling, LLC 3532 N. Franklin Street, Ste. E1 Denver, CO 80205 720-314-9921

Chelsey Brown, MA, LPCC Counselor

Amber Counseling 1777 S. Bellaire Street, #419 Denver, CO 80222 303-622-0467

info@ambercounseling.com ambercounseling.com

 Telehealth

Roy Burns, LPCC Counselor

Menelik Counseling Services 13696 E. Iliff Avenue, Ste 122 Aurora CO 80014

3035 W. 25th Avenue Denver, CO 80211

720-792-6524

roy@mcounseling.co

 Telehealth

Giovanni Casseus, LPCC

Mental Health Counseling 2255 Sheridan Blvd C224 Edgwater, CO 80214 720-575-9889 info@khesedwellness.com khesedwellness.com

Ayonna Chappell, LPC

Therapy Diverus Health 115 S. Parkside Drive Colorado Springs, CO 80910 719-572-6100

 Telehealth

Brenda Clark Dandridge MA, LPC

Individual, couples, and family counseling

Victory Counseling 13693 E. Iliff Avenue, Ste. 112 Aurora, CO 80014

720-808-0924

 Telehealth

Julie Clockston MSW, LSW

Individual and group therapy

Julie Clockston Counseling LLC

2101 S. Blackhawk Street. Ste. 240 Aurora, CO 80014 505-585-4312 juliejmsw@gmail.com juliejmsw.wixsite.com/counseling  Telehealth

Jasmine Crane, MS, MA, NCC, LPC Couples, families, adolescents Transcendent Counseling 6746 S. Revere Parkway, Ste. 135 Centennial, CO 80112 720- 580-1729 jasminecrane@ transcendentcounseling.com  Telehealth  Medicare/Medicaid

Randall Craven, LPC, CAC III Individual/family, couples, youth Craven & Associates Counseling LLC 12101 E. 2nd Avenue, Ste. 201-A Aurora, CO 80011 720-331-4878 craven-counseling.com

Eboni Davis, MSW, LCSW-C Life/Health Coach Gay, Lesbian, Non-Binary, Transgender Allied Colorado Springs, CO 80920 719-581-4943

Tarsha Degay MA, LPCC, NCC Counselor 1210 S Parker Road, Ste. 104 Denver, CO 80231 303-338-4545

KP Permanente Provider

Dr. Ivy Donaldson, PhD Counselor

St. Anthony’s North Family MedicineCommon Spirit 14300 Orchard Parkway Westminister, CO 80023 720-627-4075

Kemba Douglas,MA

Registered Therapist

Inner Movement Counseling, LLC Broomfield/Denver, CO 720-634-6698

Innermovementcounseling@gmail. com

 Telehealth

Devon Edwards, LPCC, MA Counselor

2727 Bryant Street, #430 Denver, CO 80211

720-644-2086 info@collectivecounselingsolutions. com collectivecounselingsolutions.com/ therapist/devon-edwards  Telehealth

Christine Foster, DNP, PMHNP-BC, CNL Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner 719-581-6072 forestpathpsychiatry.com  Telehealth

Felicidad X. Fraser-Solak, LCSW Therapist - individual, group, trauma Grace in Balance 12213 Pecos St. Suite #300 Westminster, CO 80234 720-629-9441 info@graceinbalance.com graceinbalance.com

Regina Ann Grace Psychotherapist

Grace Counseling Services, LLC Aurora, CO 80047 405-306-0510

Nathaniel Granger, Jr., PsyD Psychotherapist 1767 S. 8th Avenue, Ste. 260 Colorado Springs, CO 80920 719-229-6255 rmhcpa.org

Tanya Greathouse, LCSW, Ph.D. Assistant Professor of Social Work Metropolitan State University of Denver PO Box 173362 CB 70 Denver, CO 80217 303-615-0498 msudenver.edu

Evelyn Green, LPC, CST Provides a safe environment to solve sexual and couple problems. Denver Sex Therapy 3500 E. 17th Avenue, Suite # 3 Denver, CO 80206 303-333-4074

Shalonda Haggerty, MA MFTC

Couples, group, individual, and family Empowerment Counseling and Consulting Center 2360 Dayton St. Denver, CO 80010 720-583-5951 empowerme@stargirlzempower.org  Telehealth

Michael Hardin, MA, LPC, PsyD candidate

Sports performance, child, LBTQ+ 631 S. Depew Street Lakewood, CO 80226 720-513-2646 mhardin@powerupperformance.org  Medicaid

Andrew Harris, LPC, MA, ADDC, NCC Play therapy, Individual and family counseling.

Colorado Mental Health Network 4700 Oakland Street, Ste. 150 Denver, CO 80239 720-459-4377

333 W. Hampden Place, Ste. 920 Englewood, CO 80110 720-593-8729

info@cmhn.us cmhn.us/staff/andrew-harris

Jendayi Harris, M.A.

Christian counseling and workshops Next Level Therapy 13693 E Iliff Avenue, 112 Aurora, CO 80014 720- 640-8869 info@nextleveltherapyllc.com nextleveltherapyllc.com

Nicole Harrison, MA, MFT-C Anxiety, depression, family Issues, grief, Loss, LGBTQIA+, and Trauma. Virtual

Bruised Not Broken Therapy 2101 S. Blackhawk Street, Ste. 240 Aurora, CO 80014 720-434-6972

bruisednotbrokentherapy.com

 Telehealth

April Harter, LCSW Clinical Social Worker/Therapist. Trauma and racial trauma therapy 2125 N. Academy Blvd Colorado Springs, CO 80909 719-356-3643 aprilharter.com

Steven Harvey, PLLC, LCSW Therapist

Colors of Strength

7200 E Hampden Avenue, Ste. C-207 Denver, CO 80224 844-262-7978 colorsofstrength.com  Medicaid

Javonni Henderson, LCSW Licensed Clinical Social Worker/ Therapist Beautiful Moon Health & Wellness 2101 S. Blackhawk Street, #240 Aurora, CO 80014 720-544-3801 info@beautifulmoonwellness.com beautifulmoonwellness.com

JoKatherine Holliman Page, MSW, LCSW Consultation and Treatment. Women and families, psycho-educational training HP & Associates Denver, CO 303-333-7335

Tricia Hudson, Ph.D., CAC III Private Practice. Individual and family counseling. Cross Cultural Counseling and Consulting Center 12101 E. 2nd Avenue, Ste. 201-E Aurora, CO 80011 720-436-955

Sheila Hughes, MA, LPC, LAC Licensed Professional Counselor and Licensed Addiction Counselor Glow up Counseling. LLC 18121 E. Hampden Avenue, C 1282 Aurora, CO 80013 720-277-9728 glowupcounselingllc@gmail.com glowupcounseling.com

Dr. Tara Jae, PhD, MFA Psychotherapist. Racial identity, transgender Youth Seen Broomfield/Denver, CO 970-985-9343 info@youthseen.org youthseen.org  Telehealth

Jaurene James-Blacklock, LPC

Licensed Therapist. Individual/ family/substance abuse therapy; relapse prevention/ DUI groups Changing Patterns, LLC 12101 E. 2nd Avenue, Ste. 108 Aurora, CO 80011

720-523-0710

 Medicaid

Matthew Jarvis, MA, M.Ed, LPC, LAC, EMDR

Licensed Professional Counselor and Licensed Addictions Counselor. Addictive behaviors, relationships, anxiety, depression, PTSD Courage to Change Counseling Services, LLC 1633 Fillmore Street Denver, CO 80206 720- 636-9420 denveraddictionhelp.com

Janelle Johnson, MA, LPC, NCC

Licensed Professional Counselor

Relationship conflict, emotional regulation, anxiety, and grief & loss Life Balance Counseling

3190 S. Vaughn Way, Ste. 550 Aurora, CO 80014 720-940-9299 lifebalancecounseling@hotmail.com janellejohnson.org

Ralph Jones, EdD, EdS, DAPA, CFI, LMFT

Marriage & Family Therapist Family Works 90 Madison Street, Ste. 100 Denver, CO 80206 720-513-2019

 Medicaid

Melanie Klinke, MFTC

Marriage & Family Therapist Associate. Virtual therapy sessions Healing Works 720-388-6320 info@healingworks.co healingworks.co

Geofrey Kosgei,NP Family Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practioner 301 N. Main Street, Ste. 114 Pueblo, CO 80103 719-781-3381

Betsaida Kringel, MSW Counselor

The Center for Trauma and Resilience P.O. Box 18975 Denver, CO 80218

303- 894-8000 HELP LINE

Hassan Latif, CACIII

Addiction Counselor. Community reentry program, addiction counseling Second Chance Center 224 Potomac Street Aurora, CO 80011

303-537-5838

info@SCCcolorado.org scccolorado.org

Brandon Lee, LMFT

Marriage & Family Therapist Family Care Center Lowry 63 N. Quebec, #201 Denver, CO 80230 720-637-3840

Reo N.Leslie, Jr., D Min., LPC, LMFT, NCC, RPT-S, CAC I

Dr. Evelyn Leslie, LMFT, RPT-S, LAC. MAC

Marriage and Family Therapist, Addiction Therapy

Colorado School for Family Therapy 12101 E. 2nd Avenue, Ste. 101 Aurora, CO 80011

720-253-4831 drLeslie@familyplaytherapy.net familyplaytherapy.net

Rev. Marjorie B Lewis Ph.D., D. Min., LMFT, LAC, CSPT

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. Addictions Counselor. Rehabilitation and Reentry Center For Community Excellence And Social Justice 1600 N. Downing Street, Ste. 200 Aurora, CO 80218 303-831-4500

Jerrod D. McCoy, MA ,LPC Licensed Professional Counselor. Coping skills, internet addiction, divorce. Men only divorce group in Greeley and Denver, CO 970-302-2107

Will Miles, Ph.D

Licensed Clinical Psychologist | Therapy and Consultation

Will Miles & Associates 1839 York Street, Ste. 210 Denver, CO 80206 303- 321-9001

Brian Milton, LPC, LAC Licensed Counselor, Counselor, Child and Adolescent Mental Health, and Substance Abuse Denver Health

301 W. 6th Ave Denver, CO 80204 303-436-4949 denverhealth.com  Telehealth  Medicare/Medicaid/CHIP

Anastasia Mitchell, LPC Mental Health Counselor and Art Therapist. Trauma, PTSD, LGBTQ+ Contractor Forward Family Therapy 2950 W. 6th Avenue, #212 Broomfield, CO 80020 720-821-7341 fyfcounseling@gmail.com westsidebehavioralcare.com/ therapist/anastasia-mitchell  Telehealth

Sakina Mohamed Ali, MA, MFTC Marriage and Family Therapist. InnerRhythm Counseling

390 S. Potomac Way, Ste. C Denver, CO 80012 720-334-8276 sakina@innerrhythmcounseling.com

Sakina Mohamed Ali, MA, MFTC Marriage and Family Therapist. Virtual therapy sessions Healing Works 720-388-6320 info@healingworks.co healingworks.co

Nicole Moore, BA, MSW, LCSW Psychotherapist, holistic healing practices

Compassionate Counseling of Denver 8 E. 1st Avenue, Ste. 108 Denver, CO 80203 720-743-4877

Rikki Moore, MA. LPCC

Integrative Gestalt Therapist. Teens, college students, adult couples Therapists of Color Collaborative 303-881-1101

Nicole Moore, LCSW Counseling. Weaves ancestral healing and clinical psychotherapeutic modalities

Compassionate Counseling of Denver 8 E. 1st Avenue, Ste. 108 Denver, CO 80203 720-743-4877

April Ouedraogo, MA, EDS

Registered Psychotherapist, school psychology

All for One Health Center Clinic 9233 Park Meadows Drive, Ste. 131 Lonetree, CO 80124 720-364-5120

Cathy Phelps, MA, LCSW, RYT 200 Acudetox Specialist

The Center for Trauma & Resilience P.O. Box 18975 Denver, CO 80218 traumahealth.org

Dr. James Pickney III. LPC, ACS, PSYC Licensed Professional Counselor and Psychologist candidate. Individual, post cardiac surgical PTSD, Traumatic brain injury therapy 545 Third Avenue. Ste 128 Monument, CO 80132 303- 909-9952 jamesfitt@phymail.com drjamespinkney.com

Shanitra Potier, MA Mental Health Professional Diversus Health 115 S. Parkside Drive Colorado Springs, CO 80910 719-572-6100

Phyllis Radney Family Counseling Restore Health & Counseling, Inc. 4705 Paris Street Denver, CO 80239 303-373-1188 rhctherapy.com

 Medicare/Medicaid

Tonya Rozencwajg Addiction Counselor

Our Inheritance LLC

2323 S. Troy Street Aurora, CO 80014 720- 227-8750

Dorothy Sanchez, LPC

Licensed Professional Counselor. Couples, individuals, children, and family therapy.

6638 W. Ottawa Avenue, Suite 140-3 Littleton, CO 80128

720-275-6890

deemilligan06@comcast.net dorothyrsanchezlpc.com

 Medicare/Medicaid

Marlon Sango, MA,CAS, LPCC, LMFTC, NCC Counselor

Field of Vision Counseling 2121 S Oneida Street, Ste. 175 Denver, CO 80224

720-668-6482 fieldofvisioncounseling.com

Melisa Sanzone, LPC, R-DMT

Somatic Psychotherapist. Sex and Relationship Therapist Boulder, CO 80301

303-726-0187

 Telehealth

Atsede Scarseth, MA, LPC, CYT, NCC, CIGT

Registered Psychotherapist Unearthing Choice Counseling 1155 N. Sherman Street, Ste. 306 Denver, CO 80203

303-625-6853

 Telehealth

Rossina Schroeer-Santiago, MA, LPCC, NCC, GCDF

Professional Counselor. Life transitions, depression, behavioral issues

Element of Discovery, LLC

1210 S. Parker Road, Ste. 210 Denver, CO 80231

720-724-9905

elementofdiscovery.com

Jason Shankle, MA, LPCC, CCBT, CFM, CAP, CMIT

Relationship and Addiction Specialist. Individual, family, couples therapy

Inner Self and Wisdom LLC 1633 Filmore Street, Ste. 103 Denver, CO 80206

720-651-2556

jason@innerselfandwisdom.com innerselfandwisdom.com

 Telehealth

Ambrosia Shepard, LPC Counselor

Kaiser Permananente E. Northfield Behavioral Health Center 8354 Northfield Blvd, Ste. 3700 Denver, CO 80238

720-477-4841

ambrosia-shepard.clientsecure.me

Khem Shepsutera, MA, LCSW, LAC Clinical Therapist. Specializes in relationship issues, trauma, PTSD, and addiction. LBTQ allied. Denver, CO 80231

720-513-6270

 Telehealth

Michelle Simmons, LPC, LLC

Licensed Professional Counselor. Individual, family, and group Therapy Michelle Simmons Counseling Group, PLLC

10059 E. Bethany Drive, Ste. 210 Aurora, CO 80014

12000 E. 47th Avenue, #113” Denver, CO 80239

303-732-6881

info@mrscounseling.com mrscounseling.com

 Telehealth

 Medicaid

Amber N. Smith, MA, M.Ed, LPC Licensed Therapist. Families, Children and Adolescents, Trauma Centus Counseling

3701 Colorado Boulevard Denver, CO 80205

303-319-9823 centus.org

Dawn Tripp Director SW

Colorado Mental Health Hospital Pueblo

1600 W. 24th Street Pueblo, CO 81003 719-546-4000 cdhs.colorado.gov/CMHHIP

Michelle Tyrus, Ph.D. Life coach 14241 E. 4th Avenue, 135 Aurora, CO 80011 720-296-8613

Pamala Vaughn, CSW, LSW Therapist

Divine Shyne Therapy 2000 S. Colorado Boulevard Boulevard. 1-2000 Denver, CO 80222 720-392-9846

Nancy Vega MA, LPC

Psychotherapist. Individuals, couples, family therapy.

13693 E. Iliff Avenue, #112 Aurora, CO 80014 720-280-6161 nvscounseling.com

Desarae Lisa Walker, MA, CECP Cognitive Behavioral Specialist. PTSD and Trauma.

2020 N. Academy Boulevard, Ste. 385 Colorado Springs, CO 80909 719-822-0386

 Medicaid

Gwendolyn Walker, RPT, MSW, MSS, B.DIV

Psychotherapist. Individuals, couples, grief and loss, depression. Spiritual. Metamorphosis Counseling Services, LLC 11973 E. Canal Drive Aurora, CO 80011

720-605-1451

 Telehealth

DeAnna Welch, MA, LPC

Multicultural Counseling. Rediscovering Real Denver, CO 80211 720-401-5554 deanna@rediscoveringreal.com rediscoveringreal.com

Alice West-Goers LCSW Therapist

AWG Counseling Services 1210 S. Parker Road, #210 Denver, CO 80231 720-988-9482

info@Alicewestgoers.com awgcounseling.com

Michael Wilkins, LCSW Family Therapist Comitis Crisis Center 2178 Victor Street Aurora, CO 80045

303-341-9160

Sherrie Elizabeth Williams-Rowe, MA, LPC

Licensed Professional Counselor. LGBTQ+, individual, couples, adolescent Evans Counseling PLLC

1776 S. Jackson Street, Ste. 30C Denver, CO 80209

720-306-1383

evanscounselingdenver.com

 Telehealth

 Medicaid

Linda Williams, MA, LPC, CAC III RPT

Therapy Marriage and Family Therapy, Trauma Therapy

303-861-2004

 Telehealth

 Medicaid

JaLisa Williams, MSW, LCSW Therapist. BIPOC, Queer folk, teens Yemaya Innergy Therapeutics 390 S. Potomac Way, Ste. C Aurora, CO 80012 720-463-4167

Brittney Wright, MA,LPC, NCC Therapist. Virtual. Waiting list Healing Words Counseling 1210 S. Parker Rd, Ste. 210 Denver, CO 80231 720-248-8774 healingwordscounseling.com

Rich Yeager, PhD Psychotherapist

Blue Lotus Counseling and Coaching

2851 S. Parker Road, Ste. 140 Aurora, CO 80014 719-749-6860 richard@ bluelotuscounselingandcoaching.com  Telehealth

Anthony Young, Ph.D.

Senior Partner Clinical Training and Consultant

4419 Centennial Boulevard, Ste. 352 Colorado Springs, CO 80907 719-337-6409

Therapist of Color Collaborative

All therapists are professionals of color who are culturally grounded and deliver responsive, sensitive, and trauma-informed services to our community.

1210 S. Parker Road, Ste. 210 Denver, CO 80231 303-881-1101 therapistofcolor.com

Colorado Crisis Line

Support and counseling for individuals or loved ones Text 988 or 38255 1-844-493-TALK coloradocrisisservices.org

Optometrists

See the Beauty of Colorado Clearly

The world is full of wonders waiting to be seen. Find Black optometrists in your area who offer comprehensive eye exams, personalized vision solutions, and a commitment to preserving your precious gift of sight.

Dr. Richard Cross, OD

General Eye Exams

Boulder Visions Associates

5305 Spine Road, Suite B Boulder, CO 80301

303-530-2020

bouldervision.com

 Medicaid

Dr. Janice Jarrett, OD

General Eye Exams

Eye Envy Vision, Inc.

700 S. Buckley Road, Unit K Aurora, CO 80017

720-762-4290

eyeenvyvision.com

Dr. Angela Bryant, OD

Vision Care

Eye Envy Vision, Inc.

700 S. Buckley Road, Unit K Aurora, CO 80017

720-762-4290

eyenvyvision.com

Dr. Fayiz O. Mahgoub, OD

General Eye Exams

Boulder Visions Associates 5305 Spine Road, Suite B Boulder, CO 80301

303-530-2020

bouldervision.com

 Medicaid

Seniors

Golden Years, Golden Opportunities

Age is just a number. Embrace the richness of experience and wisdom with resources and services tailored to the needs of Black seniors in Colorado. Find support groups and activities that promote healthy aging, vibrant living, and continued engagement.

Aging While Black

At Aging While Black, our vision is clear: a society where Black elders are celebrated, supported, and empowered to thrive in every aspect of life. We recognize the unique challenges and rich cultural heritage that define the experience of Black elders, shaped by a history of social, economic, and political inequalities. Yet, amidst these challenges, a tapestry of traditions and cultural nuances exists that imbues joy, resilience, and celebration into this journey.

Raymond A. Jetson Founder Aging While Black

Aging While Black (awB) is a beacon of transformation dedicated to enhancing the aging experience through three foundational pillars: Recalibrate the Village, Embrace Rapid Change, and Lean into Sankofa. These pillars underscore our commitment to building a solid aging ecosystem, ensuring the intentional integration of technology, and benevolently using the wisdom of our elders.

Recalibrate the Village calls for a fundamental overhaul of the systems that support Black elders, ensuring they receive the holistic care and respect they deserve. This pillar aims to forge stronger community bonds and enhance support networks essential for aging well.

Embracing Rapid Change is crucial as we navigate an ever-evolving technological landscape. By ensuring elders feel confident and competent in their use of technology, we can create pathways for new opportunities in healthcare, communication, and community engagement.

Leaning into Sankofa embodies our reverence for ancestral wisdom. This principle guides us in honoring the invaluable insights of Black elders, ensuring their stories and knowledge are preserved and passed on to future generations.

Our approach is as inclusive as it is expansive. Horizontally, we connect organizations and practitioners nationwide, focusing on critical issues like dementia care, caregiving, economic well-being, and advanced care planning. We amplify voices and share best practices through intentional collaboration, fostering a community-driven approach to aging advocacy.

We recognize the unique challenges and rich cultural heritage that define the experience of Black elders, shaped by a history of social, economic, and political inequalities.

Vertically, our efforts are localized, such as our initiative here in Denver, Colorado. Here, we work closely with local leaders in palliative care, Alzheimer’s support, caregiving, and media to create tailored solutions that address the unique needs of Black elders in Denver.

Aging While Black invites you to join us on this journey, where together, we build a future where every elder thrives. Visit agingwhileblack.co to learn more.

Six Questions for Your Doctor: Are Memory Issues a Concern?

If you or a loved one have concerns about memory loss or other unexplained changes in behavior, getting an expert opinion from your family doctor is an essential first step in understanding how to proceed.

Medicare offers a free annual wellness visit for those 65 and older, during which patients can request a brain health assessment. However, if you don’t see your family physician frequently, they may not know you well enough to determine if you are experiencing cognitive changes.

Memory Check List

To help, the Alzheimer’s Association has developed a list of six questions that individuals or family members can ask their doctor to ensure that the visit is productive and that patients get proper direction.

1. Do I (or the patient) have any medical conditions that could increase my risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease or another form of dementia?

2. Am I taking any medications that could be causing memory or cognitive-related symptoms?

3. What tests could you perform that might rule out Alzheimer’s or dementia as a diagnosis?

4. Are you aware of my family history – particularly among immediate family (grandparents, parents, or siblings) related to Alzheimer’s or dementia?

5. Should I be concerned about … (explain any changes in memory, focus, thinking, or mood)?

6. Can you provide a referral to a geriatrician or neurologist?

This is a good starting point for having a productive conversation with your family doctor. I suggest bringing these questions in writing along with any other specific concerns or examples you may have. There can be several reasons behind memory loss and personality change, so it’s essential to get guidance from your doctor as early as possible.

There can be several reasons behind memory loss and personality change, so it’s essential to get guidance from your doctor as early as possible.

For individuals who have immediate questions, the Alzheimer’s Association has a free, 24/7 Helpline staffed by trained professionals who can provide guidance and support: 800-272-3900. Information also is available on the Association’s website: alz.org. A free online webinar explaining the 10 Warning Signs of Alzheimer’s is available here.

Rosalyn Reese Director of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Alzheimer’s Association of Colorado

Now You’re Retired: What’s Next?

Remember all those things you put off for later? Remember regularly saying, “When I get the time?” or “That’s on my bucket list?”

You’re retired now, so now is the time for all those things to be done. You’re not retiring; you’re transitioning to another life phase that doesn’t incorporate a daily trip to a company. This time is also referred to as “The Freedom Zone.” You get 2,080 hours back into your life the company occupied. The fun is going to be what to do with all that time. Three insights summarized from our presentations “What’s Next and Solo Aging” may assist.

1. Health is your wealth and the key to unencumbered longevity. When producing and hosting a television series on Boomers and Aging, interviews with doctors had similar advice: use it or lose it. Keep the body exercised and the mind active and it’s all systems go. Wind down too much, the body and mind wind down too, and don’t return. Exercise, exercise, exercise. As money is lower, maintaining a fitness center will be a challenge. However, City Rec centers have locations with much of the same equipment, free, or minimum charge for senior residents.

2. Fixed-income budgeting is essential. Continuing with the same budget or using funds you did when with the company will not work as you had more money. The money changes, and the budget must change, too. The sooner you plan for this, the better, so you won’t spend yourself into trouble, as that correction will be tougher. Denver has the Center for Financial Empowerment that can assist you with budgeting, and the service is free.

3. Do not spend your early retirement years sitting around at home or relaxing at the park too much. The office was more of a neighborhood than where you resided. The social connections were extensive. The biggest detriments for older adults are isolation and loneliness, which are totally preventable. Limit the television and get outside.

Each week in your calendar, make a notation to chat with family, check in with friends or maybe past coworkers on another day, and the third, it’s out for lunch with someone or to the exercise center. Do these in addition to your regular connections with churches or social service organizations.

The biggest detriments for older adults are isolation and loneliness, which are totally preventable. Limit the television and get outside.

Connection is essential to your mental health. Volunteering can help significantly by replacing some of the past work hours, and you’ll also meet new people— these three contributions you can make to successfully design your next life chapter.

Adam Morgan Dempsey Former Commissioner, Colorado State Commission on Aging Former Member, Denver Commission on Aging Producer/Host, The Active Generation Boomer Aging Television Series

AARP Colorado

AARP is a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering Americans 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. AARP membership provides a wide array of benefits and savings. AARP also advocates for seniors on important issues that matter to you, your family, and the community.

303 E. 17th Avenue Denver, CO 80203 1-888-687-2277 / 1-866-554-5376 states.aarp.org/colorado

Access-a-Ride

Access-a-Ride is a shared ride public transportation service for those who are unable to use RTD’s noncommuter bus and light rail services due to a disability. 303-299-6000 rtd-denver.com

African American Caregiver Support Group (Lutheran Family Services of Colorado)

Older adult and caregiver services 1035 Osage Street, Ste. 700 Denver, CO 80205 303-922-3433 nichellestinggers@lfso.org oacs@lfsm.org

African Americans in Gerontology

Aisha Young African Americans in Gerontology provides guidance and professional development opportunities, and promotes community activism for African American professionals and students in the field of gerontology. The ultimate purpose is to improve the quality of life for African American elderly.

P.O. Box 8148

Colorado Springs, CO 80933 719-581-9437 info@blacksngerontology.org blacksingerontology.org

Alzheimer’s Association -

Colorado Chapter

A trusted resource for information, education, referral and support to millions of people affected by memory concerns. Their free 24/7 Helpline, 800-272-3900 offers support when you need it.

455 N. Sherman Street, Ste. 500 Denver, CO 80203 303-813-1669 alz.org/co

Aurora Center for Active Adults

Offers services through a partnership with Volunteers of America, Visiting Nurse’s Association, AARP Safe Driving Course and AARP Tax Assistance. The Center provides a stimulating and engaging environment with activities that contribute to the health and wellbeing of adults over 50 years old.

30 Del Mar Circle Aurora, CO 80011 303-739-7950

Caregiver’s Guardian Nadine Cornish

A Denver, Colorado-based consulting service supporting, encouraging, and advocating for the family caregiver. The Caregiver’s Guardian can help family members learn about the unique challenges and stressors as well as how these can be managed and resolved.

820 S. Monaco Parkway, #342 Denver, CO 80224 303-394-1963 info@tcgcares.com tcgcares.com

Colorado Seniors Resource Guide

The goal of this Guide is to make it easier for people to learn about senior resources and services so they can advocate for their needs. The content is designed to be helpful! seniorsresourceguide.com

Senior Law HandbookColorado Bar Association

The 2024 Colorado Senior Law Handbook is designed to provide seniors, their caregivers, and families, useful information on many subjects pertinent to their legal concerns. The information provided in the Senior Law Handbook is not intended to replace the advice and services of an attorney. seniorlawhandbook.org

SilverSneakers

Seniors 65 and older may be eligible for Silver Sneakers if they are enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan that offers SilverSneakers as a benefit. 866-584-7389

TOPS CO 0677 at Zion Senior Center

The TOPS mission statement is “to help and support our members as they Take Off and Keep Off Pounds Sensibly.” This is a peer-to-peer group in the community that focuses on accountability, lasting friendships, and leaning on the people who are in similar shoes.

5151 E. 33rd Avenue Denver, CO 80207 303-905-7171 suekimball35@gmail.com

Zion Senior Center

The Center is a welcoming place where older adults and the community interface. It promotes physical and mental health through recreation, social interaction, and education.

5151 E. 33rd Avenue Denver, CO 80207 303-333-5746

Supportive Organizations

Building Stronger Communities Together

Discover a network of organizations providing vital support services to the Black community in Colorado. From health centers to Black-owned pharmacies, these organizations are here to uplift and empower you on your journey.

Smoking Cessation: Why Can’t We Quit?

Each year, we are losing approximately 45,000 African American (Black) lives prematurely due to tobaccorelated illnesses and diseases. And it is preventable! The fact that over 85% of Black smokers smoke menthol tobacco nicotine is no accident. Tobacco companies have been intentional and calculating in pursuit of Black lives. They studied the Black Community and hatched a plan to infiltrate our Community. The targeted marketing in our Black neighborhoods has been maliciously predatory.

• The relentless “drive-bys” into our communities to hand out free menthol cigarettes—called loosies—were calculated.

• Tobacco companies presented alluring illusions that using their poisonous products was supposedly cool, fun, and sexy.

• They strategically provided money to sponsor Black cultural events like the KOOL Jazz Festivals to promote the use of their deadly products further.

• They financially sponsored Black organizations and Black leaders and influencers to exploit financial needs and silence their voices in opposing what they have done and are doing to harm the health and well-being of our community.

The Slow Genocide of Our Community

Menthol makes it easier to start smoking and harder to quit. It provides a cooling sensation to the throat, which makes it easier to inhale the poison deeply. The deeper inhalation facilitates more nicotine going into the body. Nicotine is a stimulant drug that speeds up the messages traveling between the brain and body, causing addiction.

Cancer-causing materials in tobacco smoke have been proven to be absorbed in tissues rich in melanin. Melanin is the primary source of shades of black and brown pigmentation. And nicotine has a high affinity for melanin. According to a 2006 Review of Literature article, Melanin and Nicotine, nicotine may accumulate in human melanin tissues.

Per a survey conducted by the National Cancer Institute in 2010, close to 50% of Black smokers stated they would quit smoking and not use any other product if menthol cigarettes were no longer sold. CBHC has been listening to Black smokers, who have shared that they smoke to cope with the stresses of daily life and systemic and structural racism. To that end, we are working to help change policies, systems, and environments to remove menthol (and other flavored) tobacco nicotine from the marketplace.

CBHC is also working to identify culturally focused cessation resources and services to help Black smokers quit and stay quit. We recently learned about Emotional Brain Training (EBT), a cutting-edge, proven scientific method that helps rewire the brain for optimal emotional health, helping to manage stress.

Menthol makes it easier to start smoking and harder to quit. It provides a cooling sensation to the throat, which makes it easier to inhale the poison deeply.

To learn more about EBT and other cessation resources, please visit coloradoblackhealth.org, click on the Resources tab, then the Menthol Tobacco Knock-out page, and scroll down to the Ready to Quit? Section. The slow genocide of our beautiful Black Community is real, and CBHC is working to SAVE BLACK LIVES!

If you have questions or need additional information, please contact coordinatorcbhc@gmail.com

Tracy Gilford Project Coordinator

Colorado Black Health Collaborative

Association of Black Social Workers Denver, CO 80239 abswco.leadership@gmail.com

Black Business Initiative

BBI endeavors to bolster economic and social agency for Black entrepreneurs 2000 S. Colorado Boulevard, Tower 1, Ste. 2000 Denver, CO 80222 community@bbiprofessional.com bbiprofessional.com

Black Child Development Institute (BCDI) Colorado

BCDI’s mission is to empower black children, families, and communities to thrive, flourish, and prosper by championing holistic well-being and fostering a bright future for all. P.O. Box 7453 Denver, CO 80207 720-505-1687 denver@affliates.nbcdi.org

Black Girls Hike Recreation/health/exercise blackgirlshike.net

Blossom & Grow Speech & Lanuage Therapy

Bridget Morgan

Black, woman-owned company dedicated to providing speechlanguage and academic interventions. Autism, Apraxia, Articulaton, Augmentative Alternative communication, social skills, language disorders, cognition, stuttering, dyslexia, communication delay. 1880 S. Pierce Street, Ste. 18G Lakewood, CO 80232

6595 S. Dayton Street, Ste. 3500 Greenwood Village, CO 80111 720-772-6732 hello@blossomandgrowspeech languagetherapy.com blossomandgrowspeech languagetherapy.com

Colorado Black Women for Political Action (CBWPA)

Encourage African American participation in the political process and serve as advocates in the political arena for our African American Community

Bianka Emerson, President P.O. Box 370913 Denver, CO 80237 818-539-7116 info@cbwpa.org

Colorado Healing Initiative within Communities (CHIC)

Offers a variety of services in intervention and prevention that address economic deprivation, mental health, youth violence and the overall stability of the family.

10660 E. Colfax Avenue, Ste. A Aurora, CO 80010 303-993-8511 info@chicdenver.org chicdenver.org

Dahlia Campus for Health and Wellbeing

WellPower. Mental health, dentistry, day care

3401 Eudora Street Denver, CO 80207 303-300-6333 wellpower.org/dahlia-campus-forhealth-wellbeing

Dayton Street Opportunity Center

Food bank, meeting spaces, music classes, substance abuse support group, career fairs, and Mosaic Church Maisha Fields 1445 Dayton Street Aurora, CO 80010 720-762-4324 daytonstreertoc.org

Donor Alliance

Facilitates the process of organ and tissue donation. 200 Spruce Street, Ste. 200 Denver, CO 80230 303-329-4747 donoralliance.org

Girl Trek

Recreation/health/exercise 1800 Wyoming Avenue, NW Floor 2 Washington, DC 20009 202-808-8419 girltrek.corg

Heritage Camps For Adoptive Families

Adoptive families support organization 2052 Elm Street Denver Denver, CO 80207 303-320-4234 info@heritagecamps.org heritagecamps.org

Kuumba Cultural Collective of Southern Colorado

Preserve and promote the history and culture of African Americans 4419 Centennial Boulevard, Ste. 352 Colorado Springs, CO 80907 info@cospringskwanzaa.org

NAACP Aurora Chapter Omar Montgomery, President P. O. Box 31671 Aurora, CO 80041 303-366-2971 NAACPAuroraColorado@gmail.com auroracoloradonaacp.org

NAACP Colorado Springs Chapter Angela Stevens 1613 S. Murray Boulevard Colorado Springs, CO 80916 719-301-0726 naacpcoloradosprings@gmail.com

NAACP Denver Chapter Sondra Young, President 2900 Welton Street, 2nd Floor Denver, CO 80205 730-210-9889 info@NAACPdenver.org naacpdenver.org

National Council of Negro WomenDenver Section P.O. Box 24013 Denver, CO 80224 303-296-4359 ncnwdenver.org

National Pan-Hellenic Council of Denver Colorado Divine 9

Represents the Black Sororities and Fraternities mshort60@yahoo.com nphchq.org

Open Door Youth Gang Alternatives

Reverend Leon Kelly

Executive Director

1615 California Street, Ste. 712 Denver, CO 80202 303-893-4264 info@opendooryouth.org therev.org

Park Hill Financial District

Igniting creativity, fostering community, empower your wealth. Financial literacy courses. Youth financial wellness course. 600 17th Street Denver, CO 80202 800-484-6362 info@phfd80207.com phfd80207.com

RISE

Southeast

The Cause: enhance the Southeast Colorado Springs from within through resident-led change. risesoutheast.com

Rocky Mountain NAACP State Conference

Colorado- Montana-Wyoming Portia Prescott, President P.O. Box 31671 Aurora, CO 80041 310-497-0403 info@rmnaacp.org rmnaacp.org

Tru North Institute

To uplift humanity P.O. Box 473025 Aurora, CO 80047 hello@trunorth.institute trunorth.institute

Urban Leadership Foundation

Leadership training

Dr. Ryan Ross, CEO/President 1550 Larimer Street, Ste. 518 Denver, CO 80202 303-558-1050 info@ulfcolorado.org

Urban League

2701 Lawrence Street , #10 Denver, CO 80205 303-377-2790

HEALTH CENTERS

Inner City Health Center (ICHC)

ICHC Medical Primary Care Clinic

ICHC Dental: 303-296-4873 3800 York Street Denver, CO 80207 303-296-1767 innercityhealth.com

Montbello Family Health CenterDenver Health

Primary care clinic 12600 E. Albrook Drive Denver, CO 80239 303-436-4949 denverhealth.org

Parkhill Family Health CenterDenver Health

Primary care clinic 4995 E. 33rd Avenue Denver, CO 80207 303-436-4949 denverhealth.org

Peak Vista Family Health Centers

Primary care clinic

320 Printers Parkway Colorado Springs, CO 80910 719-632-5700 peakvista.org

Stride Community Health Center, Del Mar

Primary Care Clinic

Behavioral Health & Dental onsite 10680 Del Mar Parkway Aurora, CO 80010 303-778-7433

stridechc.org

Stride Community Health Center, Englewood

Primary Care Clinic

Behavioral Health & Dental onsite 3515 S. Delaware Street Englewood, CO 80110 303-778-7433 stridechc.org

Stride Community Health Center, Peoria

Primary Care Clinic

Behavioral Health, Dental, Pharmacy, Lab 3292 Peoria Street Aurora, CO 80010 303-778-7433 stridechc.org

BLACK-OWNED PHARMACIES

Apex Pharmacy

Dr. Mary Desta, PharmD, Owner 12597 E. Mississippi Avenue, Unit 300 Aurora, CO 80012 303-479-3864 apexrxco.com

RaphaRx Pharmacy

Dr. Fru Ngunjoh, PharmD, Owner 1260 S. Parker Road Lower Level, Ste. B Denver, CO 80231 303-219-8801 rapharx.com

Saddlerock Pharmacy

Dr. Akosua Mensa, PharmD, Owner 12200 E. Briarwood Avenue Centennial, CO 80112 720-353-4212 saddlerockpharmacy.com

Total Kare Solutions (TKS) Pharmacy

Dr. Alice Soremekun, PharmD, Owner 4809 Argonne Street, Ste. 155 Denver, CO 80249 720-583-2110 720-710-1097 tksrx.com

Veterans

Honoring Colorado’s Black Veterans

Your service deserves recognition and support. Connect with resources and services specifically designed to address the health and well-being of Black veterans in Colorado. Find mental health counseling, support groups, and assistance navigating VA benefits.

Who’s Taking Care of Our Black Vets?

The mental health of Black veterans is a pressing issue that has garnered increasing attention in recent years. Despite their service to the nation, many Black veterans face unique challenges related to mental health, exacerbated by systemic racism and societal stigmas surrounding mental illness. Organizations that support these individuals are crucial in providing necessary resources and advocacy.

Sheila Hughes Licensed Professional Counselor/ Licensed Addiction Counselor

A multifaceted approach that includes community support, governmental initiatives, and nonprofit organizations is essential for addressing the mental health needs of Black veterans. There are organizations like the National Association for Black Veterans (NABV).

Founded in 1970, NABV focuses on advocating for Black veterans’ rights and benefits while addressing their mental health needs through educational programs and outreach initiatives. Another resource is the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). They have implemented programs to enhance access to mental health resources for minority populations.

Lack of Representation

A huge barrier for Black Veterans is the lack of representation in mental health services as well as limited culturally competent care available. The stigmas surrounding mental health are higher with African Americans and Military personnel, which can prevent seeking help.

Addressing these stigmas is crucial. As a Black woman in the military, I understand these challenges. My background and career in Mental Health have fueled my passion for advocating. I do not have the barrier of stigmas, but I struggle with trusting individuals who do not look like me to understand my experiences and

needs. As I have navigated my career within the last decade, I have encountered many situations where the lack of cultural competency has hindered effective communication and treatment.

The stigmas surrounding mental health are higher with African Americans and Military personnel, which can prevent seeking help.

My stake is in community support and resources. I believe showing up where people live, work, and worship is crucial for effective advocacy. I like to meet people where they are at. This approach fosters genuine connections. It also allows practitioners to better understand individuals from a cultural perspective, enhancing care outcomes. This approach promotes empathy and understanding.

Ultimately, addressing the mental health needs of Black veterans requires collaboration among various stakeholders, including non-profits, government agencies, and local communities. By fostering awareness and promoting accessible resources, society can better serve those who have bravely defended our freedoms while simultaneously combating the stigma surrounding mental health within marginalized communities. This collective effort can make a significant impact.

VETERANS

Colorado Department of Military and Veterans Affairs

Each county has a Veterans Service Office that offers free assistance to veterans and their families. They handle claims, tuition assistance, applications, and appeals to the VA. Reach out to your specific county for assistance: vets.colorado.gov/county-veteransservice-offices

6848 S. Revere Parkway Centennial, CO 80112 dmva.colorado.gov

Historical Wallace Simpson American Legion Post 29 Wallace Simpson was the first Black Colorado soldier to die in 1918 during World War I. This American Legion Post named in his honor is one of the oldest in the country. Charles Fulton, 1st Vice commander 720-298-1850

Maurice McFalls, Commander 720-203-8522 P.O. Box 390092 Denver, CO 80239

Retired Enlisted Association, Inc

1599 Dayton Street Aurora, CO 80010 303-343-1921

7410 Treasure Trail Circle Colorado Springs, CO 80911 719-391-9879 trea.chapt3@gmail.com trea.org

The National Association of Black Veterans Assists veterans with filing claims for VA benefits

6500 E. 44th Avenue, Ste. H Denver, CO 80216 nabvets.org

The Retired Enlisted Association Supports Enlisted Services Members (Past, Present, and Future)

12200 E. Briarwood Avenue, Ste. 170 Centennial, CO 80112 303-752-0660 trea.org

TRICARE

TRICARE is the uniformed services health care program for active duty service members (ADSMs), active duty family members (ADFMs), National Guard and Reserve members and their family members, retirees and retiree family members, survivors, and certain former spouses worldwide. tricare.mil

US Department of Veterans Affairs

Regional Benefit Satellite Offices 1700 N. Wheeling Street Aurora, CO 80045 1-800-827-1000

3141 Centennial Boulevard Colorado Springs, CO 80907 719-327-5660 va.gov

Veteran’s Administration Hospitals and Clinics

Locations | VA Eastern Colorado Health Care | Veterans Affairs

va.gov/eastern-colorado-healthcare/locations

Veterans Crisis Line

24/7 Confidential crisis support for veterans and their families

988 then press 1 or text 838255

In Memoriam to Perry Ayers (left), Colorado Black Arts Festival Founder.

Youth

Nurturing the Next Generation

Our youth are the future. Empower Black children and young adults in Colorado to thrive with resources and programs that support their physical, mental, and emotional health. Find mentors, activities, and opportunities for growth, development, and leadership.

How Preschool Promotes Children and Families’ Wellbeing

When we think of preschool, we often only think of its educational impacts. However, research shows that preschool positively affects a child’s healthy development in all areas of life.

This is because the quality of a child’s experiences in their first five years – positive or negative – helps shape their brain development. Therefore, we must invest in a strong foundation for children and families in Colorado. Such an investment will serve them across a lifetime.

Preschool participation results in direct gains in early reading and math and increased social and emotional

skills. Research shows that attendees of high-quality preschools are even more inclined to pursue higher education, enjoy improved long-term health outcomes, and achieve higher earnings in adulthood.

Investments in the early childhood system that disrupt systemic inequities, address historical trauma, and promote access to high-quality programming and services have been shown to mitigate the opportunity gap and promote economic advancement for children and families.

Colorado Universal Preschool

That’s why we’re so excited about the Colorado Universal Preschool program. Launched in 2023, the program provides equal access to funding for all children in their year before kindergarten to attend preschool throughout the state. The program aims to empower all children with the skills they need to achieve stronger academic, social-emotional, and health outcomes throughout their lives. It also saves families over $600 per month on preschool costs!

Importantly, families are empowered to choose the preschool that best suits their needs because no one knows what’s better for children than their families. To succeed in preschool, children need safe, stable, and nurturing environments before, during, and after they transition to kindergarten – and parents play a vital role in fostering those environments. That’s why the Colorado Department of Early Childhood is committed to providing a broad range of programs and services with enrichments for children, families, and early childhood professionals.

Our “whole child, whole family” approach seeks to support a child’s health, a family’s preparedness, and the well-being of the professionals who serve them. Whether through childcare subsidies, early intervention services, mental health initiatives, family support programs, and more, the Department aims to make Colorado the best place to raise a family for all families.

I encourage everyone to learn more about the Department – and register your child for preschool today!

1-800-799-5876 cdec.colorado.gov

The program aims to empower all children with the skills they need to achieve stronger academic, social-emotional, and health outcomes throughout their lives. It also saves families over $600 per month on preschool costs!

Dr. Lisa Roy Executive Director

Colorado Department of Early Childhood

African American Youth Leadership Conference

Offer programs and experiences that empower students. P.O. Box 76408 Colorado Springs, CO 80907 303-549-0757 aalyc-co.org

Apprentice of Peace Youth Organization

Mentoring, enrichments, and career pathway programs 2245 Curtis Street Denver, CO 80205 303-656-9288 aopyouth@gmail.com aopyo.org

Athletics & Beyond

Narcy Jackson

Youth sports programs and academic support. Fitness and boxing facility for youth and adults

4990 Nome Street, Unit C Denver, CO 80239 720-845-1712 aabwellness4990@gmail.com athleticsbeyond.com

Colorado Association of Black Professional Engineers and Scientists (CABPES)

Encourage African Americans and other underrepresented youth to pursue science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) careers. P.O. Box 200508 Denver, CO 80220 303- 329-6251 info@CABPES.org cabpes.org

Colorado Beautillion, Inc.

Enrichment program for high school students 911 S. Rifle Street Aurora, CO 80017 720-217-8291 cobeau.org

Colorado Crime Survivors Network, Inc. Outreach program 1609 Havana Street Aurora, CO 80010 720-309-7623 ccsncustomerservice@gmail.com 5280Survivors.org

Colorado Uplift

Build long-term, life-changing relationships with urban young 400 W. 48th Avenue, Ste. 250 Aurora, CO 80216

303-830-6615 coloradouplift.org

Compound of Compassion

Shana Shaw

Advocacy programs for youth, young adults. Address community’s needs and create tailored empowerment programs and services

3819 S. Qunitero Circle Aurora, CO 80013 720-989-1238

compassion4free@gmail.com compassion4free.org

Crowley Foundation

Providing quality service to youth and families

2901 Saint Paul Street, Ste. 300 Aurora, CO 80205 720-935-9842

kenneth@crowleycollegeprep.com crowleyfoundation.org

Curls on the Block Enrichment program for girls of all curls

1273 S. Wheeling Way Aurora, CO 80012 303-875-5773

info@curlsontheblock.com curlsontheblock.org

Delta Gems

Inspiring and enriching young women P.O. Box 7432 Denver, CO 80207 milehighdeltas.org denverdeltas.org/program/youthprograms/gems

Denver Bridge Project

Youth community outreach program 2148 S. High Street Denver, CO 80238 303-871-2651

bridgeproject@du.edu denverbridgeproject.org

Denver Kappa League

Help young men grow, receive, and develop their leadership talents

2160 N. Downing Street Denver, CO 80205

720-295-6342

kldirector@denveralumnikappas.com denveralumnikappas.com

Denver Public Safety Youth Program Youth Program

303 W. Colfax Avenue, Ste. 1000 Denver, CO 80204

720-913-4620

safetyyouthprograms@denvergov.org denvergov.org/safetyyouthprograms

Driven by Our Ambitions (DBOA)

Daniel Sampson

Mental health, professional development, and wellness

1980 S. Quebec Street Aurora CO 80231

1635 Paris Street Denver, CO 80010 info@dboaprep.com dboaprep.com

Especially Me

Young African American women’s program info@especiallyme.org especiallyme.org

Ethnic College Counseling Center

Talia McCray P.O. Box 221710

Denver, CO 80222

303-751-9731

mccrayeccc@gmail.com ethniccollegecounselingcenter.org

Families Against Violent Acts (FAVA)

Impacting lives and empowering families

Ms. Dianne Cooks

12000 E. 47th Avenue, Ste. 110F Denver, CO 80239 720-276-4611 favafamilies@gmail.com favadenver.wixsite.com

Gang Rescue and Support Project (GRASP)

Interventional program for at risk youths

1625 E. 35th Avenue Denver, CO 80205 303-777-3117

johnnie@graspyouth.org graspyouth.org

Impact Empowerment Group-IEG

Education assistance program for youths and adults

Nick Dawkins 5405 E. 33rd Avenue Denver, CO 80207 720-819-7150 info@ImpactEmpowerment.org impactempowerment.org

Kids Above Everything Youth media arts mentorship organization. 2840 Fairfax Street, Ste. 260 Denver, CO 80207 720-251-6208 info@kidsaboveeverthing.com kidsaboveeverything.org

Make A Chess Move-MACM

Develops tenacious learners and increases school engagement 2015 26th Avenue, #B Denver, CO 80205 303-818-4609 phillip@makeachessmove.org makeachessmove.org

My Brother’s and Sister’s Keeper - Denver 720-617-1428 mbskco.org

Our Shades of Blue Youth educational, training program in Aviation and Aerospace 558 Castle Pines Parkway Denver, CO 80108 303-814-2987 info@ourshadesofblue.org ourshadesofblue.org

Pirates Youth Football Organization Youth football program 5600 E. 35th Avenue Denver, CO 80207 720-251-6208 info@parkhillpirates.org parkhillpirates.org

Project Voyce Youth program

2900 Downing Street, #1B Denver, CO 80205 team@projectvoyce.org projectvoyce.org

RISE 5280

Youth and mentorship program

HBCU Tours Opportunity

18957 E. Randolf Place, Ste. 200 Denver, CO 80249 720-299-0989 info@rise5280.org rise5280.com

Shaka Franklin Foundation for Youth Youth mental health and wellness program

Les Franklin 8101 E. Dartmouth Avenue Denver, CO 80231 303-337-2515 info@shaka.org shaka.org

Simmons Foundation for Youth and Change Youth basketball program P.O. Box 202991 Denver, CO 80220 303-521-7211 support@simmonfoundationfyc.org

STARZ Girlz Empowerment, Inc.

Shalonda Palmer Girls mentorship program 2360 Dayton Street Aurora, CO 80110 303-862-7236 empowerme@stargirlzempower.org stargirlzempower.org

Street Fraternity

Boys youth program 8720 E. Colfax Avenue, Ste. 100 Denver, CO 80220 720-389-6381 admin@streetfraternityusa.org streetfraternityusa.org

Struggle of Love Foundation Youth program

12000 E. 47th Avenue, Ste. #403. Denver, CO 80239 720-923-6122

comms@struggleoflovefoundation.org struggleoflovefoundation.org

The Urban Farm Youth farm and agriculture community program 10200 Smith Road Denver, CO 80239 720-414-6141 info@theurbanfarm.org theurbanfarm.org

Urban Colors Arts and Mentoring - UCAM Youth Program urbancolors.org

Vibe Tribe Adventures

Jessica Newton Facilitate urban community reconnection to nature rich places. 720-840-0289 vibetribeadventures.org

Vision Performing Arts Company 1445 Dayton Street Aurora, CO 80010 720-620-2316 vpac.2020@gmail.com

Warrior Nation’s Football warriornationsports.com

Young Men of Purpose P.O. Box 31322 Aurora, CO 80041 720-532-3189 ymop.net

Youth Seen QTBIPoC youth support program P.O. Box 387 Broomfield, CO 80018 720-788-0062 youthseen.org info@youthseen.org

Z Place

Youth/Family support program 4800 Telluride Street Denver, CO 80249 zplace.org

2024 Colorado Black Health Resource Directory