2024 Colorado Black Health Resource Directory

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Colorado Black Health Resource Directory

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Working Together for Our Health In partnership with

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

Welcome............................................................................................................................................................................................................ 4 Message from Connect for Health Colorado......................................................................................................................... 5 Message from the Colorado Black Health Collaborative.............................................................................................6 The Facts About Our Health........................................................................................................................................................... 7-9 Advanced Practice Providers.........................................................................................................................10-13 The Gift of Life: Closing the Organ Donation Gap in Black Communities...................................................11 African Organizations.........................................................................................................................................14-16 Our African Community Needs Us..........................................................................................................................................15 Chiropractors.........................................................................................................................................................18-19 Dance........................................................................................................................................................................ 20-21 Dentists.................................................................................................................................................................... 22-25 The Challenges and Triumphs of Being a Black Nurse...........................................................................................23 Doctors..................................................................................................................................................................... 26-36 The Key to Improving Health...............................................................................................................................................27-28 Navigating the Health Care System...................................................................................................................................... 29 Faith & Health Ministries.................................................................................................................................. 38-41 The Intersection of Faith and Health in the Black Community......................................................................... 39 Fitness & Recreation.......................................................................................................................................... 42-45 We Need to Find a Way to Move!............................................................................................................................................ 43 Food & Nutrition...................................................................................................................................................46-50 Soul Food Can Be Tasty and Healthy!.......................................................................................................................... 47-48 How What We Eat Affects Who We Are............................................................................................................................. 49 Health Organizations..........................................................................................................................................52-73 HIV/AIDS..................................................................................................................................................................74-75 Holistic Health...................................................................................................................................................... 76-77 Maternal Health...................................................................................................................................................78-80 The Importance of Policy for Black Maternal Health............................................................................................... 79 Mental Health.......................................................................................................................................................82-88 Black Mental Health and Religion in Our Queer Community............................................................................ 83 Optometrists..........................................................................................................................................................89-90 Seniors.......................................................................................................................................................................91-95 Aging While Black............................................................................................................................................................................... 92 Six Questions for Your Doctor: Are Memory Issues a Concern?....................................................................... 93 Now You’re Retired: What’s Next?............................................................................................................................................ 94 Supportive Organizations................................................................................................................................96-99 Smoking Cessation: Why Can’t We Quit?.......................................................................................................................... 97 Veterans.............................................................................................................................................................. 100-102 Who’s Taking Care of Our Black Vets?.............................................................................................................................. 101 Youth.....................................................................................................................................................................104-107 How Preschool Promotes Children and Families’ Wellbeing...........................................................................105

2024 Black Health Resource Directory

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WELCOME

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

“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

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

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Colorado Black Health Collaborative

MESSAGE FROM C4HC

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.

Kevin Patterson Chief Executive Officer Connect for Health Colorado

We’re Here to Help We understand the struggle to keep up with inflation and that taking on another monthly bill can seem unfeasible. But, as I speak to folks in our Community, I remind them of why our organization is here—to make health coverage not just affordable but also accessible for all Coloradans while giving people quality choices. On average, 75 percent of our customers qualify for financial help. That includes Advanced Premium Tax Credits to reduce monthly payments and Cost-Sharing Reductions to lower costs for prescriptions, copayments, and deductibles.

You can find a quality health plan for you and your family at reasonable prices and get expert guidance from a certified Broker or community-based Assister. Our expert enrollment help is always free, and you’re not obligated to purchase a plan when you speak with an expert. So, I encourage you to contact us and find out how to protect your health, finances, and loved ones by getting covered. With the right health coverage, you can have greater peace of mind year-round and lead your healthiest life.

For questions and assistance, visit ConnectForHealthCO.com or call 855-752-6749. We’re here to help you every step of the way.

All my best, Kevin Patterson

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MESSAGE FROM CBHC

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.

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Colorado Black Health Collaborative

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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.

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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.

Jerome Blackwell Board Chair Colorado Black Health Collaborative

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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.

FACTS ABOUT OUR HEALTH

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.

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

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

Americans have kidney disease.

MILLIONS MORE

are at risk of developing the disease.

BLACK AMERICANS 4X

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

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

American Kidney Fund

National Kidney Foundation

KidneyFund.org

Kidney.org

CDC.org

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Health Insurance Coverage

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

11.1% 22.1%

Hispanic/Latino(a) American Indian/Alaska Native

20.5% 12.9%

Black/African American 11.0%

Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander 9.7%

Multiracial White

7.8%

Asian

8.0%

Source: 0CDPHE, Health Equity 5 Report, 12.2023 10

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More Black or African American & Hispanic/Latino Coloradans

Skipped Care Due to Concerns of Being Treated Unfairly 2.3%

White

5.4%

Black/African American Hispanic/Latino(a) 0

1

4.4% 2

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

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Colorado Black Health Collaborative

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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.

Rank

Cause

Number

Age-adjusted rate per 100,000

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Cancer (malignant neoplasms)

8,241

125.1

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Heart Disease

7,994

124.8

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COVID-19

4,303

67.8

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Unintentional injuries (motor vehicle crashes, falls, accidental drug overdose, etc.

3,628

59.7

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Chronic lower respiratory disease

2,488

38.5

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Stroke (cerebrovascular diseases)

2,188

34.9

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Alzheimer’s Disease

2,164

35.6

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Intentional injuries (suicide, homicide, legal intervention)

1,658

27.7

9

Diabetes mellitus

1,167

17.8

10

Chronic liver disease and cirrhosis

1,141

17.7

Source: CDPHE Equity Report, 12.2023

Disparities

No Disparities

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Advanced Practice Providers

HEALTH LITERACY

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.

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Colorado Black Health Collaborative

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.

ARTICLE

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 Ryan Harris, former Denver Bronco and of organ transplants. In Super Bowl 50 champion donated a kidney to his dad, Kevin Harris.

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

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.

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

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ADVANCED PRACTICE PROVIDERS

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

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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

Colorado Black Health Collaborative

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

ADVANCED PRACTICE PROVIDERS

Chinika Reynolds, PA-C Pulmonary Medicine National Jewish 1400 Jackson Street Denver, CO 80206 877-225-5654 nationaljewish.org  Telehealth  Medicare/CHIP

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

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

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

Michele Spottsville, PA-C Physician Assistant Orthopedics Anschutz Medical Campus 13123 E. 16th Avenue Aurora, CO 80045 720-777-6600

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

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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.

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ARTICLE

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

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.

Access to Health Care 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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AFRICAN ORGANIZATIONS

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

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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

Colorado Black Health Collaborative

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

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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.

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Colorado Black Health Collaborative

CHIROPRACTORS

Dr. Dwaine Holloway, DCM Chiropractor Fit Chiropractic, Inc. 1761 Ogden Street Denver, CO 80218 303-861-1774  Medicare/Medicaid

Dr. Brittany McClain, DCM Chiropractor Mountain View Pain Center 63 N. Quebec Street Denver, CO 80230 720-798-2811 mvpc.com

Dr. Laketia Johnson, DC (Dr. J) Chiropractor 42 Klicks Chiropractic 7939 Smokewood Drive Colorado Springs, CO 80908 719-232-1193 42klickschiro.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. 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

Colorado Chiropractic Association 303-755-9011 needchiro.com The American Black Chiropractic Association abcachiro.com

Dr. Rochelle Smith, DCM Chiropractor, nutrition Prolific Chiropractic 2101 S. Blackhawk Street, #140 Aurora, CO 80014 303-337-1321 prolificchiropractic.com  Medicaid

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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.

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Colorado Black Health Collaborative

DANCE

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

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 African heritage to explore their roots.

The goal is to be creative, have fun, express a harmonious dance and/ or drum self, and to explore different styles, while connecting with your African ancestry. senakhu@hotmail.com

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

Nu-World Contemporary Danse Theatre Christopher & Bashir Muhammad This group is a contemporary dance company that uses art as a way to help audiences tap into the power within themselves so that they can impact the world!

2300 Court Place, #103 Denver, CO 80205 720-355-9661 nuworlddanse.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

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Dentists

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

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.

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

PC: Professional Corporation

ARTICLE

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 Laura Howard, BSN, RN and your family deserve President Colorado Council of Black Nurses, Inc. 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.

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!

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.

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DENTISTS

Cecil Bottenbley, DMD Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery InnovAge 8405 W. Alameda Avenue Lakewood, CO 80226 720-974-5400 innovage.com

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

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

Rodrell Brown, DDS Pediatric Dentistry Kids Dental Pueblo 1022 Liberty Lane Pueblo, CO 81001 719-204-8675 familyandkidsdentalpueblo.com  Medicaid/CHIP+

Jonathan W. Hill, DDS General Dentistry Hill Dentistry 4711 Opus Drive, #120 Colorado Springs, CO 80906 719-540-3983 hilldentistry.com

Gary Sadler, DDS General Dentistry Comfort Dental 4450 W. 38th Avenue Denver, CO 80212 comfortdental.com

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

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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

Colorado Black Health Collaborative

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

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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.

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Colorado Black Health Collaborative

ARTICLE

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!”

Cleveland Piggott, Jr., MD, MPH, FAAFP Board Chair University of Colorado Department of Family Medicine Colorado Academy of Family Physicians

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.

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.

Social and Political Affects 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.

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ARTICLE 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?

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Colorado Black Health Collaborative

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.

Public Policy National, state, and local laws and policy

Community Design, access, connectedness, spaces

Organizational Schools, workplaces, religious organizations Interpersonal Family, friends, social networks

Individual Knowledge, attitudes, skills

ARTICLE

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.

Stanley Thomas Patient & Care Navigator Denver Health

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.

Call on us, and let us help you!

303-602-3720 Denverhealth.org

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DOCTORS

Yisfalem W. Alamdew, MD Nephrology CommonSpirit 9397 Crown Crest Boulevard, Ste. 401 Parker, CO 80138 303-697-1636 doctor.webmd.com  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

Jandel Allen-Davis, MD CEO and President Craig Hospital 3425 S. Clarkson Street Englewood, CO 80113 303-789-8000 rehab@craighospital.org  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

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

Franck Belibi, MD Internal Medicine Grace Health Clinic 3191 S. Vaughn Way, #101 Aurora, CO 80014 303-755-4600 graceclinicaurora.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

Suzanne Belibi, MD Pediatrics Grace Health Clinic 3191 S. Vaughn Way, #101 Aurora, CO 80014 303-755-4600 graceclinicaurora.com  Telehealth  Medicare/Medicaid

Deborah Archer, MD Pediatrics Kaiser Permanente - Longmont 2345 Bent Way Longmont, CO 80503 303-338-4545 kp.org  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

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

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Ashley Biscoe, ND Naturopathic Attune Functional Medicine 13654 Xavier Lane Ste. 202 Broomfield, CO 80023 720-807-0513

Colorado Black Health Collaborative

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

DOCTORS

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

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

Morgan Deal, MD Psychiatry CMI at Fort Logan 1300 E. 17th Avenue, Bldg 500 Aurora, CO 80045 Erica N. Elzey, MD 720-848-0000 Pediatrics cdhs.colorado.gov Kaiser Permanente 8383 W. Alameda Avenue  Medicare/Medicaid Lakewood, CO 80226 Amira Del Pino-Jones, MD 303-338-4545 Internal Medicine kp.org Assistant Professor of Medicine  Telehealth CU Division of Hospital Medicine  Medicare/Medicaid Anschutz Medical Campus 12401 E. 17th Avenue Alexander Enurah, MD Aurora, CO 80046 Internal Medicine/Critical Care & 720-848-4289 Pulmonary Consultant ucdenver.edu Common Spirit 5200 DTC Parkway, Ste. 400  Medicare Greenwood Village, CO 80111 303-745-0000 ccpcmd.com  Medicare

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DOCTORS

Chijioke Enweluzo, MD Anne Garrett Mills, MD Gastroenterology Psychiatry Common Spirit - Durango Aurora Mental Health Center 1010 Three Springs Blvd, Ste. 270 791 Chambers Road Durango, CO 81301 Aurora, CO 80011 970-764-3800 303-617-2300 mountain.commonspirit.org auroramhr.org  Telehealth  Telehealth  Medicare/Medicaid  Medicare 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

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

Henry James Frazier, MD Anesthesiology Kaiser Permanente 280 Exempla Circle Lafayette, CO 80026 303-338-4545 kp.org  Telehealth  Medicare/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

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

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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

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

Valerie Hale, MD Radiology Waymon Lattimore, MD National Jewish Health Gastroenterology 1400 Jackson Street Common Spirit - Durango Denver, CO 80206 1010 Three Springs Blvd, Ste. 270 303-388-4461 Durango, CO 81301 nationaljewish.org 970-764-3800 mountain.commonspirit.org  Medicare  Telehealth  Medicare/Medicaid

Colorado Black Health Collaborative

DOCTORS

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

Aqeel Muhammad, MD, MBA Psychiatry Highlands Behavioral Health 8565 Poplar Way Littleton, CO 80130 720-348-2800 highlandsbhs.com aquedmuhammad227@hotmail.com  Telehealth  Medicare

Phil Mitchell, MD, M.S. Mark Murray, MD Emergency Medicine Neurology Parker Adventist Hospital Common Spirit 9395 Crown Crest Boulevard 2222 N. Nevada Avenue, Ste. 5001 Parker, CO 80138 Colorado Springs, CO 80907 303-269-4000 719-776-3580 adventhealth.com mountaincommonspirit.org  Medicare/Medicaid  Telehealth  Medicare Terri L. Montague, MD Nephrology Tashinga Musonza, MD Intermountain Health General Surgery, Bariatric Surgery 5265 Vance Street CommonSpirit - Colorado Springs Arvada, CO 80002 Surgical Associates Penrose 303-232-3366 2222 N. Nevada Avenue intermountainhealthcare.org Colorado Springs, CO 80907 719-776-6810  Telehealth mountain.commonspirit.org  Medicare  Telehealth Sammie Moss, MD  Medicare Psychiatry Kaiser Permanente Gabrielle Mykoniatis, MD 10350 E. Dakota Avenue, Suite B Internal Medicine Denver, CO 80247 Kaiser Permanente East 303-471-7700 10400 East Alameda Avenue healthy.kaiserpermanente.org Denver, CO 80247 303-338-4545  Telehealth kp.org  Medicare/Medicaid  Telehealth Rodney Muhammad, MD  Medicare/Medicaid Family Medicine 3GMC And Fountain Valley Alfred (Ered) Nash, MD Therapeutic Clinic Family Medicine 417 Security Boulevard Patients First Medical Colorado Springs, CO 80911 2121 S. Blackhawk Street 719-368-6628 Aurora, CO 80014 patientfusion.com/doctor/ 303-353-2530 rodney-muhammad-do-92025 auroramed.com  Telehealth  Medicare/Medicaid  Medicare Romano Nweke, MD Internal Medicine Destiny Internal Medicine 1550 S. Potomac, Ste. 110 Aurora, CO 80012 720-324-4777 destinyimpc.com  Telehealth  Medicare/Medicaid

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DOCTORS

Grace Nweke, MD Ndudi Oparaeche, MD Internal Medicine Rheumatology Sunrise Health Care, PC South Denver Rheumatology 4020 Palmer Park Blvd, Ste. 101-B 9570 S. Kingston Court, Ste. 220 Colorado Springs, CO 80909 Englewood, CO 80112 719-577-9977 303-515-2912 sunrisehlthcare.com southdenverrheumatology.com  Medicare/Medicaid  Telehealth  Medicaid Chima Nwizu, MD Family Medicine Dawn Owens-Robinson, MD Center for Weight Loss and Obstetrics/Gynecology Cholesterol Management Advent Health Medical Group 6801 W. 20th Street, Unit 101 OB/GYN Greeley, CO 80634 7233 Church Ranch Boulevard 970-378-8000 Westminster CO 80021 weightclinicatfpgreeley.com 80 Health Park Drive, Ste. 270 Louisville, CO 80027  Telehealth 303-649-3180 Oluyomi Obafemi, MD medicalnewstoday.com Public Health, Infectious Disease  Telehealth Denver Health/Sexual Health Clinic  Medicare 660 Bannock Street, Pavilion L, Floor 2 Denver, CO 80204 Herbert Parris, MD 303-436-4949 Family Medicine denverhealth.org Ageless Aesthetics Medicine Skin Care Clinic  Telehealth 300 S. Jackson Street, Ste. 230  Medicare/Medicaid Denver, CO 80209 Augustine Obinnah, MD 303-320-1515 Internal Medicine  Telehealth UC Health Primary Care - Green Valley Ranch William Peace, MD 4809 Argonne Street, Ste. 100 Orthopedic Surgery Denver, CO 80249 Panorama Orthopedics and Spine 303 -371-0330 Center auroramed.com 660 Golden Ridge Road, Ste. 250 Golden, CO 80401  Telehealth 303-233-1223  Medicare/Medicaid panoramaortho.com Kingsley Okafor, MD wpeace@panoramaortho.com Ophthalmologist  Medicare/Medicaid Colorado Ophthalmology Associates, P.C. Cleveland Piggott, Jr., MD, MPH 3801 E. Florida Avenue, Ste. 720 Assistant Professor, Family Medicine Denver, CO 80210 UCH - A.F. Williams Family Medicine 303-320-1777 Center at Stapleton coloradoopthalmology.com 3055 Roslyn Street, Ste. 100 Denver, CO 80238  Telehealth 720-848-9000  Medicare ucdenver.edu Joseph C. Onyiah, MD  Telehealth Gastroenterology  Medicare/Medicaid Rocky Mountain Va Medical Center 1055 Clermont Street Denver, CO 80220 303-399-8020 va.gov  Medicare/Medicaid

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Colorado Black Health Collaborative

Raynaria Pitts, MD Cardiology Aurora Denver Cadiology Associates Thornton 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

DOCTORS

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

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

Gary Simpson, DO Orthopedic Surgery Common Spirit Colorado Springs Orthopaedic Group 4110 Briargate Parkway, Ste. 300 Colorado Springs, CO 80920 719-632-7669 Brenda Walker-Conner, MD mountain.commonspirit.org Family Medicine Tutt Lifecenter  Telehealth 6945 Tutt Blvd  Medicare Colorado Springs, CO 80923 Lanette Stewart, MD 719-380-7325 Anesthesiology and Perioperative paladinahealth.com Medicine  Telehealth Denver Health 777 Bannock Street, Pavilion A Spencer Walker, MD Denver, CO 80204 Family Medicine 303-436-4949 Advent Health Primary Care denverhealth.org 7720 S. Broadway, Ste. 350 Littleton, CO 80122  Telehealth 720-528-3559  Medicare/Medicaid adventhealth.com Francis Thompson, MD  Telehealth Family Medicine  Medicare/Medicaid VA Eastern Colorado Health Care System Erik Wallace, MD, FACP 1700 N. Wheeling Street Primary Care - Internal Medicine Aurora, CO 80045 Oak Street Health 720-357-5283 2877 East Fountain Boulevard va.gov Colorado Springs, CO 80908 719-493-9903  Telehealth  Medicare/Medicaid 740 Peoria Street Cherriese Thompson, MD Aurora, CO 80011 Family Medicine 720-893-4379 DH - Parkhill Family Health Center oakstreethealth.com 4995 E. 33rd Avenue  Telehealth Denver, CO 80207  Medicare/Medicaid 303-602-3720  Telehealth  Medicare/Medicaid

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DOCTORS

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 Clinic Central Park 3055 Roslyn Street, Unit 230 Denver, CO 80238 720-553-2850 obgyn.coloradowomenshealth.com  Telehealth  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

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

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Colorado Black Health Collaborative

Enroll in health insurance today You can enroll in health insurance during Open Enrollment which runs November 1 - January 15.

Outside of that, you can enroll in a plan if you have experienced a qualifying life-change event.

We are the place where you can: • Enroll in quality coverage • Apply for financial help • Get free enrollment help from local, certified experts • Compare health insurance plans

855-752-6749 • ConnectforHealthCO.com Colorado’s official health insurance marketplace

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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.

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ARTICLE

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 Shirika Cousin Chair methods. Adaptations New Hope Baptist Church Health included frying and and Wellness Ministry 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.

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.

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

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FAITH & HEALTH MINISTRIES

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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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

Colorado Black Health Collaborative

House of Joy Miracle 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

FAITH & HEALTH MINISTRIES

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

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

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

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

New Covenant Christian Church Alpha 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

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

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

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

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

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

Shorter Community A.M.E. Church 3100 Richard Allen Court Denver, CO 80205 303-320-1712 shorterame.org

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

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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.

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ARTICLE

We Need to Find a Way to Move!

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!

Thal Woods Sports Performance Director Athletics & 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.

• 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!

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ARTICLE

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FITNESS & RECREATION

A1 Boxing and Fitness Glenn Goodson Boxing and Fitness 700 S. Buckley Road Aurora, CO 80016 720-600-4984 a1boxingfitness.com

J5 Strength & Conditioning Jason Vaughn Fitness 10525 E. 40th Avenue, Unit 201 Denver, CO 80239 720-441-3554 j5sc.com

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

Athletics & Beyond Major Taylor Cycling Club Of Thal Woods Denver Fitness, Student Athlete Program Denver, CO 4990 Nome Street, Unit C 720-403-6801 Denver, CO 80239 majortaylorcyclingclubofdenver@ 720-845-1712 gmail.com aabwellness4990@gmail.com

Master Yosvany Taekwondo Academy Bodies by Perseverance Master Yosvany Courtney Samuels Martial Arts, Taekwondo 3030 N. Downing Street 18601 E.Green Valley Ranch Denver, CO 80205 Boulevard, Unit 104 Denver, CO 80249 2493 Dallas Street - Stanley 303-552-1153 Marketplace mytkda1@gmail.com Aurora, CO 802010 yosvanykd.com 303-506-3253 mybbp.com Midas Touch Movement Brandon Kelley Body Shaping Company Personal Training Demetrius Simpson 2300 Welton Street Body Shaping/Fitness Denver, CO 80205 1998 N. Downing Street, Ste. B 303-257-7772 Denver, CO 80218 beingbk@gmail com 303-831-0777 facebook.com/ bodyshapingco.com midastouchmovementclub 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

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

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

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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.

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RECIPE

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.

Adrian Miller The Soul Food Scholar

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

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.

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)

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RECIPE

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.

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Colorado Black Health Collaborative

ARTICLE

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.

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 Jo Ann Pegues Registered Dietitian Nutritionist/Retired should not eat is tied to Academy of Nutrition & Dietetics (AND) where individuals are, National Organization of Blacks in Dietetics and Nutrition (NOBIDAN) 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.

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.

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.

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FOOD & NUTRITION

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 Taskforce Food 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

NUTRITION 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 Food Bank of the Rockies Denver, CO 80205 foodbankrockies.org/find-food 720-285-2025 Food Connect Colorado Village Exchange Center Free Food Marketplace Village Pantry 12455 E. Mississippi Avenue, #101 1609 Havana Street Aurora, CO 80012 Aurora, CO 80010 foodconnectcolorado.org 720-668-9968 info@villageexchangecenter.org Hunger Free Colorado Hotline 855-855-4626 hungerfreecolorado.org

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Colorado Black Health Collaborative

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

EMPOWERING CHILDREN FROM MARGINALIZED POPULATIONS

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

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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.

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HEALTH ORGANIZATIONS

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.

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.

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.

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 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 Denver and Aurora Shay Jacobs Executive Director adamspurpose.org

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.

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HEALTH ORGANIZATIONS

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.

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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

HEALTH ORGANIZATIONS

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.

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

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

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HEALTH ORGANIZATIONS

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.

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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

HEALTH ORGANIZATIONS

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

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HEALTH ORGANIZATIONS

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.

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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

HEALTH ORGANIZATIONS

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.

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

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 2024 Black Health Resource Directory

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HEALTH ORGANIZATIONS

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

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HEALTH ORGANIZATIONS

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

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HEALTH ORGANIZATIONS

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.

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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

HEALTH ORGANIZATIONS

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 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

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.

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HEALTH ORGANIZATIONS

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.

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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

HEALTH ORGANIZATIONS

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

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HEALTH ORGANIZATIONS

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.

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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

HEALTH ORGANIZATIONS

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

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

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.

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HEALTH ORGANIZATIONS

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

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HEALTH ORGANIZATIONS

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.

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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

HEALTH ORGANIZATIONS

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 2024 Black Health Resource Directory

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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.

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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

HEALTH ORGANIZATIONS

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

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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.

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HIV/AIDS

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

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

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

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

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

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

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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.

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HOLISTIC HEALTH

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 Certified AcuDetox Specialist 14211 E. 4th Avenue, Bldg 3, Ste. 305 Denver, CO 80011

Jiridon Apothecary Monticue Connally Certified Medicine Herbalist Denver, CO 80202 720-203-9008 jiridonapothecary@gmail.com

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

Urban Sanctuary Ali Duncan Yoga 2745 Welton Street Denver, CO 80205 303-993-2420 urbansanctuary.love

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 hebossgrp.net

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 Aurora, CO 303-656-9288 aopyo.org

1391 Delaware Street Aurora, CO 80204 720-638-8397 thedontlookbackcenter.org Innerworking Dr. Laura Excell, PhD, ND, APN, RN, LPC Nurse Herbalist, Psychotherapist 303-900-7236 innerworking@protonmail.com

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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.

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ARTICLE

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.

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MATERNAL HEALTH

MIDWIVES

DOULAS

OTHER RESOURCES

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

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

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

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

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

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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

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Postpartum Support International (PSI) postpartum.net

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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.

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ARTICLE

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 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.

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!

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.

We Must Do Better

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

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!

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.”

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MENTAL HEALTH

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

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

Kareem Ahmenatu Life Coach Shadow Integration Coaching To Heal a People

303-564-3079 kam5@rocketmail.com tohealapeople.com

Roy Burns, LPCC Eugene Battle, LPC Counselor Counselor Menelik Counseling Services Battleground Counseling 14261 E.4th 13696 E. Iliff Avenue, Ste 122 Avenue, Building 6, Ste. 170 Aurora CO 80014 Aurora, CO 80011 3035 W. 25th Avenue 816-882-0569 Denver, CO 80211 battleground.counseling@gmail.com 720-792-6524 roy@mcounseling.co  Telehealth  Telehealth Selam Beyene, LCSW Cognitive Behavior Therapy Giovanni Casseus, LPCC Anxiety, depression, grief, and loss Mental Health Counseling Open Path to Psychotherapy 2255 Sheridan Blvd C224 Collective Edgwater, CO 80214 1311 Race Street 720-575-9889 Denver, CO 80206 info@khesedwellness.com info@openpathcollective.org khesedwellness.com openpathcollective.org Ayonna Chappell, LPC  Telehealth Therapy Diverus Health Brandon Michael Bolden, LMFT, CIGT 115 S. Parkside Drive Marriage and Family Therapist Colorado Springs, CO 80910 2101 S. Blackhawk Street, Ste. 240 719-572-6100 Aurora, CO 80014  Telehealth 720- 279-4654 Brenda Clark Dandridge MA, LPC Harvey Bowden, BS, CAS Mental Individual, couples, and family Health and Wellness, Substance counseling Abuse and Harm Reduction Victory Counseling Support 13693 E. Iliff Avenue, Ste. 112 Mile High Resilience and Wellness Aurora, CO 80014 720-275-1903 720-808-0924 milehighrw@gmail.com  Telehealth

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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

MENTAL HEALTH

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

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MENTAL HEALTH

Jaurene James-Blacklock, LPC Betsaida Kringel, MSW Licensed Therapist. Individual/ Counselor family/substance abuse therapy; The Center for Trauma and Resilience relapse prevention/ DUI groups P.O. Box 18975 Changing Patterns, LLC Denver, CO 80218 12101 E. 2nd Avenue, Ste. 108 303- 894-8000 HELP LINE Aurora, CO 80011

720-523-0710 Hassan Latif, CACIII Addiction Counselor. Community re Medicaid entry program, addiction counseling Matthew Jarvis, MA, M.Ed, LPC, LAC, Second Chance Center EMDR 224 Potomac Street Licensed Professional Counselor Aurora, CO 80011 and Licensed Addictions Counselor.

303-537-5838 Addictive behaviors, relationships, info@SCCcolorado.org anxiety, depression, PTSD scccolorado.org Courage to Change Counseling Services, LLC Brandon Lee, LMFT 1633 Fillmore Street Marriage & Family Therapist Denver, CO 80206 Family Care Center Lowry 720- 636-9420 63 N. Quebec, #201 denveraddictionhelp.com Denver, CO 80230

720-637-3840 Janelle Johnson, MA, LPC, NCC Licensed Professional Counselor Reo N.Leslie, Jr., D Min., LPC, LMFT, Relationship conflict, emotional NCC, RPT-S, CAC I regulation, anxiety, and grief & loss Dr. Evelyn Leslie, LMFT, RPT-S, LAC. Life Balance Counseling MAC 3190 S. Vaughn Way​​​​​​, Ste. 550 Marriage and Family Therapist, Aurora, CO 80014 Addiction Therapy 720-940-9299 Colorado School for Family Therapy lifebalancecounseling@hotmail.com 12101 E. 2nd Avenue, Ste. 101 janellejohnson.org Aurora, CO 80011 720-253-4831 Ralph Jones, EdD, EdS, DAPA, CFI, drLeslie@familyplaytherapy.net LMFT familyplaytherapy.net Marriage & Family Therapist Family Works Rev. Marjorie B Lewis Ph.D., D. Min., 90 Madison Street, Ste. 100 LMFT, LAC, CSPT Denver, CO 80206 Licensed Marriage and Family 720-513-2019 Therapist. Addictions Counselor.

Rehabilitation and Reentry  Medicaid Center For Community Excellence Melanie Klinke, MFTC And Social Justice Marriage & Family Therapist Associate. 1600 N. Downing Street, Ste. 200 Virtual therapy sessions Aurora, CO 80218 Healing Works 303-831-4500 720-388-6320 info@healingworks.co Jerrod D. McCoy, MA ,LPC healingworks.co Licensed Professional Counselor.

Coping skills, internet addiction, Geofrey Kosgei,NP divorce. Men only divorce group in Family Psychiatric and Mental Health Greeley and Denver, CO Nurse Practioner 970-302-2107 301 N. Main Street, Ste. 114 Pueblo, CO 80103 719-781-3381

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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

MENTAL HEALTH

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

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MENTAL HEALTH

Dawn Tripp Director SW Colorado Mental Health Hospital Pueblo 1600 W. 24th Street Pueblo, CO 81003 719-546-4000 cdhs.colorado.gov/CMHHIP

Alice West-Goers LCSW Therapist AWG Counseling Services 1210 S. Parker Road, #210 Denver, CO 80231 720-988-9482 info@Alicewestgoers.com awgcounseling.com

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

Michael Wilkins, LCSW Family Therapist Comitis Crisis Center 2178 Victor Street Aurora, CO 80045 303-341-9160

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

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

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

Linda Williams, MA, LPC, CAC III Colorado Crisis Line RPT Support and counseling for individuals Desarae Lisa Walker, MA, CECP Therapy Marriage and Family Therapy, or loved ones Cognitive Behavioral Specialist. PTSD Trauma Therapy Text 988 or 38255 and Trauma.

303-861-2004 1-844-493-TALK 2020 N. Academy Boulevard, Ste. 385 coloradocrisisservices.org  Telehealth Colorado Springs, CO 80909

 Medicaid 719-822-0386

JaLisa Williams, MSW, LCSW

 Medicaid Therapist. BIPOC, Queer folk, teens Gwendolyn Walker, RPT, MSW, MSS, Yemaya Innergy Therapeutics B.DIV 390 S. Potomac Way, Ste. C Psychotherapist. Individuals, couples, Aurora, CO 80012 grief and loss, depression. Spiritual.

720-463-4167 Metamorphosis Counseling Services, LLC Brittney Wright, MA,LPC, NCC 11973 E. Canal Drive Therapist. Virtual. Waiting list Aurora, CO 80011 Healing Words Counseling 720-605-1451 1210 S. Parker Rd, Ste. 210 Denver, CO 80231  Telehealth 720-248-8774 DeAnna Welch, MA, LPC healingwordscounseling.com Multicultural Counseling.

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

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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.

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OPTOMETRISTS

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

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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

Colorado Black Health Collaborative

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.

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ARTICLE

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.

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.

Raymond A. Jetson Founder Aging While Black

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.

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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.

ARTICLE

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.

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

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.

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.

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?

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ARTICLE

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.

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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

SENIORS

AARP Colorado Alzheimer’s Association Senior Law Handbook AARP is a nonprofit, nonpartisan Colorado Chapter Colorado Bar Association organization dedicated to A trusted resource for information, The 2024 Colorado Senior Law empowering Americans 50 and older education, referral and support to Handbook is designed to provide to choose how they live as they millions of people affected by memory seniors, their caregivers, and families, age. AARP membership provides a concerns. Their free 24/7 Helpline, useful information on many subjects wide array of benefits and savings.

800-272-3900 offers support when pertinent to their legal concerns. The AARP also advocates for seniors on you need it. information provided in the Senior important issues that matter to you, 455 N. Sherman Street, Ste. 500 Law Handbook is not intended to your family, and the community.

Denver, CO 80203 replace the advice and services of an 303 E. 17th Avenue 303-813-1669 attorney.

Denver, CO 80203 alz.org/co seniorlawhandbook.org 1-888-687-2277 / 1-866-554-5376

states.aarp.org/colorado Aurora Center for Active Adults SilverSneakers

Offers services through a partnership Seniors 65 and older may be eligible Access-a-Ride with Volunteers of America, Visiting for Silver Sneakers if they are enrolled Access-a-Ride is a shared ride public Nurse’s Association, AARP Safe Driving in a Medicare Advantage plan that transportation service for those Course and AARP Tax Assistance. The offers SilverSneakers as a benefit. who are unable to use RTD’s nonCenter provides a stimulating and 866-584-7389 commuter bus and light rail services engaging environment with activities due to a disability. that contribute to the health and wellTOPS CO 0677 at Zion Senior Center 303-299-6000 being of adults over 50 years old.

The TOPS mission statement is “to rtd-denver.com 30 Del Mar Circle help and support our members as

Aurora, CO 80011 they Take Off and Keep Off Pounds African American Caregiver 303-739-7950 Sensibly.” This is a peer-to-peer group Support Group (Lutheran Family in the community that focuses on Services of Colorado) Caregiver’s Guardian accountability, lasting friendships, Older adult and caregiver services Nadine Cornish and leaning on the people who are in 1035 Osage Street, Ste. 700 A Denver, Colorado-based consulting similar shoes.

Denver, CO 80205 service supporting, encouraging, and 5151 E. 33rd Avenue 303-922-3433 advocating for the family caregiver.

Denver, CO 80207 nichellestinggers@lfso.org The Caregiver’s Guardian can help 303-905-7171 oacs@lfsm.org family members learn about the suekimball35@gmail.com

unique challenges and stressors as

African Americans in Gerontology well as how these can be managed Zion Senior Center Aisha Young and resolved.

The Center is a welcoming place African Americans in Gerontology 820 S. Monaco Parkway, #342 where older adults and the provides guidance and professional Denver, CO 80224 community interface. It promotes development opportunities, and 303-394-1963 physical and mental health through promotes community activism for info@tcgcares.com recreation, social interaction, and African American professionals and tcgcares.com education. students in the field of gerontology.

5151 E. 33rd Avenue The ultimate purpose is to improve Colorado Seniors Resource Guide Denver, CO 80207 the quality of life for African American The goal of this Guide is to make it 303-333-5746 elderly. easier for people to learn about senior

P.O. Box 8148 resources and services so they can

Colorado Springs, CO 80933 advocate for their needs. The content

719-581-9437 is designed to be helpful! info@blacksngerontology.org seniorsresourceguide.com blacksingerontology.org

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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.

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ARTICLE

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.

Tracy Gilford Project Coordinator Colorado Black Health Collaborative

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.

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SUPPORTIVE ORGANIZATIONS

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

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

Colorado Healing Initiative within Black Child Development Institute Communities (CHIC) (BCDI) Colorado Offers a variety of services in BCDI’s mission is to empower black intervention and prevention that children, families, and communities to address economic deprivation, mental thrive, flourish, and prosper by health, youth violence and the overall championing holistic well-being and stability of the family. fostering a bright future for all.

10660 E. Colfax Avenue, Ste. A P.O. Box 7453 Aurora, CO 80010 Denver, CO 80207 303-993-8511 720-505-1687 info@chicdenver.org denver@affliates.nbcdi.org chicdenver.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

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

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 Women Denver 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

Girl Trek Recreation/health/exercise 1800 Wyoming Avenue, NW Floor 2 Washington, DC 20009 202-808-8419 girltrek.corg

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SUPPORTIVE ORGANIZATIONS

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

BLACK-OWNED PHARMACIES

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

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

Montbello Family Health Center Denver Health Primary care clinic 12600 E. Albrook Drive Denver, CO 80239 303-436-4949 denverhealth.org

Saddlerock Pharmacy Dr. Akosua Mensa, PharmD, Owner 12200 E. Briarwood Avenue Centennial, CO 80112 720-353-4212 saddlerockpharmacy.com

Parkhill Family Health Center Denver Health Primary care clinic 4995 E. 33rd Avenue Denver, CO 80207 303-436-4949 denverhealth.org

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

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

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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.

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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.

A multifaceted approach that includes community support, governmental initiatives, and nonprofit organizations is essential for addressing the mental health needs of Black veterans.

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.

There are organizations like the National Association for Black Sheila Hughes Licensed Professional Counselor/ Veterans (NABV).

Licensed Addiction Counselor 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.

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.

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.

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

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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

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

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

In Memoriam to Perry Ayers (left), Colorado Black Arts Festival Founder.

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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.

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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.

Dr. Lisa Roy Executive Director Colorado Department of Early Childhood

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.

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!

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!

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YOUTH

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

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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

Colorado Black Health Collaborative

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

YOUTH

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

Project Voyce Youth program 2900 Downing Street, #1B Denver, CO 80205 team@projectvoyce.org projectvoyce.org

The Urban Farm Youth farm and agriculture community program 10200 Smith Road Denver, CO 80239 720-414-6141 info@theurbanfarm.org theurbanfarm.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

Urban Colors Arts and Mentoring - UCAM Youth Program urbancolors.org

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

Pirates Youth Football Organization Youth football program 5600 E. 35th Avenue Denver, CO 80207 720-251-6208 info@parkhillpirates.org parkhillpirates.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

STARZ Girlz Empowerment, Inc. Shalonda Palmer Girls mentorship program 2360 Dayton Street My Brother’s and Sister’s Aurora, CO 80110 Keeper - Denver 303-862-7236 720-617-1428 empowerme@stargirlzempower.org mbskco.org stargirlzempower.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

Vibe Tribe Adventures Jessica Newton Facilitate urban community reconnection to nature rich places.

720-840-0289 vibetribeadventures.org

Youth Seen QTBIPoC youth support program P.O. Box 387 Broomfield, CO 80018 720-788-0062 youthseen.org info@youthseen.org

Street Fraternity Boys youth program 8720 E. Colfax Avenue, Ste. 100 Denver, CO 80220 720-389-6381 admin@streetfraternityusa.org streetfraternityusa.org

Z Place Youth/Family support program 4800 Telluride Street Denver, CO 80249 zplace.org

Struggle of Love Foundation Youth program 12000 E. 47th Avenue, Ste. #403.

Denver, CO 80239 720-923-6122 comms@struggleoflovefoundation.org struggleoflovefoundation.org

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BL

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LORADO CO

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3025 South Parker Road, Ste. #737 Aurora, Colorado 80014 720-579-2126 info@coloradoblackhealth.org In partnership with

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