Issue Spring/Summer 2024 by Minority Health

INSTITUTE FOR THE ADVANCEMENT OF MINORITY HEALTH

COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS In This Issue:

SPRING/SUMMER 2024

• Institute declares that Black Men Matter

• Breastfeeding Initiative helps moms in Central MS and the MS Delta

• Outreach activities help reduce disparities

Better Beginnings: Institute Works to Improve Maternal and Child Health Outcomes in

Mississippi

Maternal and child health outcomes are important because they impact the health of future generations and can affect the health of the entire community.

The health of mothers and children determines the health of future generations. A healthy pregnancy can reduce the risk of infant mortality and morbidity.

DrPH, MPH, Chief Executive Officer

Maternal and child health is a public health issue because it can impact the health care system, families, and communities.

When women are healthy, they can contribute to the workforce, support their families, and promote economic growth. Many deaths among women, infants, and children are preventable with the right care and resources. Despite its importance, maternal health care has no shortage of challenges. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), each year in the U.S. approximately 700 women die due to complications associated with pregnancy or delivery. Additionally, more than 80% of deaths associated with pregnancy are preventable.

Maternal health care is complex. It encompasses aspects of both mental and physical health, and a range of social and economic factors significantly influence the accessibility and quality of maternal health care. Solving the issues that confront maternal health requires dedicated professionals who aspire to make a difference. Data from the Mississippi State Department of Health (2021) show that Mississippi has a high maternal mortality rate, which is the number of deaths that occur to women while pregnant or within 42 days of giving birth. In 2021, the maternal mortality rate was 82.5 deaths per 100,000 births. Mississippi’s maternal mortality rate is much higher than the national average of 17.4 deaths per 100,000 live births.

The state is working to reduce the maternal mortality rate through community outreach and training programs. The Institute for the Advancement of Minority Health works daily to address the social determinants of health that drive the high rates of maternal mortality in the state. For us to address these social determinants of health, we must work with both traditional and nontraditional stakeholders. The health of our society depends on the health of our women and children.

Let’s work together to make a difference and make our communities safe for women and children in Mississippi. This means promoting breastfeeding, improving access to healthcare, and linking women and children to resources to increase the likelihood of improved maternal and infant health outcomes. Working together, we can reduce health disparities, one community at a time in Mississippi.

Sandra Carr Melvin, DrPH, MPH, MLS

Sandra C. Melvin CEO/Founding President Institute for the Advancement of Minority Health

Sandra C. Melvin,

Activist and Attorney Empowers Audience at Black Men’s Health Equity Conference

BEFORE he spoke to millions at the Democratic National Convention, Dr. Yusef Salaam inspired over 100 attendees during the Black Men’s Health Equity Conference sponsored by the Institute for the Advancement of Minority Health.

The second annual Black Men’s Health Equity Conference was held on Saturday, June 29, 2024, at the Hilton Jackson (MS). Using the theme Black Men Matter: Uplifting, Educating, and Healing, community leaders, health professionals, and advocates addressed the pressing health disparities facing Black men. The conference provided a platform for deep discussions on the systemic barriers that Black men face in accessing equitable healthcare.

Dr. Yusef Salaam

In addition to Dr. Salaam, the conference featured keynote speeches from civil rights attorney Edward Blackmon. Attorney Blackmon’s address highlighted the importance of legal advocacy in dismantling these barriers, while Salaam’s powerful testimony underscored the critical connection between social justice and health equity.

In addition to the keynote speeches, the conference featured several panels and workshops on mental health, chronic disease prevention, and communitybased solutions. These sessions

facilitated meaningful dialogue among participants, who shared strategies and best practices for improving health outcomes for Black men.

The conference also emphasized the role of community engagement in advancing health equity. Attendees left with actionable steps and a renewed commitment to advocate for policies and initiatives that address the unique health challenges of Black men in Mississippi.

Sponsored by the Institute for the Advancement of Minority Health, the Black Men’s Health Equity Council, and the Mississippi State Conference of the NAACP, the conference is held annually. For more information about the Black Men’s Health Equity Conference, visit www.minority-institute.org

Attorney Edward Blackmon

The Institute Plans to Educate 100 Black Mothers on Breastfeeding

The Institute for the Advancement of Minority Health has launched a new initiative to boost breastfeeding rates among Black women in the Mississippi Delta and Central Mississippi. The EmpoweredMommies, NourishedBabies, HealthierFamilies initiative is designed to educate 100 Black mothers with the knowledge and support necessary to successfully breastfeed.

Breastfeeding provides numerous health benefits for both mothers and infants. This includes stronger immune systems, reduced obesity rates, and a lower risk of certain chronic conditions. However, Black women in Mississippi and across the nation often face unique challenges, which leads to lower rates of breastfeeding initiation and continuation. “Our mission is to close the breastfeeding

gap and ensure that Black women have access to the resources and support they need,” said Dr. Sandra Melvin, CEO and Founding President of the Institute for the Advancement of Minority Health. “By reaching 100 women in the Mississippi Delta and Central Mississippi, we are making a meaningful impact on maternal and infant health in our communities.”

This initiative is part of the Institute’s ongoing efforts to address health disparities and promote wellness among minority populations. The initiative will include the distribution of educational

Our mission is to close the breastfeeding gap and ensure that Black women have access to the resources and support they need,

“ ”

said Dr. Sandra Melvin, CEO and Founding President of the Institute for the Advancement of Minority Health.

resources, a social media campaign, and access to essential resources such as breastfeeding supplies and diapers. For more information, contact iamh@advancingminorityhealth.org

RMOMS Program Offers Access to Maternity and Obstetrics Care

The Institute for the Advancement of Minority Health is committed to improving maternal health outcomes in rural and underserved communities. Through the launch of the Rural Maternity and Obstetrics Management Strategies (RMOMS) program, the Institute will increase access to prenatal and obstetric services to mothers and infants throughout the Mississippi Delta.

A key component of the RMOMS program is Remote Patient Monitoring (RPM). RPM will help mothers monitor their blood pressure, glucose, and weight during pregnancy. Using weight scales, blood pressure/glucose monitors, and computer tablets provided by the RMOMS program, participants can check their vital signs, and record and report their results.

The RMOMS system is critical for mothers who have or are at risk for hypertension or diabetes. Program participants can access resources such as transportation, mental health services, and a Baby Depot. The Baby Depot will provide diapers, nutrition, and personal hygiene necessities to RMOMS participants and Medicaideligible Central MS residents.

The RMOMS program is available to individuals who are pregnant and meet the following criteria,

• between the ages of 16-45,

• 20 weeks or less in gestation,

• reside in one of the following MS counties: Bolivar, Coahoma, Issaquena, Leflore, Washington, Sunflower, or Sharkey counties, and utilize Delta Health System, Delta Health Center or South Sunflower Hospital in Sunflower County.

Individuals interested in the RMOMS program can receive a referral from their local health center and a care coordinator will assist with registration. For more information, contact minority-institute.org/RMOMS

The Institute for the Advancement of Minority Health Infectious Disease team was booked and busy in February. Outreach activities kicked off on February 10, 2024, with a vaccine clinic at Word and Worship Church in Jackson, MS. This was a face-to-face event, and nine people received vaccines.

February 2024 Infectious Disease Team Achieves Success in February

The team was activated on Valentine’s Day (February 14) and supported two events. Staff participated in the Jackson Public School District Youth Symposium on February 14, 2024. During the symposium, 52 students received information on COVID-19, Tobacco, MPOX, and Opioid Prevention.

The IAMH HIV Prevention team collaborated with Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. ®, Rho Lambda Omega Chapter, Links, Inc., (Jackson, MS Chapter), and Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc., Jackson Alumni Chapter for the Happy Hearts of Service Health Fair at the Veteran Affairs Hospital in Jackson, MS. Forty-one participants received bags containing contraceptives and oral hygiene health items. IAMH was able to speak to participants to reduce stigma and potentially reduce new cases of HIV.

HIV VIRUS

March 2024

Lunch and Learn Addresses

Vaccine Hesitancy

Eighteen individuals attended a Lunch and Learn: Addressing Vaccine Confidence, Hesitancy, and Uptake on March 18, 2024.

Black Family Wellness Expo Supports Local Residents

On March 16, 2024, the Institute for the Advancement of Minority Health partnered with the local chapters of the Links, Inc., for the Black Family Wellness Expo. The expo was held at Jackson Hinds Comprehensive Health Center, located in Jackson, MS.

Seventy participants visited IAMH’s table and received information on sexual health, COVID-19, Maternal and Child Health, health equity, MPox, Black Men’s Health Equity, and opioid misuse. COVID-19 PPE and feminine health kits were also distributed.

The CEO and Founding President, Dr. Sandra Melvin spoke with wellness fair attendees about the Institute and its programs.

Wellness Fair Services Delta Residents April 2024

Yazoo City Conference Empowers Women and Girls

Southern Health Alliance and the Institute for the Advancement of Minority Health collaborated to host the Women & Girls EmpowHERment Conference. The conference, which began at 8:30 a.m., was held at the Triangle Cultural Center in Yazoo City, MS.

Through a series of engaging workshops, panel discussions, and keynote addresses, attendees had the opportunity to explore topics such as self-love, mental health, substance abuse, HIV/AIDS/STI prevention, and domestic violence.

Speakers were Shawnte Spriggs, Dr. Joyce Keller Turner, and Dominique Grant. The conference was free and open to girls ages 13-17 in the Yazoo City area. Southern Health Alliance

hosted this event in collaboration with the Institute for the Advancement of Minority Health; First Choice Home Care, LLC; The S.H.E. Project; Dream Innovations; Cry Out Teen, Org.; and Mississippi in Action.

On April 27, 2024, the IAMH team traveled to Cary, MS to host the Treasure Your Health Wellness Fair. Fifty-four people received services.

On April 29, 2024, IAMH continued their COVID Conversations webinars. Seventeen people participated.

May 2024

Yoga on the Rez: A Community Comes Together for Mental Health Awareness

The Institute for the Advancement of Minority Health partnered with Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.,® Rho Lambda Omega Chapter, to host a meaningful Mental Health Awareness event— Yoga on the Rez. Held in a serene and peaceful setting on May 11, the event drew 100 participants who were eager to engage in practices that promote mental well-being.

The morning began with a yoga session led by Maya Morris, owner of Split Rebel Yoga Studio.

The gentle yoga session and sound bath provided the men and women in attendance an opportunity to unwind, ground, and connect. Following the yoga session, participants were encouraged to journal in order to process their emotions and thoughts.

A highlight of the day was the presentation by a licensed therapist, who offered practical tips and insights on managing mental health using various Hip Hop and R&B song titles. The therapist’s guidance was enlightening and equipped attendees with strategies to enhance their mental well-being. “Rho Lambda Omega is always appreciative of the support provided by the Institute,” said Maya Thompson, event coordinator. “We look forward to working together on other projects.”

2024

National HIV Testing Day

Was a Success

The Institute for the Advancement of Minority Health implemented a successful National HIV Day campaign. National HIV Testing events included social media posts, media interviews, radio advertisements, and outreach activities in the Mississippi Delta.

On Thursday, June 27, 2024, staff provided free HIV testing to 108 individuals at Walgreens in Cleveland, MS.

July 2024

Institute’s Media Campaign Addresses the State’s Rising STI Rates

The Institute for the Advancement of Minority Health recently concluded a media campaign aimed at tackling the increase in sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in Mississippi. The campaign, titled It’s Too Hott to Be Positive, focused on raising awareness, promoting safe sex practices, and encouraging regular testing.

Recent data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) indicated that Mississippi has some of the highest rates of STIs in the country. With cases of gonorrhea, chlamydia, and syphilis on the rise, this campaign came at a crucial time to engage the community in discussions about sexual health and prevention. The campaign theme was a clever play on words that linked the intense Mississippi summer heat to the increasing STI rates in the State.

Through social media platforms, outdoor advertising, and radio interviews, the Institute provided the public with the necessary information and resources to make safe and informed choices.

Campaign Highlights

• Engaging Content: The It’s Too Hott to Be Positive campaign featured a series of informative and eyecatching graphics, videos, and posts across popular social media platforms, including Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.

• Community Involvement: The Institute collaborated with Alpha Media (Jackson, MS) and RCI Delta (Cleveland, MS) to amplify the message and ensure it reached a broad audience.

Thousands of Mississippians engaged with posts, accessed educational resources, and shared the content with their networks during the campaign. For more information about the Institute for the Advancement of Minority Health and its programs, visit www.minority-institute.org.

August 2024

The Institute Supports Metro Students During the

Back-to-School Season

The Institute for the Advancement of Minority Health kicked off the academic school year by donating school supplies and personal protective equipment (PPE) to support students returning to school. This initiative is part of the Institute’s ongoing commitment to ensuring the health and well-being of minority communities.

On August 3, 2024, the Institute partnered with Word and Worship Church for a Backto-School Bash. During the bash, over 100 backpacks filled with school supplies were distributed. Students receiving backpacks ranged from kindergarten to college. The Back-to-School Bash provided a platform to distribute school supplies, offer health resources and information, and share valuable information with families. “Education is an important component to reducing health disparities,” said Dr. Lakitha Hughes, event coordinator. “We are grateful to Dr. Melvin and her team for their help.”

During an outreach event at Hinds Community College (Utica Campus) on August 16, 2024, Institute staff distributed hand sanitizer, face masks and COVID-19 information. Mr. Donny Epting, Dean of Students at Hinds CC (Utica Campus) was appreciative of the Institute’s donation of PPE kits. “Thank you to the Institute for the Advancement of Minority for the donation of 200 PPE kits. We are eternally grateful.”

Spotlight New Employee

Director of Communications

What are your job duties?

I am responsible for crafting impactful messaging, developing communication strategies, and overseeing the creation of promotional and informative materials for distribution. I manage various media formats including press releases, digital campaigns, print materials, social media, audio, and video content

What are the goals for the position?

To ensure that our clients, funders, and partners are aware of the amazing outreach implemented by the Institute.

What do you like about working at the Institute for the Advancement of Minority Health?

I enjoy the professional atmosphere that allows individuals to excel and grow.

Degree (s) and Alma Mater

Marilyn W. Reed

Bachelor of Arts-English Communications, Alcorn State University

Master of Science-Mass Communications/Public Relations, Jackson State University

Organization Membership/Certifications

Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc®.

Hobbies/Passions

Reading, fitness, traveling and social justice

Little Known Fun Fact

My favorite music is Country Western and Old School Hip Hop.

Spotlight New Employee

Webmaster/Social Media Manager

What are your job duties?

I manage the IAMH website, ensuring that it is up-to-date, informative, and engaging. I develop and execute strategies to increase the website’s online visibility and engagement with the community. I stay up-to-date with the latest trends and best practices in web development, social media marketing, and digital marketing to ensure that the Institute is always ahead of the competition.

What are the goals for the position?

To collaborate and develop my skillset. To increase my personal growth in ways that allow me to become more involved with social issues.

What do you like about working at the Institute for the Advancement of Minority Health?

Frederick Smith

Being able to engage with my colleagues and contribute to the organizational culture enables me to have a positive impact on society by maintaining a healthy work-life balance.

Degree (s) and Alma Mater

Bachelor of Science, University of Phoenix

Organization Membership/Certifications

JI Martin 701 Masonic and Rissah 130 Shriners

Hobbies/Passions

Golfing, Fishing, and Traveling

Little Known Fun Fact

I love music, and I am a hobbyist.

Spotlight New Employee

Program Manager

Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Equity

Tobacco Control

What are your job duties?

I develop, implement, and evaluate health promotion programs for chronic diseases.

What are the goals for the position?

To learn this role and become an expert in the role

What do you like about working at the Institute for the Advancement of Minority Health?

The community, the purpose of the Institute and, the acts of service.

Degree(s) and Alma Mater

Bachelors in Exercise Science, The University of Mississippi

Masters in Health Promotion, The University of Memphis

Organization Membership/Certifications

Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc.

Certified Health Education Specialis (CHES)

Hobbies/Passions

Traveling and Community Service

Little Known Fun Fact

I am a Leo. My favorite color is orange, and I have a 7-year-old son - wow!

Shelethia Whisenton

Spotlight New Employee

Grant Management Specialist

What are your job duties?

As a Grant Management Specialist, I’m responsible for overseeing the administration of grants, ensuring compliance with funding requirements, and managing the financial aspects of grants. This includes tasks like processing grant applications, monitoring grant expenditures, preparing reports, and supporting grantees. I also ensure that all activities comply with both organizational policies and federal regulations.

What are the goals for the position?

My goals in this position include improving the efficiency and effectiveness of the grant management processes, ensuring that grant funds are used effectively to support the Institute’s mission, and fostering positive relationships with grantees. I also aim to streamline reporting procedures and enhance the overall impact of the grants administered.

What do you like about working at the Institute for the Advancement of Minority Health?

Mya Hayes

I appreciate working at the Institute because of its commitment to addressing health disparities and advancing the well-being of minority communities. In addition, I value the opportunity to contribute to meaningful projects that have a tangible impact on public health and to collaborate with a dedicated team that shares your passion for equity and social justice.

Degree (s) and Alma Mater: Bachelor of Science, Business Administration, Xavier University of Louisiana.

Organization Membership/Certifications

Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated®, National Council of Negro Women, and National Association for the Advancement of Colored People

Hobbies/Passions

Bible study, working out, painting, and photography

Little Known Fun Fact: I enjoy giving back to my community by supporting animal shelters and community gardens.

Spotlight New Employee

Program Specialist, Maternal and Child Health

What are your job duties? I promote and educate the communities in the MS Delta and Central MS on our Maternal and Child Health (MCH) Programs. I help recruit pregnant women who meet the criteria to take advantage of the following programs: RMOMS (Rural Maternity and Obstetric Management Strategies), UMMC Remote Patient Monitoring Program, Healthy Families, and the Baby Depot.

What are the goals for the position?

To perform my job with passion, knowledge, expertise, and excellence and achieve all of the objectives for each MCH Program.

What do you like about working at the Institute for the Advancement of Minority Health?

I like the people and the opportunity to be creative to achieve our objectives. I enjoy educating the communities via outreach events and activities.

Degree (s) and Alma Mater:

Joyce RoundtreeMcCoy

Bachelor of Business Administration, Delta State University

Master in Community Counseling, Delta State University

Organization Membership/Certifications

Community Health Worker

Certified Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP) Lifestyle Coach

African American HIV University One-Year Program Graduate (Black AIDS Institute)

Hobbies/Passions

Spreading God’s word and love daily; promoting spiritual, professional, and personal success in adults and children; going to the movies, dancing (especially line dancing); and traveling for professional and personal reasons (especially with my husband Kenneth, family, and friends).

Little Known Fun Fact:

I am the 15th of 15 children, and I weighed ten pounds and eight ounces when I was born.

Spotlight New Employee

Program Manager Black Men’s Health Equity Program

What are your job duties? I direct activities in the area of health promotion for men I work to ensure the needs of vulnerable populations are considered. I provide evidencebased research to support program planning, development, and evaluation for men’s health

What are the goals for the position?

My goal is to effectively communicate, advocate, motivate, and educate Black (minority) men across the State of Mississippi about the health disparities within our communities.

What do you like about working at the Institute for the Advancement of Minority Health?

Markyel Pittman

I love working at the Institute because everyone here is treated like family. Even before my tenure began, I worked closely with the organization during its first two Black Men’s Conferences. I am elated about being a part of a great organization fighting for a cause bigger than itself!

Degree (s) and Alma Mater:

Associates of Arts- Pre-Law/Legal Studies, Holmes Community College

Bachelor’s of Science, Political Science, Jackson State University

Master of Arts, Political Science, Jackson State University

Ph.D., Educational Leadership (in process), Louisiana State University

Organization Membership/Certifications

Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., Mississippi NAACP Youth and College President, Jackson State University Alumni Association

Hobbies/Passions

Going to concerts, sightseeing/traveling, community service, going to church, and attending/watching football games.

Little Known Fun Fact:

I love Fried Catfish! Its a MS Delta thing.

Spotlight New Employee

Program Manager

Maternal and Child Health

What are your job duties? My responsibilities encompass a range of responsibilities aimed at promoting the health and well-being of mothers, infants, and children.

What are the goals for the position?

My goals are to reduce maternal mortality, enhance child survival, promote healthy pregnancies, improve access to care, support mental health, encourage breastfeeding, enhance nutrition, strengthen family support systems, advance health education, and conduct research and evaluations.

Degree (s) and Alma Mater: Bachelor of Arts, English, Jackson State University

Master of Education, Health Physical Education and Recreation, Jackson State University

Master of Public Health, Capella University

Organization Membership/Certifications

LaTasha Rice

Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, Alpha Beta Tau Omega Chapter; The Links, Incorporated, LeFleur’s Bluff (MS) Chapter; and Jackson State University National Alumni Association-Byram-Terry Chapter. Mississippi Alliance of Nonprofits and Philanthropy EIA (Excellence in Action) Certification.

Hobbies/Passions

Spending time with my family, watching movies, and traveling.

Little Known Fun Fact:

I am four- year Breast Cancer survivor, and I have three children (Michael-21, Adriana-14, and Addison-9).