2020 Annual Partners Guide: Live Healthy DeKalb Coalition by leaddekalb

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INTRODUCTION

elcome to the Live Healthy DeKalb coalitionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 2020 Annual Partners Guide! Live Healthy DeKalb is so excited to showcase organizations and community members that are working to protect, promote and improve the health of those who work, live and play in DeKalb County. Member-authored articles provide insight on community-level health challenges and what they are doing to combat them. The Partners Guide is an opportunity to share information related to community issues, partnerships, health services and disparities. The Live Healthy DeKalb coalition encourages you to get involved! For a list of organizations in DeKalb County that are working to improve health, please see the Member Directory on pages 55-57.

TA B L E O F CONTENTS

Member Organizations

About the Live Healthy DeKalb Coalition

Member Profile

Member Highlights

Amerigroup Community Care

Beulah Community Family Life Center

Beyond the Bell

The Bridge at Austin

BRIMI Foundation

DeKalb County Board of Health

DeKalb County Police Athletic League Plus

DeKalb County Public Library

CHRIS 180

Hopeful Change

I CARE

KirkwoodEdgewood Healthy Living Initiative

Lady Butterflies

RSA Deasil Advisors

Ruby A. Neeson Diabetes Awareness Foundation

Saint Philip Community Development Corporation

Diabetes Community Action Coalition

LVNGbook

University of Georgia Extension

Diabetes “You Can Win” Foundation

Mt. Zion AME Church

WellCare Health Plan

Emory University Rollins School of Public Health Region IV Public Health Training Center

My Girls

Pea Pod Nutrition and Lactation Support

Gang Breakers Organization

Peach State Health Plan

Center for Pan Asian Georgia Senior Community Services Medicare Patrol

Great Day Family Connections

Reaching Our Sisters Everywhere

Royal Adult Day Services

Women Watch Afrika

Zaria's Song

Member Directory

Improving Health through Partnerships

M E MBER O R G A N I Z AT I O N S A complete list of Live Healthy DeKalb member organizations.

A Culinary Twist

The Council on Alcohol and Drugs

Gang Breakers Organization

AID Atlanta

Decatur Cooperative Ministry

All of US Research Program/ Emory

Decatur Farmers Market

Georgia Refugee Health and Mental Health

Amani Women Center Amerigroup Community Care Aniz Antioch AME Church Beulah Community Family Life Center Beyond the Bell The Bridge at Austin BRIMI Foundation Center for Pan Asian Community Services Chair-A-Cise Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta: Strong4Life CHRIS 180 City of Clarkston CKL Marketing Services Community Farmers Market Community Unification Initiatives Compassionate Nurses Cool Moms Dance Too Cosmic Energy Fitness Studio

DeKalb County Board of Health DeKalb County Division of Family and Children Services DeKalb County Office of Youth Services DeKalb County Police Athletic League Plus DeKalb County Public Library

Georgia Senior Medicare Patrol Georgia State University Georgians Against Smoking Pollution Girl Trek Glamour Girl Fitness Great Day Family Connections

DeKalb County School District

Greater Smith Chapel AME Church

DeKalb Sheriff’s Office

GUIDE

Dennisha’s Village

Healing Hearts of Families USA Ministries

Diabetes Association of Atlanta Diabetes Community Action Coalition Diabetes "You Can Win" Foundation Emory University Rollins School of Public Health Region IV Public Health Training Center

Healing Together Solutions Hearts for Healing Honidu’s Caring Foundation & Empowerment Programs Hopeful Change I CARE

Emory University Urban Health Initiative

InclusiF Fitness & Cosmic Energy Fitness

First Saint Paul South DeKalb Community Development

International Community School

Full Circle Health Coaching

Kelley Chapel Empowerment Center

The Fulton-DeKalb Hospital Authority

Kids-Doc-On-Wheels

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Kirkwood-Edgewood Healthy Living Initiative Lady Butterflies Latch and Love Lactation Center LVNGbook Morehouse School of Medicine Preventative Research Center

Peach State Health Plan

Shae Kares

Profile by Sanford

SOCAEROBICS

Quantum Natural Health & Wellness

Stronghold Christian Church

C.O.I.N. Community Outreach Information Network Reaching Our Sisters Everywhere

SweatCute Tabitha’s House Take A Stand - A Financial Literacy Organization

My Girls

Resident Services Corporation

Mt. Zion AME Church

Results Kids Club

Natural Living Solutions

RMASTER

University of Georgia DeKalb County Cooperative Extension

Oasis for Life Wellness

Royal Adult Day Services

WellCare Health Plan

One Wellness Boutique

RSA Deasil Advisors

WillJenk Consulting Services

One Wellness Project

Ruby A. Neeson Diabetes Awareness Foundation

Women Watch Afrika

Optimal Health Beyond Pea Pod Nutrition and Lactation Support

Sagittal Soul Health & Fitness

Turner Monumental AME Church

Zaria’s Song

Saint Philip Community Development Corporation

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ABOUT THE L I V E H E A LT H Y DEKALB COALITION The Live Healthy DeKalb coalition is a group of local organizations and residents working to create a healthier DeKalb County. Live Healthy DeKalb (LHD) has been active since 2005, after the merger of two similar coalitions. It offers training, education and technical support through a network of community partners and volunteers.

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Mission The mission of LHD is to build a community network through collaborations and partnerships and to improve the health of those who live, work and play in DeKalb County, Georgia. Goals The goals of LHD are: • To improve the overall status of health for those who live, work and play in DeKalb County. • To increase knowledge of community issues. • To expand partnerships in the community. • To reduce health disparities and increase the accessibility of health services. Who We Are LHD is a group of diverse agencies and residents that represent a variety of segments in DeKalb County. Members include: • County agencies and cities, such as the City of Clarkston. • Nonprofit and voluntary groups, such as the Center for Pan Asian Community Services and Georgians Against Smoking Pollution. • Entities such as hospitals, insurance companies, universities and outpatient health care providers.

What We Do The LHD:  Hosts meetings to increase the accessibility of health services by networking and sharing information to reduce health disparities.  Creates a presence in the community by providing awareness, outreach and education.  Stays current on issues and resources in our community.  Promotes and supports member agencies’ activities.  Provides professional development workshops. Member Benefits and Expectations The benefits of being an LHD member are:  Networking and collaborating with fellow members.  Sharing information and learning about members’ events and activities.  Having access to DeKalb County data.  Having access to fellow coalition members to help with community events.  Having professional development training opportunities.  Receiving coalition members’ in-kind contributions of time, materials and meeting space. An individual who is an LHD member is expected to:  Participate in coalition meetings and activities. An organization that is an LHD member is expected to:  Appoint a representative to participate in coalition meetings and activities.  Authorize their representative to make decisions on their behalf, except for decisions that require input from their leadership.  Keep the coalition informed of their organization’s activities.  Share information on fellow members’ activities, events, reports and surveys within their organization and professional network and with their clients and the community.

Accomplishments 2019: Hosted the first annual Live Healthy DeKalb coalition conference. Created the LHD executive committee, including co-chairs.

2019: Assisted the Board of Health in conducting a community health assessment using the Mobilization for Action through Planning and Partnerships process developed by the National Association of County and City Health Officials. Assembled working groups to conduct assessments, facilitate data collection and review initial report drafts. 2018: Published the first Live Healthy DeKalb Annual Partners Guide. Hosted 4 capacity-building trainings for coalition members. Following the training, one member organization was awarded a $10,000 grant after using skills learned from the workshops. 2017: Worked with the DeKalb County Board of Health to formalize the 2018 Mobilizing for Action through Planning and Partnerships process. 2015-2016: Worked with the Board of Health to apply for accreditation from the Public Health Accreditation Board. Accreditation was granted. 2014: Conducted a series of community health education presentations and participated in a campaign to raise awareness about smoking and e-cigarettes. 2013: Assisted the Board of Health in launching a recycling initiative. 2012: Co-sponsored the DeKalb County School District's Healthy Schools Award to recognize programs and policies that promote a healthy school environment. 2010: Partnered with the Safe Routes to School program to increase the number and frequency of children walking or biking to school. 2009: Collaborated with the then-Georgia Department of Human Resources’ Health Promotion Initiative to develop the Live Healthy in Faith toolkit. 2008-2009: Played a key role in implementing the tobacco-free school policies passed in the City of Decatur and DeKalb County school systems. 2007: Was instrumental in the passing of a clean indoor air ordinance by the DeKalb County Board of Commissioners. 2006: Assisted several worksites in adopting wellness policies and implementing environmental strategies. 2005: Worked with the Board of Health to pilot the Mobilizing for Action through Planning and Partnerships process. The Board of Health was one of the first local public health agencies in the country to pilot this model.

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MEMBER PROFILE If you are interested in becoming a member of the Live Healthy DeKalb coalition, please complete the profile and email it to LiveHealthyDeKalb@gmail.com

Name: _____________________________________________________________________________________________ Title (if applicable): ___________________________________________________________________________________ Organization (if applicable): ____________________________________________________________________________ Address: ____________________________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________________ City:

____________________________ State: __________

ZIP:_______________________________

Telephone: _____________________________________________________________________________________ Email:

_____________________________________________________________________________________

Website (if applicable):

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Membership type:_________ Individual _________ Organization Areas of interest: _________

Nutrition

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Physical activity

_________ Health equity _________ Recycling/Go Green

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Tobacco use prevention

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Chronic disease

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Injury and violence prevention

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Menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s health

_________ Epidemiology _________ Health promotion _________ Other: _______________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________

I am committed to being an active member of the Live Healthy DeKalb coalition. I am committed to the mission, goals, objectives and strategies that have been and/or will be decided by the coalition. I am committed to planning and collaborating, and understand that these processes take time. I agree to acknowledge the coalition membersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; contributions and expectations. Name (print):

______________________________________________________________________________________

Signature: _____________________________________________________________________________________ Date:

____________________________________________________________________________________

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MEMBER HIGHLIGHTS Articles submited by coalition members.

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AMERIGROUP COMMUNITY CARE

merigroup Community Care helps improve health care access and quality for more than 375,000 Georgians by developing innovative care management programs and services that improve accessibility to comprehensive, integrated and patient-centered health care. The Amerigroup Community Care health plans are offered by Amerigroup Georgia.

Through the Amerigroup Foundation, the company’s philanthropic arm, Amerigroup also funds initiatives that address the issues identified through its Healthy Generations program: heart health, diabetes and cancer prevention, healthy maternal practices, active lifestyles and mental health. The foundation offers two funding options: •

Amerigroup Georgia provides a variety of benefits and resources for members and communities, which are designed to promote and sustain a healthy lifestyle. These programs include::

Program grants support ongoing community health programs with proven and measurable outcomes. Generally, the grant term is one year.

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Community sponsorships support fundraising events and small-scale programs.

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Case management.

For more information on:

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Dental and vision services.

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Discounts at local stores and restaurants.

Amerigroup Community Care, visit www.myamerigroup.com/ga/georgiahome.html or call 1(800) 600-4441.

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Free 24-hour nurse helpline.

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Free Boys & Girls Clubs memberships for children ages 6 to 18.

The Amerigroup Foundation, visit www.anthemcorporateresponsibility. com/anthem-foundation.

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Free internet access.

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Free over-the-counter medicine.

Healthy Generations, visit www.anthemcorporateresponsibility. com/healthy-generations.

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Free round-trip rides to doctor visits.

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Free weight-management program for ages 10 and up.

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Pest control.

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Taking Care of Baby and Me® program.

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BEULAH COMMUNITY FA M I LY L I F E C E N T E R

he Beulah Community Family Life Center is a ministry of the Beulah Baptist Church, pastored by Reverend Jerry D. Black. It is the church’s belief that through active engagement, we can work together to become stronger and make the community that we live in better. This community-wide effort creates a positive, lasting impact that brings neighborhoods, families and individuals closer together. For this reason, the center offers programs and services to benefit the mind, body and spirit of our members, guests and community. The center accomplishes this through collaborations with community members and corporate partners. The Beulah Community Family Life Center offers fitness activities and open gym times to the public through a partnership with the DeKalb County Board of Health. A “shared-use agreement” enables the congregation to share its programs and facilities with the community. This gives residents an opportunity to maintain active, healthy lifestyles at little or no cost. Community members benefit from activities such as group exercise, fitness-to-music, Zumba,

basketball, water aerobics and weight training. Or, they can work out at their own pace using the stateof-the-art cardio equipment. The center also hosts health-related educational sessions. This partnership was created through the Board of Health’s Local Efforts towards Addressing Disparities in DeKalb initiative, known as “LEAD DeKalb.” The initiative is funded by a Racial and Ethnic Approaches to Community Health (REACH) grant from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. In Year 1 of the partnership (September 2018August 2019), a total of 175 people ages 26 and older joined through the center’s shared-use program called “Outreach Membership.” In addition, the center’s youth participation (ages 14 to 25) increased by 80%; this group mainly used the gymnasium for group basketball play. For more information, visit www.beulahbaptist.org/flc or call (678) 553-6030.

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B E YO N D T H E B E L L

eyond the Bell is a nonprofit organization whose goal is to prevent the onset of alcohol, marijuana and tobacco use among individuals between the ages of 9 and 20.

Beyond the Bell works alongside the Georgia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities and the U.S. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration to provide tools and strategies to train, educate and support youth and families in the prevention of alcohol, marijuana and tobacco use and abuse. Beyond the Bell has offices in Chatham, DeKalb, Rockdale and Upson counties. The organization uses several strategies, including Botvin LifeSkills Training, positive social norms campaigns, the Community Trials Intervention to Reduce High-Risk Drinking and the Ask, Advise and Refer tobacco use prevention strategy. While the primary focus is youth, Beyond the Bell also serves parents and guardians, often providing data and information regarding underage substance use. Botvin LifeSkills Training is an evidence-based substance abuse and violence prevention program. It strengthens life skills, such as communication and negotiation, to enable students to say â&#x20AC;&#x153;noâ&#x20AC;? to under-

age alcohol, marijuana, cigarette and e-cigarette use. It also provides tools to help parents communicate about their zero tolerance for these behaviors and to recognize the signs of use and abuse. The organization partners with middle and high schools and youth-serving organizations to provide this training to youth. It also partners with juvenile court systems to provide the training to parents and guardians. Beyond the Bell works with the following: businesses; faith groups; fraternal organizations; parent groups; media; schools; law enforcement; youth-serving organizations; health care agencies; state, local and tribal governmental agencies; and civic and volunteer groups. Trained, skilled facilitators are available to provide training to these types of organizations. Beyond the Bellâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Community Prevention Alliance Workgroup and Coalition work closely to garner community buy-in and to develop strategies for assessment, planning, implementation, evaluation, capacity-building and sustainability. Both groups welcome new members. For more information, email www.beyondthebell@comcast.net or call (770) 285-6037.

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T H E B R I D G E AT A U S T I N

he Bridge at Austin was organized in December 2001 and has served as a model for senior enrichment in south DeKalb County. With only seven seniors enrolled in 2002, the program has grown to an average of 200 participants a year. Having reached thousands of seniors and families in the community over the years, The Bridge is a focal point for quality education, health and wellness programs and family resources. The Bridge at Austin aligns its mission with a focus on serving, strengthening and mobilizing metro Atlanta. It offers structured health and educational programs and activities for the development of youth and older adults. Since 2018, The Bridge has partnered with the DeKalb County Board of Health to open its facility to the public via a Racial and Ethnic Approaches to Community Health (REACH) grant from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. A “shared-use agreement” enables the congregation to share its facility and programs with the community.

Through this agreement, The Bridge at Austin offers various levels of health and wellness classes that involve fitness, nutrition and brain-based activities. Fitness classes include: •

Abs.

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Boot camp.

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Strength building.

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Tai chi.

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Yoga.

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Zumba.

A participant reports: “I am a cancer survivor for over 10 years. I have participated in Healthy Cooking nutrition classes, fitness classes and organic gardening. I use the skills learned in these classes in my home, with friends and extended family. Each year, I share my testimony during the Think Pink cancer survivors’ luncheon.” For more information, visit www.thebridgeataustin.org or call (404) 534-3322.

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B R I M I F O U N DAT I O N

he Beauty Resides in My Image (BRIMI) Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that encourages young women to identify beauty in their own image. BRIMI understands that mental, physical and emotional wellness are vital to self-awareness, self-confidence and selfesteem. Its programs cultivate overall wellness and growth, enabling those it connects with to see the beauty that resides within them. The Beauty Resides in My Image movement encourages each person to look in the mirror and see their beauty. Too often individuals choose to see themselves with flaws, instead of embracing the beautiful uniqueness of their features. By acknowledging the beauty within one’s own image and not comparing one’s image to others, they can start seeing themselves as beautiful. Participants are honest in sharing their feelings about self-doubt. This gives the organization a full understanding of their needs and the programming that might help them through the most influential

time in their lives. Many are struggling with low self-esteem and self-confidence, depression, anxiety and, sadly, even suicidal thoughts. This is becoming more and more of the norm due to social media and society’s outdated myths about beauty and popularity. The BRIMI Foundation’s programs include: B-Fit, Mirror It’s ME, Beauty Series and B-Vocal. The foundation’s newest program is B-Ambassador. It is recruiting girls ages 8 to 18 for this free program to help them identify and celebrate who they are. This is a 9-month program where a girl must complete 100 credit hours to graduate as a BRIMI Ambassador. Activities include team building, self-esteem building, life coaching, peer-to-peer meetings, fitness sessions, volunteer opportunities and other fun activities. For more information, visit www.mybrimiinc.org or call (404) 334-7144.

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C E N T E R F O R PA N A S I A N COMMUNITY SERVICES

he Center for Pan Asian Community Services is a private, nonprofit organization. Founded on the belief that “people need people,” it is the oldest and largest organization in the southeastern U.S. to focus on issues and concerns of Asian Americans, especially women, children and lowincome families. The center’s mission is to promote self-sufficiency and equity for immigrants, refugees and the underprivileged through comprehensive health and social services, capacity building and advocacy. The agency provides services through 12 departments, including social services, transportation, housing, legal and education. Some of these are featured below. Health programs strive to reduce health inequities in Asian/Pacific Islander communities through targeted health education, promotion and outreach services. The programs include: •

Affordable Care Act assistance.

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Asian breast care.

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Hepatitis B education, outreach and screening.

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HIV testing and prevention.

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Substance abuse prevention.

The Georgia Team Empowerment Coalition harnesses the cultural and linguistic skills necessary to engage and empower Asian/Pacific Islander and Latino communities to prevent and reduce the use of alcohol, tobacco and other substances among youth. The Alcohol and Substance Abuse Prevention Project focuses on reducing the abuse of alcohol and other substances in Asian/Pacific Islander and Latino communities. The project provides education and prevention strategies (such as parent workshops, compliance checks and healthy habits curriculums) to immigrants and refugees in Clarkston, Doraville and Chamblee.

The HIV Testing, Prevention and Counseling Program uses collaboration, outreach, social marketing and condom distribution to prevent HIV transmission and infection among high-risk individuals. Free and confidential HIV screenings are provided at the agency’s main office and outreach sites in metro Atlanta. The Pan Asian Women’s Empowerment and Resources Program offers comprehensive, linguistically appropriate services to help Asian/Pacific Islander women and their families live violence-free. The program: (1) uses community mobilization, education and outreach to create an environment where domestic violence is not acceptable; (2) provides direct services that are linguistically and culturally appropriate for survivors; and (3) collaborates with other organizations and individuals to end violence. The Senior Wellness Program provides culturally sensitive recreational activities and culturally accurate congregate meal programs to older adults from underserved and limited English proficient ethnic communities. Activities include group exercises, line dancing, singing classes, Asian barrel drum classes, and arts and crafts. There are programs for Burmese, Korean, Chinese and Bhutanese seniors. The Cosmo Health Center is a federally qualified health center that provides care for medically underserved communities. It offers primary care, pediatric, OB-GYN, behavioral, dental and immigration screening services, regardless of ability to pay. Cosmo facilitates access to quality health and wellness care through services such as transportation to appointments and interpretation by health navigators. Interpretation and translation services are available to other organizations. The staff speaks almost 20 languages, including Burmese, Chinese, Korean, Nepali, Spanish and Vietnamese. For more information, visit www.cpacs.org or call (770) 936-0969.

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CHRIS 180

HRIS 180’s mission is to heal children, strengthen families and build community. “CHRIS” stands for the agency’s core values: Creativity, Honor, Respect, Integrity and Safety.

CHRIS 180 helps children, adults and families who have experienced trauma to change the direction of their lives to become more productive and selfsufficient. This is accomplished through offering mental health counseling, training and real-world skill building; creating safe environments and providing safe housing.

The Summit Trail Apartment Community helps adults ages 17 to 24 with stable housing. Supervised living is provided to young adults who are homeless, parenting or leaving the juvenile justice or mental health system. The Outreach and Community Housing team helps young adults and families who are experiencing homelessness or who are at risk of homelessness become stable and self-sufficient through housing assistance and support, including coordinated entry, rapid re-housing and emergency assistance.

Behavioral health services include:

The Foster Care and Adoption program recruits, prepares and supports families who will foster and/ or adopt children to ensure stable homes. The program educates prospective families about the needs of children adopted through the foster care system, giving them the unique parenting skills needed to adopt successfully. The supports include:

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Community support services.

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24-hour on-call service.

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Comprehensive assessments.

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Access to counseling services.

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Crisis intervention.

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One-to-one support from a foster care specialist.

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Individual, group and family therapy.

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Support groups and classes.

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Medication management.

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Training for prospective families.

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Trauma assessments.

For more information, visit www.chris180.org or call (404) 486-9034.

The CHRIS Counseling Center increases clients’ capacity to manage life stressors and mental health concerns, build coping skills and improve communication and ability to function.

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D E KA L B CO U N TY B OA R D O F H E A LT H

ounded in 1921 and based in Decatur, the DeKalb County Board of Health provides clinical care, outreach and case management at five health centers and strives to build healthy communities through population-based assessment, education and prevention efforts. The Board of Health’s vision is to promote, protect and improve the health of the people who live, work and play in the county. Its mission is to foster wellness through care, education and example; to empower communities to develop and implement wellness strategies; to collaborate with community partners to provide quality, affordable and culturally competent health care and education; to improve the status of health through policy, systems and environmental changes; and to build and maintain a committed and well-trained workforce that provides superior customer service. The Board of Health’s services include: •

Adult Health: breast and cervical cancer screening, dental health, family planning, immunizations, minor care services, physicals, pregnancy testing, refugee health, travel medicine, and sexually transmitted disease (STD), HIV and tuberculosis (TB) education, screening, diagnosis, treatment and control.

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Certificates for births and deaths in Georgia.

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Child Health: adolescent health and youth development, Babies Can’t Wait, Children 1st,

Children’s Medical Services, dental health, foster care physicals, health checks, hearing and vision screenings, immunizations, minor care services and sports physicals. •

Community engagement: volunteer opportunities, including opportunities in emergency preparedness (in the Medical Reserve Corps).

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Community health reports.

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Emergency Preparedness: public health response and community awareness, preparedness and training.

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Environmental Health: lead poisoning prevention, mosquito control, radon testing, and permits for and inspections of restaurants, septic tanks, swimming pools and spas, body crafting studios and artists, and hotels and motel.

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Health promotion: community health education and prevention of chronic diseases, injuries and tobacco use.

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Maternal and child health: Mothers Offering Resources and Education, Right from the Start Medicaid and the Women, Infants and Children (WIC) nutrition program.

For more information, visit www.dekalbhealth.net or call (404) 294-3700.

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DEKALB COUNTY P O L I C E AT H L E T I C L E A G U E P LU S

hrough law enforcement outreach, the DeKalb County Police Athletic League (PAL) Plus provides safe and healthy activities for young people and educates them about the roles of law enforcement. It is a charitable, not-for-profit organization with the mission to positively impact youth, grooming them to become tomorrow’s active community members and leaders. The DeKalb league is a chapter of the National Police Athletic/ Activities Leagues.

youth in achieving their success. Sports programs include:

PAL Plus provides a safe haven for youth to grow, with a goal of “inspiring success.”

The PAL Plus educational programs include:

Through myriad community partnerships, the DeKalb County PAL Plus program engages with at-risk youth in the community. With a dedication to collaboration and authentic visibility in DeKalb County schools, the unit is readily able to identify students in need and offers several programs that provide outlets for overall enhancement, engagement and education. Studies have proven that young people who respect law enforcement officers on the ballfield, in the gym and in the classroom will likely respect laws in the community, creating a focus on improving tomorrow’s neighborhoods. PAL Plus uses athletic and recreational activities to enhance trust and understanding between today’s youth and officers. Officers engage to support our

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Baseball. Basketball Cheerleading. Dance. Football. Golf. Softball. Track and field.

Drive to Survive. Etiquette classes. Gentlemen Exemplifying Excellent Strength/ Girls Exemplifying Magnificent Strength. Junior Police Academy. Tutoring.

The PAL Plus mentoring program provides healthy relationships with supervision and life-changing influence from beloved law enforcement officers. The program expands public awareness about the role of the police officer and reinforces the values and attitudes instilled in the youth by their parents, families and communities. For more information, visit www.dekalbcountypalplus.org or call (770) 724-7479.

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DEKALB COUNTY PUBLIC LIBRARY

he DeKalb County Public Library’s mission is to enlighten and enrich the people of DeKalb County by providing responsive, dynamic services that meet the changing informational, educational and recreational needs of a diverse population. The library system is comprised of 23 branches and was named the 2018 Georgia Public Library of the Year by the Georgia Public Library Service. The library offers a variety of health and wellness programs each month. Exercise opportunities include: • Line dancing • Salsa classes • Senior activities • Yoga • Zumba classes Wellness programs include: • Adult coloring sessions • Cooking classes • CPR training

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Diabetes support groups Disability fairs Keto diet workshops Lupus support groups Paint nights Relief from seasonal allergies classes Vegan lifestyle classes

Recreational activities include: • Arts and crafts • Author talks • Knitting and crocheting classes • Movie screenings • Musical performances • Writing groups For more information, visit www.dekalblibrary.org/ or call (404) 508-7190.

DIABETES COMMUNITY ACTION COALITION

he Diabetes Community Action Coalition is a diverse group of community members, health advocates, public health professionals, health care providers and social service organizations that are working together to reduce the health and financial burdens of undiagnosed and poorly controlled diabetes. The health burden includes, for example, disability in the forms of vision loss, kidney failure and foot/leg amputations. The Diabetes Community Action Coalition serves those living with, at risk for or affected by diabetes and is the metro Atlanta chapter of the Georgia Diabetes Coalition. Its community outreach program is called DiabetesHelpATL and provides resources and support to live well with diabetes and related chronic health conditions. DiabetesHelpATL seeks to: •

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Connect people to affordable medical care to prevent and treat diabetes.

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Connect clinical providers with community services.

DiabetesHelpATL educates people on how to: •

Recognize and address one’s personal risk factors for type 2 diabetes.

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Manage the diabetes ABCs (A1C, blood pressure and cholesterol) and prevent hypoglycemia (low blood sugar).

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Save money on prescription medications.

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Make the transition to Medicare.

For more information, visit www.diabeteshelpatl.org or call (740) 807-1054.

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D I A B E T E S “ YO U C A N W I N ” F O U N DAT I O N

he Diabetes “You Can Win” Foundation is a nonprofit organization serving the metro Atlanta area. It was formed to meet the needs of families and individuals who have diabetes or who are at risk of developing diabetes. Its mission is to bring comprehensive diabetes education, delivered by clinicians, to underserved communities and the uninsured. Most people who live in underserved areas or who are uninsured do not have access to comprehensive diabetes education with certified diabetes care and education specialists and other clinicians. Comprehensive patient training addresses individualized medication management and meal planning. This approach can make an impact and start to change outcomes in this population. Education goes beyond a single handout. When people know better, they will do better. In recent years, Diabetes “You Can Win” has held an annual community event in conjunction with the American Diabetes Association’s Diabetes Alert Day. This national awareness campaign encourages individuals to take a simple written test to see if they are at risk for diabetes. On Alert Day, the organization and its partners host a community event that provides free blood sugar and blood pressure screenings and health and nutrition education.

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The Diabetes “You Can Win” staff and volunteers are committed to service. They offer the following: • • • • • • • • •

Assistance with diabetes medication. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s National Diabetes Prevention Program. Diabetes and nutrition classes. Diabetes supplies. Eyeglasses and eye exams. Monthly support groups. Speakers for community events. “You Can Win” Walking Club. “You Can Win” Let’s Dance event.

Highlights in 2019 include: •

Launching the first college chapter at the University of West Georgia to provide the CDC’s diabetes prevention program and to support those with diabetes.

•

Hosting the first annual Gwinnett Walks for Diabetes “You Can Win.”

•

Participating in 60 community events and serving over 500 people; these are the highest annual numbers to date.

For more information, visit diabetesyoucanwin.org or call (404) 396-4417.

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EMORY UNIVERSITY ROLLINS SCHOOL OF PUBLIC HEALTH REGION IV PUBLIC HEALTH TRAINING CENTER

he Region IV Public Health Training Center is one of ten regional training centers in the Public Health Learning Network. The center consists of a central office, located at the Rollins School of Public Health at Emory University, and six partner institutions (known as “local performance sites”). Its assigned content area is infectious disease and its geographic area is Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina and Tennessee. The center provides public health workforce training, faculty and student collaborative projects, and student field placements and training based on the Council on Linkages’ Core Competencies for Public Health Professionals.

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The center’s Pathways to Practice Scholars field placement program provides current public health students the opportunity to gain practical experience working with seasoned public health practitioners (mentors) in underserved communities or populations. Most of the center’s competency-based training for public health professionals is free and may offer continuing professional education credits. This training includes webinars (live and on demand), interactive lectures (including satellite, archived and in person) and skill-based training (virtual and in person). For more information, go to www.r4phtc.org.

G A N G B R E A K E R S O R G A N I Z AT I O N

he Gang Breakers Organization seeks to provide metro Atlanta youth with the tools, resources and support needed to reach their potential. Founded in 2012, the Gang Breakers Organization strivesÂ to create a vibrant and compassionate neighborhood where the organization is seen as an essential leader in making our community a worldclass place to live and raise a family. The goal is to prepare youth to become responsible, actively engaged global citizens and leaders. The organization stands for pride, integrity and commitment.

The Gang Breakers Organization works to transform the communityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s troubled youth by providing a caring, inclusive learning environment that promotes best efforts, reinforces personal respect and empowers positive change. Services include an after-school program, gang prevention and intervention, and mentoring and tutoring. Programs serve youth ages 8 to 17 years of age. Graduates assist and mentor current participants. For more information, email gangbreakersorganization@gmail.com or call (404) 916-4538.

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GEORGIA SENIOR M E D I C A R E PAT R O L

ince 1997, the U.S. Administration on Aging has funded Senior Medicare Patrol programs in all 50 states and U.S. territories. The programs recruit and train retired professionals to teach Medicare beneficiaries how to recognize and report possible health care fraud in the Medicare and Medicaid systems. They also work to resolve beneficiary complaints of potential fraud, waste and abuse. Working alongside state and national fraud control and consumer protection entities, the programs have been instrumental in returning millions of dollars to the Medicare system. The entities include Medicare contractors, state Medicaid fraud control units, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services and the U.S. Office of Inspector General. The Georgia Senior Medicare Patrol’s message to beneficiaries is to protect, detect and report.

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This includes: •

Protect your Medicare benefits and the Medicare system from dishonest health care providers by protecting your Medicare number. Do not give it out to people you don’t know or over the phone. Remember that your Medicare card number can be more valuable than any credit card if the person who gets your number uses it to bill Medicare for services and products you have not received or did not want.

•

Say “no” to offers of free medical equipment. Medical equipment should always be prescribed by your personal physician and not by someone over the phone.

•

Report any suspicious activity. You could be uncovering a major scam and saving others from being victimized.

For more information, visit StopMedicareFraud.org or call 1 (877) 272-8720.

G R E AT DAY FA M I LY C O N N E C T I O N S

reat Day Family Connections is a nonprofit, family-enrichment organization that provides events, activities and educational workshops for all families, especially those with children who are deaf or hard of hearing. The staff believes that families should be engaged in the academic, emotional and social development of their children. The agency does not provide childcare or programs that separate children from the care of their parents or guardians. The programs include: •

Exposures: A series of monthly activities that involves community businesses, organizations and individuals who provide fun, educational presentations.

•

Family Ties: An educational program that promotes parents as the first and most important teachers in the life of a child. This ten-session program teaches future, new and experienced parents the importance of giving their children an educational and social head start.

•

Language is an Art: A ten-week language enrichment and communication program. It helps individuals learn English or improve their skills in speaking English through various ways, such as music, movies, sports and shopping.

•

Learning Circles: An opportunity for families and community members to come together as collaborative teachers. The program engages the entire family, including children. Topics include teaching children to be financially savvy, teaching a baby to communicate before he or she begins to talk and becoming a business owner.

•

Silent Towne: A fundraiser that benefits the Deaf Space Camp at the U.S. Space & Rocket Center in Huntsville, Ala. The goal is to bridge the communication gaps among individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing or who speak foreign languages. There is absolutely no talking by participants or vendors.

For more information, visit greatdayconnections.org or call (770) 560-3142.

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HOPEFUL CHANGE

opeful Change is an organization that lives by the proverb “Each one, teach one.” It is community-based and believes in grassroots efforts to foster hope and create change through mentoring, enrichment, educational programs, camps and community outreach. Hopeful Change’s mission is to provide youth with services that encourage and support healthy growth and development. It recognizes the key to helping each youth attain a productive and rewarding life is to empower them with the skills, knowledge and motivation necessary to help him/herself. The vision is for all youth to have the freedom to grow and evolve in a community that recognizes and supports the importance of individuality. The goal is to unlock the potential that resides in each child to help him or her become a self-sufficient, contributing adult who has the skills to navigate life’s challenges. Hopeful Change has over 20 years of professional training and experience, which has provided vast knowledge and experience in serving all socioeconomic statuses, including disadvantaged youth. The organization works with youth from schools, the Georgia Department of Juvenile Justice, DeKalb County Department of Family and Children Services, mental health agencies, YMCAs and Boys

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& Girls Clubs of America. It believes that youth are the answer to building better tomorrows today. Understanding and knowing that children are the key to the future allows us to share through the one commonality we all have: the ability to experience love and hope. Hopeful Change seeks to maximize the holistic integration of mind, body and spirit. The hope is that, with assistance, one will be able to create a new-found respect for their wellness and well-being, as they are able to incorporate learned strategies to improve daily functioning. Every problem has a solution. Thanks to Hopeful Change’s years of experience, it is equipped to help find solutions to problems, whether big or small. Services include: • • • •

Counseling/therapy. Educational and enrichment programs. Mentoring. Sports and youth camps.

For more information, visit hope2change.com or call (678) 521-0650.

I CARE

nterfaith Companion and Ride Express (I CARE) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that offers free transportation to medical appointments to low-income, DeKalb County seniors. The agency enhances and promotes the quality of life, independence and dignity of those it serves. Services are available to residents who need more assistance than public transportation can provide. All drivers are volunteers. Not only do they provide transportation, they provide caring companionship and door-to-door service. A task force of DeKalb County residents founded I CARE in 1998 to offer affordable transportation for senior citizens. However, according to a 2018 Georgia Health Policy Center report, transportation services are still a major unmet need for older adults.1

To qualify, an individual must be: • • • • •

55 years of age or older. A DeKalb County resident. Able to walk, even if with assistance. Unable to use other transportation services for medical or financial reasons. Able to provide seven days’ notice prior to the scheduled appointment.

For more information, visit icareseniors.org or call (404) 377-2273. https://aging.georgia.gov/sites/aging.georgia.gov/ files/At%20a%20Crossroads%20Transportation%20 Report%2011.2018.pdf 1

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KIRKWOOD-EDGEWOOD H E A LT H Y L I V I N G I N I T I AT I V E

hrough the Kirkwood-Edgewood Healthy Living Initiative, Turner Monumental AME Church and Greater Smith Chapel AME Church share their fitness facilities with the community. Turner Monumental AME offers cardio-aerobic classes and Greater Smith Chapel AME offers low-impact Zumba classes. The classes are appropriate for all fitness levels and ages. Participants have ranged from 3 to 81 years old. The initiative also offers community roundtables on enhancing mental health. Trained clinicians offer insight on recognizing mental illness and reducing stigma. In addition to Zumba classes, Greater Smith Chapel AME hosts a plant-based cooking class. At church

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events, where fried foods are the norm, the goal is to shift to using low salt and high fiber recipes to reduce the risk for heart disease. Since 2018, the Kirkwood-Edgewood Healthy Living Initiative has partnered with the DeKalb County Board of Health to open the churches’ facilities to the public through a Racial and Ethnic Approaches to Community Health (REACH) grant from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. For more information, call: •

Turner Monumental AME Church at (404) 378-5970.

•

Greater Smith Chapel AME Church at (404) 963-5215.

L A DY B U T T E R F L I E S

ady Butterflies is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization providing social support services to individuals and families residing in the City of Atlanta and in Clayton, DeKalb, Fulton, Gwinnett, Newton and Rockdale counties.

intimidating than other classes by incorporating interactive activities and conversations that promote positive body image. Participants are encouraged to not feel pressure to “fit in” and to love their body with their own healthy standards! Each participant receives a workbook.

Youth are at an increasing risk to develop body image issues that can impact self-esteem and lead to eating disorders.

Other workshops include:

A core workshop to address these issues is Fitness Fun, a six-week positive body fitness class that is open to males and females in 6th through 12th grades. The purpose is to make fitness more inclusive, less obsessed with image and less

• • •

Education. Health and wellness. Job readiness.

For more information, visit ladybutterflies.org or call (678) 902-5239.

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LV N G B O O K

VNGbook helps people who want to prevent or manage chronic disease to eat for better health and create lasting lifestyle change. It offers customizable, print-ondemand cookbooks that make it easy to change eating habits, with supportive habit-change guides to help people create healthy lifestyles that last. By combining nutrition, good food, behavioral science, culture and technology, LVNGbook helps people eat for better health. When care providers tell patients to change the way they eat to prevent or manage a chronic condition, many receive only verbal advice or a list of foods to eat or avoid. Changing one’s lifestyle and diet from a list is overwhelming for a patient—a list doesn’t consider their family life and traditions, culture or lifestyle. LVNGbook offers an alternative that helps people make a dietary lifestyle change that is culturally appropriate and family-friendly and that builds positive associations to encourage healthy eating for a lifetime. Instead of figuring out how to incorporate a list of foods into a lifestyle, customers can create their own personalized cookbooks. Every LVNGbook recipe is developed and tested by culinary professionals and approved by a registered dietitian. Each recipe is easy to make, family-friendly and takes no more than 30 minutes of hands-on time. LVNGbook specializes in creating healthy versions of recipes for a variety of cultural traditions. Also, every recipe meets or exceeds the guidelines of the American Heart Association’s Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (“DASH”) diet. (LVNGbook will soon offer recipes for pre-diabetes,

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diabetes and other conditions.) In addition, each recipe has a Quick Response (QR) code, so a smart phone QR reader can scan it for the list of ingredients. The user can send the list to Instacart, AmazonFresh, WalMart Grocery or a nearby grocery store for delivery or pickup. Users visit LVNGbook’s website to create their own cookbook. A user creates a profile indicating favorite cuisines, food allergies, religious and dietary considerations, and cooking style. Then the site shows recipes that match the profile and the user chooses recipes to create a personalized cookbook. They can even choose a cover image and put their name in the title. The user immediately receives a downloadable copy of their cookbook and soon receives a print copy in the mail. LVNGbook also offers a habit-change guide and journal developed by a behavioral scientist. Through positive association and practical steps, LVNGbook helps customers create the healthy lifestyles they want. Modified books and bulk orders are available for community health organizations, health coaches, dietitians, trainers and care providers. LVNGbook also licenses content to health and wellness organizations for use in e-newsletters, websites, apps and elsewhere. For corporations and care providers, LVNGbook offers partnerships that allow employees and patients to customize their own books and work to improve their health outcomes. For more information, visit lvngbook.com or call (404) 410-0021. (Photo credit: LVNGbook)

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M T. Z I O N A M E C H U R C H

t. Zion AME Church has been a pillar in its community for 150 years. As times changed, it was apparent the church needed to grow and extend services to help members and nearby communities stay healthy and fit. With an aging congregation and neighborhood, the fitness ministry caters to many with diabetes, high blood pressure, obesity and other chronic diseases. The ministry sponsors aerobics classes and healthy lifestyle management seminars on a variety of subjects that can help people improve their overall health. There is no cost and one does not have to be a Mt. Zion member to participate. The Witness to Fitness Ministry provides a weekly aerobics class with a certified instructor. The instructor was determined to start a program to help others experience the benefits of exercise. This onehour aerobic workout is for all ages. The exercises are demonstrated at three levels so that attendees can participate on their level.

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The exercise and monthly health classes have shown great results for participants. One woman stated: â&#x20AC;&#x153;I always dreaded going to my annual physical because they would always check my weight. I was 310 pounds, and the doctor assured me that I could make a change. I signed up for the aerobics class at Mt. Zion and began to participate consistently. I have lost over 60 pounds participating in this class. The Witness to Fitness class has been an amazing experience.â&#x20AC;? Since 2018, Mt. Zion has partnered with the Board of Health to open its facility to the public through a Racial and Ethnic Approaches to Community Health (REACH) grant from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. For more information, visit mtzionamec.org or call (404) 428-3381.

MY GIRLS

y Girls helps middle and high school girls become emotionally and mentally healthy so that they can excel academically and beyond. It also hosts groups for women and parents.

•

My Girls offers the following programs for girls: •

•

Girl Talk: This weekly support group teaches healthy coping skills, stress management, anger management, conflict resolution, boundaries, effective communication, reflective listening, empathy and peer support. Discussion topics include mental health, bullying, suicide prevention, teen dating violence, self-image and risky behaviors. Selfie: This group focuses on boosting girls’ selfesteem, self-confidence, self-respect, self-love and positive self-image. It helps them know their worth, have pride, behave with dignity and demand respect, while developing self-control and self-awareness.

Whole: This health and wellness program focuses on whole (physical, spiritual and mental) health. It teaches girls how to make healthy choices, practice self-care, and prevent and/or lower risk factors for various health conditions. It includes education on nutrition and exercise.

My Girls also provides these programs for adults: •

My Sister Circle: This monthly group provides a safe haven for women to express themselves. The mission is to promote sisterhood, empower women and restore female relationships. It offers social activities and participation in various causes.

•

Parent Support Group: This monthly group is for parents and caregivers who have a child with a mental health condition or developmental disability. It provides emotional support, advocacy, awareness and education.

For more information, visit mygirlsinc.org or call (470) 207-3374.

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PEA POD NUTRITION AND L A C TAT I O N S U P P O R T

ea Pod Nutrition and Lactation Support is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to the nutritional health of Georgia families. The agency specializes in maternal health, pediatric nutrition and chronic disease prevention through medical nutrition therapy. Additionally, it offers familycentered lactation support and counseling. Pea Pod provides services regardless of income. It accepts all major private and public insurance plans and provides free care for qualifying families through the Georgia Families Program. Pea Pod Nutrition and Lactation Support’s mission is to empower families through evidence-based nutrition and lactation education, counseling and support to reduce the risk and prevalence of lifestylerelated chronic diseases. It was founded to decrease disparities in chronic disease prevention and management and strives to increase positive birth outcomes through education, outreach and support.

•

Provide every child with the same level of access to nutrition education, support and nourishing, healthy food.

•

Eradicate childhood obesity through early nutrition intervention programs that focus on the entire family.

•

Empower families to make the best possible nutrition- and lifestyle-related decisions.

Pea Pod offers: •

One-on-one and group nutrition counseling for children, adolescents, adults and families.

•

One-on-one breastfeeding education and counseling.

•

Group breastfeeding classes.

•

Management of lifestyle-related chronic diseases such as type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol and hypertension.

Pea Pod’s vision is to: •

Increase the rate of positive birth outcomes.

•

Cooking classes.

•

Create an environment for women across all socioeconomic, educational and ethnic backgrounds to initiate and sustain breastfeeding exclusively for six months and complementary through the first years of life.

•

School-based nutrition programming for prekindergarten through 5th grade.

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For more information, visit peapodnutrition.org or call (678) 607-6052.

P E A C H S TAT E H E A LT H P L A N each State Health Plan is a health maintenance organization that serves the Medicaid and PeachCare for Kids® populations in partnership with the Georgia Families program.

The benefits include: •

Vision and dental benefits: Members can stay up to date with regular eye exams and teeth cleanings.

•

My Health Pays: Members complete healthy activities to earn up to $400 in rewards.

•

Get Fit rewards programs: Members are eligible for free memberships at participating gyms.

•

Kids sports scholarships: Children can receive a $50 sports scholarship for activity fees and uniform costs. Sports exams are also covered.

For more information, visit pickpeachstate.com or call 1 (800) 704-1484.

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REACHING OUR SISTERS EVERYWHERE

eaching Our Sisters Everywhere, known as ‘ROSE,” is a Georgia-based, 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization founded in 2011. ROSE addresses breastfeeding disparities and improves health equity among people of color nationwide through culturally competent training, education, advocacy and support. With a focus on increasing breastfeeding initiation and duration rates, ROSE seeks to normalize breastfeeding by providing resources and networking for individuals and communities. ROSE aims to address health equity, with breastfeeding as the cornerstone for improving the nation’s capacity to identify, prioritize and customize services to address public health needs.

•

Training health care providers to manage lactating patients.

ROSE’s programs and services include the following: •

The ROSE Baby Café operates as a drop-in clinic, allowing families to arrive anytime during the hours of operation. The café is staffed by breastfeeding support providers.

•

The ROSE Breastfriends Training focuses on providing breastfeeding education and support to families for the first six to eight weeks of the postpartum period.

•

The ROSE Community Transformer Training uses an evidence-based curriculum that teaches the essential skills for providing peer counseling in lactation management and the methods for making referrals to resources for interventions outside of the counselors’ scope of practice.

•

Reaching Our Brothers Everywhere educates, equips and empowers men to help increase breastfeeding rates and decrease infant mortality rates in African-American communities.

ROSE is committed to: •

Empowering a growing cadre of advocacyoriented “community transformers.”

•

Working with leaders in the private and public sectors to develop policies for health care services that support breastfeeding activities.

•

Providing education and training for agencies to enhance steps 3 and 10 of the Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative which addresses equitable prenatal and postpartum support services.*

For more information, visit breastfeedingrose.org or call (404) 719-4297.

Establishing and implementing national and regional initiatives to enhance and strengthen family and community breastfeeding programs, such as:

*For information on the Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative, visit www.who.int/activities/promotingbaby-friendly-hospitals/ten-steps-to-successfulbreastfeeding.

•

Breastfeeding clubs.

Cultural breastfeeding coalitions.

Faith-based breastfeeding outreach initiatives.

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R OYA L A D U LT DAY S E R V I C E S

oyal Adult Day Services is a nonprofit adult day center that focuses on improving the quality of life for persons living with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias. The center is a certified provider of the evidence-based intervention Cognitive Stimulation Therapy. This program improves cognition and quality of life for persons living with mild to moderate dementia. Cognitive Stimulation Therapy provides guidelines for structuring small, theme-based sessions to stimulate and engage participants within an optimal learning, fun and relaxed environment. The 14 sessions include a choice of activities to cater to the interests and abilities of the group. One 90-year-old participant, Ms. Dubose, often reminds us that she was a teacher in Alabama for 44 years. She says, “I really enjoy coming here to school because I love learning new things.” It’s worth noting that persons living with Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia not only enjoy the socialization

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and engagement in a structured setting, but they are excited about learning new things at the center. Located near Stone Mountain Village on Memorial Drive, Royal Adult Day Services is a family-centered, community-based program. It offers stimulating, highly engaging activities that help its amazing participants enjoy life to the fullest, despite their journey with dementia. Royal Adult Day Services provides loving care in a protective, congregate, daytime setting, enabling family caregivers to work, run errands or get needed respite. Nutritious, healthy meals are catered and participants receive snacks throughout the day. In addition to providing a variety of coordinated social and support services, the center partners with the Area Agency on Aging to offer educational programs for caregivers. For more information, visit www.royaladultday.com or call (404) 610-9895.

RSA DEASIL ADVISORS

SA Deasil Advisors provides one-on-one advisory services, public speaking and publications. Its goal is to increase the wealth of the communities it serves. The firm is a registered investment advisor in the State of Georgia. RSA Deasil Advisors offers: â&#x20AC;˘

Advisory services: One-on-one relationships that guide individuals, families and businesses through the emotional and practical strategies of managing money, investing and financial planning.

â&#x20AC;˘

Public speaking: In-person presentations that provide messages on money management, economics, history and current events. Presentations are designed for businesses, YMCAs, youth programs, festivals and community organizations. Topics include budgeting, student loans, debt management, retirement accounts, creating and growing wealth, investing, health and money, and giving.

For more information, visit rsadeasiladvisors.com or call (531) 333-2745.

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RUBY A. NEESON DIABETES A W A R E N E S S F O U N DAT I O N

he Ruby A. Neeson Diabetes Awareness Foundation was inaugurated in 2012 as a public charity. It is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit foundation that provides comprehensive diabetes educational and social programs, with attention to serving medically underserved, vulnerable and special needs populations. The mission is to implement behavior change strategies to eradicate health disparities. The foundation is the only grassroots organization in Georgia that is led by community health workers who are advancing a tailored approach to promoting community empowerment and social justice in health care. The Ruby A. Neeson Diabetes Awareness Foundation’s key programs are: •

•

Diabetes Support Group: The group offers education, community resources, encouragement, outings and guest speakers. Meetings are available to older adults, veterans, youth, faith-based organizations, families, worksite groups and caregivers. Nutrition for Wellness: This six-month lifestyle change program provides nutrition education, chef-led cooking classes and education on food procurement and urban agriculture/gardening.

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•

Project Saving Soles: The diabetic foot care awareness program uses peer educators to teach those with diabetes about how to take care of their feet.

•

Sock-It to Diabetes: This community service collects new socks for the homeless. To date, over 800 pairs of socks have been donated.

The foundation’s recent highlights include: •

In January 2020, receiving the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service charitable contribution from the Ashley Stewart women’s clothing company.

•

In February 2020, partnering with the Friends of the Urban Food Forest at Browns Mill to provide health education.

For more information, visit fightdiabetesnow.org or call (404) 838-1620.

SAINT PHILIP COMMUNITY D E V E LO P M E N T C O R P O R AT I O N

he Saint Philip Community Development Corporation is a community and economic development organization that engages the community through educational and housing programs and services. It invites the surrounding residents to active lifestyle activities to promote healthy living in an easy, uplifting way. The Saint Philip Community Development Corporation is a ministry of Saint Philip AME Church. Since 2014, Saint Philip’s has had a shared-use agreement with the Board of Health through a Racial and Ethnic Approaches to Community Health (REACH) grant from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. A “shared-use agreement” enables the congregation to share its programs and facilities with the community. This gives residents opportunities to maintain active, healthy lifestyles at little or no cost. SPIRIT FITNESS offers group fitness and health education classes for all levels. Instructors lead a variety of activities to accommodate everyone. Classes are fun and effective--making it easy to create and maintain a healthy lifestyle!

During 2018-2019, the corporation again offered SPIRIT FITNESS activities through a shared-use agreement. Residents participated in activities such as cardiovascular line dance, fitness yoga, abdominal and cardiovascular workouts, and personal training/ full body workouts. In addition, the center hosted health-related educational sessions. One woman shared: “Since I started participating in the program, I have lost almost 15 pounds of weight and my muscle mass has increased. My blood pressure is normal, and my resting pulse rate is surprisingly low. I now exercise every day, using the plan provided by the professional trainer and I am more aware of what I eat, how much I eat and, most importantly, what NOT to eat. I am wearing clothes now that I have not worn in a few years and my ankles do not swell anymore.” For more information, visit saintphilip.org/ ministries/spc-community-developmentcorporation or call (404) 371-0749.

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UNIVERSITY OF GEORGIA EXTENSION

he University of Georgia Extension in DeKalb County offers reliable, nonbiased, research-based information and programs to the community in the areas of food, health, families, agriculture, the environment and youth development. The Family and Consumer Sciences team educates individuals and families about food, nutrition, healthy homes and basic financial management. Agents offer classes on topics such as green cleaning, making jams and jellies, grocery shopping on a budget and understanding food nutrition labels. The team also offers two nutrition education programs to promote healthy food and lifestyle choices to prevent obesity: the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program Education Program and the Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program. They offer a variety of resources, including in-person and online classes, to help individuals and families with children learn how to eat healthy meals and snacks, stretch their food dollars and reduce the risk of foodborne illness. Another way the team addresses food insecurity, nutrition and health is through the Fresh on DeK: DeKalb Mobile Farmers Market. Its mission is to provide nutrition education, access to affordable produce and food demonstrations. Fresh on DeK is a program of University of Georgia Extension in DeKalb County, the DeKalb County Government and the DeKalb County Board of Health. It is made possible with funding from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the DeKalb County Government. During the 2020 season, the University of Georgia DeKalb County Cooperative Extension

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responded to the COVID-19 pandemic by offering free, pre-bagged produce to community members. This limited person-to-person interaction and supported families in need. The stops were in the communities most affected by COVID-19 The Agriculture and Natural Resources team is dedicated to developing knowledgeable consumers, protecting and increasing property values, and promoting sound environmental practices that conserve and protect natural resources. The staff and volunteers discuss garden and landscape problems and solutions. County residents can access services to identify pests, weeds and diseases and to analyze soil and drinking water problems. Gardeners interested in volunteering and getting involved in their community can apply to become master gardeners and attend an intensive 13-day training course. For individuals interested in horticulture, the team offers classes on community gardens, ornamental trees and shrubs, turf, perennials and more. The 4-H Youth Development Program focuses on leadership, citizenship, public speaking, science and technology, financial literacy and life skills. Todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 4-H also teaches about computers, recycling, photography, nutrition, decision making, teamwork and many other topics. Youth between the ages of 9 and 19 may join and over 3,000 DeKalb County youth participate each year. Some clubs are part of the DeKalb County School District and meet before or after school. Other clubs meet at the DeKalb County Extension Office and Parks and Recreation centers. For more information, visit extension.uga.edu/dekalb or call (404) 298-4080.

W E L LC A R E H E A LT H P L A N

ellCare Health Plan is one of the four health plans that serve Georgiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Medicaid, PeachCare for KidsÂŽ and Planning for Healthy Babies members.

WellCare provides benefits and services specified by federal requirements for health plans administering to Medicaid members. It helps members and their communities lead better and healthier lives. Eligible children and adults can take advantage of a variety of

benefits, including a wide selection of specialists and a 24-hour personal health advisor. Women have direct access to in-network womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s health specialists for covered routine and preventive services. WellCare also has many advocacy and communitybased programs designed to connect members with community resources and to help members navigate the local social support network. For more information, visit wellcare.com/Georgia.

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W O M E N W ATC H A F R I K A

omen Watch Afrika is a nonprofit organization that works at the international, national and local levels. It focuses on eliminating all forms of discrimination against women and girls, promoting the social and economic development and health equity of women, and helping refugees and immigrants from 23 African nations acculturate to the U.S. The organization advocates for selfsufficiency, independence and empowerment, while also providing outreach assistance, re-adjustment programs and referral services.

For example, the Preventative Health and Civic Engagement Program has trained over 150 refugee women as preventative health advocates. They have reached almost 4,500 refugee and immigrant families with health education, including promoting healthy behaviors and raising awareness of the dangers of female genital mutilation/cutting. Women Watch Afrika’s successes in 2020 include: •

Conducting community-wide “get out the vote” and “get out the (census) count” outreach, including making almost 11,000 phone calls, canvassing at over 700 doors, collecting over 900 pledge cards and sending over 45,000 text messages.

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Providing weekly COVID-19 update texts reaching almost 900 families. Text messages are translated in multiple languages.

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Helping over 20 legal permanent residents complete their citizenship applications.

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Providing legislative training to over 50 community members and cohosting Refugees and Immigrants Advocacy Day at the Georgia Capitol.

Women Watch Afrika provides the following: • • • • • • • • • • •

Advocacy against unjust, discriminatory laws that affect the community. Citizenship preparation. Civic engagement. “End domestic violence” classes. Health education. “Know your rights” workshops. Legal education. Legal services. Reproductive justice awareness. Social services. Workshops to stop female genital mutilation/ cutting.

For more information, visit womenwatchafrika.org or call (404) 759-6419.

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Z A R I A’ S S O N G

aria’s Song provides support to parents of children that experience special needs. Zaria’s song was founded by Teresa Wright-Johnson in honor of her daughter Zaria Lassiter. Zaria was truly a special treasure and was born premature. She had cerebral palsy, a seizure disorder and other disabilities. Zaria was a child that loved music, song, dance and smiles. Unfortunately, Zaria passed away due to complications of a seizure at seven years old. Through Zaria’s Song, Teresa has helped hundreds of other parents in the journey of special needs parenting through working with other local and national organizations.

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Seizure awareness training. Bereavement support. Parent education. Support groups. Family/children events.

Zaria’s Song is a member of The Federation of Families for Children’s Mental Health and hosts a support group called “The Younger Years & Beyond.” The chapter focuses on children’s mental health advocacy and support for families in DeKalb and Rockdale counties and south Gwinnett County. For more information, visit ateducational.wixsite.com/zariassong.

Services include: • Special needs advocacy training. • Special needs community resources. • CPR/1st aid certification.

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MEMBER D I R E C TO R Y Entries submitted by coalition members. Readers are encouraged to contact these organizations if you or anyone you know can benefit from any of the resources or services provided.

B Beyond the Bell Name: Karen Citizen-Wilcox Telephone number: (770) 285-6037 Email: beyondthebell@comcast.net Website: www.beyondthebellkids.org Service(s) or resource(s) provided: Life skills training. BRIMI Foundation Name: Robin Barnes Telephone number: (404) 334-7144 Email: contact@mybrimiinc.org Website: www.mybrimiinc.org Service(s) or resource(s) provided: Youth development.

Cosmic Energy Fitness Studio Name: Patrice Peters Telephone number: (678) 948-5524 Email: info@cosmicenergyfitness.com Website: www.cosmicenergyfitness.com Service(s) or resource(s) provided: Health coaching, personal training, group fitness and senior fitness.

C Center for Pan Asian Community Services Name: Carina Nieto Email: cari.nietoramirez1@gmail.com Name: Megan Keaveney Email: megan.keaveney@cpacs.org Telephone number: (706) 847-4798 Website: www.cpacs.org Service(s) or resource(s) provided: Comprehensive health and social services to refugees and immigrants in the metro Atlanta area. CKL Marketing Services Name: Cynthia K. Loftin Telephone number: (404) 551-0451 Email: ckl@alumni.duke.edu Service(s) or resource(s) provided: Marketing and fund development.

Community Unification Initiatives Name: Chinester Graves Telephone number: (770) 313-5848 Email: chinester.graves@yahoo.com Website: www.cuiatl.org Service(s) or resource(s) provided: Health and financial literacy workshops, domestic violence prevention.

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DeKalb County Police Athletic League Plus Name: Sergeant J.M. Love Telephone number: (770) 724-7467 Email: jmlove@dekalbcountyga.gov Website: www.dekalbcountypalplus.org Service(s) or resource(s) provided: Youth intervention programs, youth sports and community outreach. DeKalb County Public Library Name: Alicia Brown Telephone number: (404) 508-7190, ext. 2224 Email: browna@dekalblibrary.org Name: Myguail Chappel Telephone number: (404) 508-7190 Email: chappelm@dekalblibrary.org Website: www.dekalblibrary.org Service(s) or resource(s) provided: Programs for all ages, 24/7 access to resource databases, books, e-books and extensive research collections.

Diabetes Community Action Coalition Name: Vicki Karnes Telephone number: (740) 807-1054 Email: diabeteshelpatl@gmail.com Website: www.diabeteshelpatl.org Service(s) or resource(s) provided: Community resources and support to prevent type 2 diabetes and complications from all forms of diabetes. Information provided on understanding the healthcare safety net in metro Atlanta, saving money on prescription drugs, navigating the healthcare system and transition to Medicare. Diabetes “You Can Win” Foundation Name: Lisa Graham Telephone number: (404) 396-4417 Email: lisagraham@diabetesyoucanwin.org Website: www.diabetesyoucanwin.org Service(s) or resource(s) provided: Blood glucose and blood pressure screenings, diabetes and diabetes prevention education, diabetes support groups, diabetes caregiver support groups, walking club, dance exercise and nutrition program.

E Emory University Urban Health Initiative Name: Brittany Evans Telephone number: (404) 778-5481 Email: brittany.evans@emory.edu Website: www.urbanhealthinitiative.emory.edu Service(s) or resource(s) provided: Oral health care, health advocacy education, community garden, doula support for teens and tobacco cessation sessions.

G Gang Breakers Organization Name: Harrison Peters Telephone number: (404) 916-4538 Email: gangbreakersorganization@gmail.com Website: www.gangbreaker.org Service(s) or resource(s) provided: Mentoring and tutoring. Georgia Senior Medicare Patrol Name: Nathan Coflin Telephone number: (877) 272-8729 Email: ncoflin@eqhs.org Website: www.stopmedicarefraud.org Service(s) or resource(s) provided: Resources for Medicare beneficiaries to prevent, detect and report health care scams.

Glamour Girl Fitness Name: Jackie Madison Telephone number: (404) 274-7586 Email: madison4574@bellsouth.net Website: www.glamourgirlfitness.org Service(s) or resource(s) provided: Health, fitness, lifestyle and weight management. Great Day Family Connections Name: Dona Harris Telephone number: (770) 560-3142 Email: dona.greatdayconnections@gmail.com Website: www.greatdayconnections.org Service(s) or resource(s) provided: Family enrichment activities, workshops and American Sign Language classes. GUIDE Name: Kimberly Wilson Telephone number: (470) 345-9241 Email: kimberly@guideinc.org Website: www.guideinc.org Service(s) or resource(s) provided: Positive youth development and substance abuse prevention.

H Honidu’s Caring Foundation & Empowerment Programs Name: Honidu Marico Telephone number: (678) 437-9267 Email: training@hcfgps.org Website: www.hcfgps.org Service(s) or resource(s) provided: Advocacy, wellness, employment, and financial advisory and legal services. Hopeful Change Name: Derrick Townsend Telephone number: (678) 521-0650 Email: thehopefulchange@gmail.com Website: hope2change.com Service(s) or resource(s) provided: Counseling/ therapy, mentoring, community outreach, educational programs, sports and youth camps, and fundraising.

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Lady Butterflies Name: Felicia A. Shanklin Telephone number: (678) 902-5239 Email: ladybutterflies@yahoo.com Website: www.ladybutterflies.org Service(s) or resource(s) provided: Health and wellness, education, job readiness, and advocacy and mentoring

RSA Deasil Advisors Name: Randall Avery Telephone number: (770) 712-1102 Email: ravery@rsadeasiladvisors.com Website: www.rsadeasiladvisors.com Service(s) of resource(s) provided: Financial literacy workshops.

LVNGbook Name: Shaun Chavis Telephone number: (404) 410-0021 Email: shaun@lvngbook.com Website: www.lvngbook.com Personalized cookbooks and habit-change guides to prevent and manage heart disease.

Ruby A. Neeson Diabetes Awareness Foundation Name: Mutima Jackson-Anderson Telephone number: (404) 838-1620 Email: mutima.anderson@fightdiabetesnow.org Website: www.fightdiabetesnow.org Service(s) or resource(s) provided: Comprehensive diabetes education and social services in medically underserved areas and populations.

M My Girls Name: Dunyell Dawson Telephone number: (470) 207-3374 Email: dunyelldawson@gmail.com Website: www.mygirlsinc.org Service(s) or resource(s) provided: Mentoring and programs that cover mental health, whole health, entrepreneurship, positive self-image, support groups, self-development and life skills for middle and high school girls.

Sagittal Soul Health & Fitness Name: Yovanna Madhere Telephone number: (786) 486-2789 Email: sagittalsoul@gmail.com Website: www.sagittalsoul.com Service(s) or resource(s) provided: Health coaching, personal training and group fitness.

N Natural Living Solutions Name: Quanda Stroud Telephone number: (404) 509-0559 Email: iammsq@yahoo.com Service(s) or resource(s) provided: Organic community and home gardens, natural products and services.

WellCare Health Plan Name: Anthony Ivey, Jr. Telephone number: (470) 528-1281 Email: anthony.ivey@wellcare.com Service(s) or resource(s) provided: Health plan benefit education.

P Pea Pod Nutrition and Lactation Support Name: Alicia Simpson Telephone number: (678) 607-6052 Email: info@peapodnutrition.org Website: www.peapodnutrition.org Service(s) or resource(s) provided: Nutrition education and counseling, breastfeeding education and counseling, and diabetes education.

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Zariaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Song Name: Teresa Wright-Johnson Telephone number: (404) 662-0677 Email: zariassong@gmail.com Website: www.zariassong.org Service(s) or resource(s) provided: Special needs advocacy and education.

IMPROVING H E A LT H T H R O U G H PA R T N E R S H I P S This publication was funded in part by a Racial and Ethnic Approaches to Community Health (REACH) grant. REACH is a national program administered by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to reduce racial and ethnic health disparities. Through REACH, local partners address the specific health needs of DeKalb County. The DeKalb County Board of Health and its community partners work collaboratively to implement tailored, community-based and participatory strategies to address poor nutrition and lack of physical activity, with an emphasis on policy, systems and environmental change. The DeKalb County Board of Health has received a REACH grant for September 2018 through September 2023. Through this grant, partnerships were created with non-profit organizations, schools, faith-based organizations and government agencies to address poor nutrition and lack of physical activity and to improve community-clinical linkages. These partners include: DeKalb County Schools

Government Agencies

Chapel Hill Elementary School

DeKalb County School District

Columbia Elementary School

DeKalb County Parks, Recreation and Cultural Affairs

E.L. Bouie Elementary School

Georgia Safe Routes to School Resource Center

Narvie Harris Elementary School

University of Georgia DeKalb County Cooperative

Ronald E. McNair Discovery Learning Academy

Extension

Snapfinger Elementary School Toney Elementary School

Non-profit Organizations

Wynbrooke Elementary School

National Association of County & City Health Officials Physicians' Care Clinic

Faith-based Organizations

Reaching Our Sisters Everywhere

The Beulah Community Family Life Center The Bridge at Austin Community Center Greater Smith Chapel AME Church Mt. Zion AME Church Saint Philip Community Development Corporation Stronghold Christian Church Turner Monumental AME Church

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20 ANNUAL PARTNERS 20 GUIDE

LIVE HEALTHY DEKALB COALITION

LIVE HEALTHY DEKALB COALITION 445 Winn Way Decatur, Ga. 30030 (404) 508-7985 LiveHealthyDeKalb@gmail.com @LHDCoalition Made possible with funding from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and The DeKalb County Board of Health September 2020