Who We Are
Since 2002, the Grand Rapids African American Health Institute has addressed the racial/ethnic inequities in health care outcomes for African Americans. Staggering data fro the Kent County Health Department, state and national government showed the need for an intentional effort to eliminate such inequities.
We work to address these issues at both the health systems level and community level, an approach we take to maximize effectiveness of our impact.
Our Mission
To eradicate health disparities for African Americans by influencing health policy and practice through community engagement, advocacy, research, and education.
Our Vision
To ensure that all West Michigan residents have optimal health care and benefit from health systems without race being an impediment.
Support Our Mission
A Note From Our CEO
Research consistently shows that chronic disease prevention and mental health outcomes improve when individuals are supported. That is why we’ve developed health literacy initiatives and wellness cohorts that focus intentionally on these areas. These programs have proven to be not only impactful, but life-changing for many participants, equipping them with knowledge and practices that foster long-term health and vitality.
Vanessa Greene, CEO
The GRAAHI Impact
Since our founding in 2002, GRAAHI has made a significant impact on the health of African Americans in Grand Rapids.
Our Board Of Directors
Paul Doyle
Board Co-Chair
CEO of Inclusive Performance Strategies
Dr. Darla Bishop
Board Co-Chair
Manager, Marketing & Communications Health Programs AmeriHealth Caritas
Rochelle Fuller
Treasurer
Senior Financial Analyst at Nestle
Dr. Khan Nedd, MD
Medical Director
CEO of Infusion Associates
Laura Moody, RN
Faculty
Grand Rapids Community College
Dr. Phillip Guajardo
Outpatient Psychiatrist
Holland Hospital
Dr. Tiffany Letts
Pediatrics
University of Michigan Health
Dr. Fatma Mili
Provost and Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs
Grand Valley State University
Mia Gutridge
Human Resources Manager
Grand Rapids Housing Commission
Misti Stanton
Vice President, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Officer
Mercantile Bank
Eddie Rucker
Consultant
Our Values
Our coalition of C.A.R.E. guides our work, programs, and how we support the community. Each value provides guidance of the quality and equity of our work and ensures each step we take is in the right direction.
