Event – GRAAHI

GRAAHI Empowers Black Healthcare Students with Scholarships During Black History Month

February 21, 2024February 12, 2024 by GRAAHI Editorial

Program seeks to diversify the healthcare workforce in Grand Rapids

Grand Rapids, MI – February 21, 2024 –In celebration of Black History Month, the Grand Rapids African American Health Institute (GRAAHI) proudly announces the awarding of scholarships to nine deserving Black students pursuing healthcare careers. These scholarships, funded by the W.k.Kellogg Foundation are a crucial component of the organization’s multi-year Pathways to Healthcare Careers program. The scholarship program is named in honor of Dr. Khan Nedd, one of GRAAHI’s founding board members for his relentless dedication and contributions to GRAAHI and the health and well-being of the Black community.

Pathways to Healthcare Careers, in collaboration with educational and medical institutions, serves as a comprehensive program for underserved students to enter and excel in healthcare professions. Recognizing the financial barriers many students face, the scholarships add additional support, allowing them to focus on their studies and successfully navigate their chosen paths. Dr. Nedd emphasizes GRAAHI’s commitment: “We are dedicated to nurturing the next generation of Black healthcare professionals. These scholarships, combined with the Pathways program, address disparities in the healthcare workforce by empowering talented students and ensuring they have the resources to achieve their dreams of serving their communities.”

The nine scholarship recipients, selected for their academic achievements, community service dedication, and unwavering pursuit of healthcare careers, are:

Constance Phillips: Ferris State University, dental hygiene student.
Darron Trevino: Ferris State University, nursing student.
Tyona Brown: Ferris State University, dental hygiene student.
LaDonna Lewis: Davenport University, nursing student.
Kierra Washington: Grand Valley State University, exercise science student.
Sherie West: Davenport University, nursing student.
Zhaniya Robinson: Michigan State University, nursing student.
Todja Sanders: Ferris State University, healthcare career path.
Betty Millien: Davenport University, healthcare career path.
Samantha Harris, Davenport University, nursing student

Constance Phillips, a scholarship recipient, expresses her gratitude: “I am so grateful to

be a part of the Pathways program and to receive the Dr. Khan Nedd Scholarship. It

helps support my education so that I can focus on my studies and confidently pursue

my goal of becoming a dental hygienist and serving my community.”

“We are very proud of these students and excited about the service and contributions they will make to their communities,” added Vanessa Greene, CEO, GRAAHI.

To learn more about Pathways to Healthcare Careers, go to graahi.com/education.

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month: The Importance of Breast Screening for Women of Color

October 17, 2023 by Barbara Lash

Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women, and it can affect anyone at any age. However, women of color are at an increased risk of developing breast cancer and dying from the disease.

Statistics on Breast Cancer Rates Among Women of Color

Black women have a 40% higher death rate from breast cancer than white women, even though their incidence rate is slightly lower.
Hispanic women are more likely to be diagnosed with breast cancer at a later stage than white women.
Asian women have the lowest incidence rate of breast cancer but are more likely to be diagnosed with triple-negative breast cancer, which is a more aggressive form of the disease.

Why is Early Detection of Breast Cancer Important?

Early detection of breast cancer is essential for improving survival rates. When breast cancer is found early, it is more treatable and has a better prognosis.

How Does Breast Screening Work?

Breast screening is a series of tests that are used to detect breast cancer early. The most common breast screening tests are mammograms and clinical breast exams.

Mammograms are low-dose X-rays of the breast that can show changes in the breast tissue that may be cancer.
Clinical breast exams are physical exams of the breasts that are performed by a healthcare provider.

Breast Screening for Women of Color

Women of color should talk to their healthcare provider about their individual risk of breast cancer and develop a breast screening plan that is right for them. Some experts recommend that black women start getting mammograms at age 40, instead of the standard age of 50.

Breast Screening Event in Grand Rapids, Michigan

On October 25th, 2023, from 9am to 3pm, there will be a breast screening event at Pilgrim Rest MBC in Grand Rapids, Michigan. The event will feature the mobile mammogram unit from Trinity Health Michigan.

To schedule an appointment for a mammogram at the event, go to https://www.trinityhealthmichigan.org/classes-and-events/mobile-mammography-unit or call 855-559-7179 (Request Mobile Unit > Grand Rapids > Preferred Date & Time)

GRAAHI to Host Inaugural Health Disparities Transformational Summit

September 11, 2023 by Barbara Lash

The Grand Rapids African American Health Institute (GRAAHI) will host its inaugural Health Disparities Transformational Summit on Monday, October 9, 2023, from 8:00 am to 2:00 pm at the Calvin College Prince Conference Center in Grand Rapids, Michigan.

The summit aims to shed light on the critical issue of health disparities and gather key stakeholders to explore solutions and create meaningful change in our most vulnerable and marginalized communities. The event will feature a keynote address by civil rights icon Xernona Clayton, as well as panel discussions on a variety of topics related to health disparities in our community. Specifically we will feature discussions about:

Infant/Maternal Health
Health Literacy
Sickle Cell Disease
Trends from GRAAHI’s Health Equity Index
Chronic Diseases: The impact of social issues of poverty, racism. Discrimination
Implicit Bias
and more

“We are excited to host this important summit and bring together a diverse group of leaders to discuss how we can address the challenges of health disparities,” said GRAAHI President and CEO Dr. Vanessa Greene. “This is an opportunity for us to share our experiences, learn from each other, and develop strategies to make a real difference in the lives of our community members.”

The summit is open to professionals, policymakers, researchers, community leaders, and advocates from diverse backgrounds. Tickets are $125 per person and includes lunch. To register, visit graahi.com/summit

Together, we can make a difference!

Rhythm Health Fair Returns August 19th

August 1, 2023 by Barbara Lash

This FREE fun-filled annual event attracts 500+ community members who come together to support healthy lifestyles.

Join the fun with these activities:

Walk around the Park to Support Health Equity
Exercise and fitness training
Mammogram van
Vaccination clinic
Blood pressure, and A1C check-up stations
The YMCA veggie van and over 30 health resource vendors
Prizes and giveaways
Music and Dance
A Kids .1K run
Free Backpacks and School Supplies
Delicious free catered lunch

To learn more go to graahi.com/rhythmrun

Thank you to our sponsors that make FREE community events like this happen:

Platinum

Corewell Health

HealthState of MI

VanAndel Foundation

Gold

Trinity Health

Meijer Corporation

Mercantile Bank

Silver

Blue Cross Blue Shield

Health & Wellness HIV Event

July 3, 2023 by Barbara Lash

Join us July 21st for a Health and Wellness Celebration designed to end the stigma around HIV.

This community health and wellness celebration will bring resources, fun and connection to the community. While ending HIV stigma will be our focus, we brought together a collection of community partners invested in the community from all ranges and reaches! With live entertainment, health services, games, and more want to celebrate GOOD HEALTH with our Grand Rapids family.

The event is FREE and no registration is required.

Get Your Heart Pumping and Move Your Body in this FREE Class.

February 17, 2023 by GRAAHI Editorial

GRAAHI and the Grand Rapids Black Nurses Association are hosting a FREE 40-minute community workout circuit at The Other Body Fitness Gym. During this event, you will learn how 30 minutes of exercise a day can help maintain a healthy weight, reduce stress levels, and decrease your chances of heart disease later in life.

The details for this event are :

Location: The Other Body Fitness Gym – 3949 28th Street SE Grand Rapids, MI 49512
Time: 3:00pm – 4:30pm
Services: Heart Healthy presentation followed by a 40 min circuit workout (for beginners). NO PRIOR WORKOUT EXPERIENCE NEEDED. All participants must be 18+ to participate.

Please note that this event has the capacity for 15 participants. We will review submissions on a first come first basis and will reach out to you once your spot is confirmed.

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfbtdRfVFmwW8lLb7kaGTFQBqBLQNZrpyMVoldCb_QGFkfoyQ/viewform

GRAAHI blood drive brings awareness to the need for diversity in blood donations.

February 16, 2023January 5, 2023 by Barbara Lash

This January, National Blood Donor Month, GRAAHI follows in the footsteps of two heroes for life, Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., and Dr. Charles Richard Drew, by joining with Versiti to hold a Blood Drive at Brown Hutcherson Ministries.

In the 1940s, Dr. Charles Drew laid the groundwork for today’s modern blood donation program through his innovative work in blood banking. The Red Cross blood bank program began in 1940, under the leadership of Drew who became the organization’s first medical director in 1941.

“He was a surgeon, educator, scientist and the first African-American blood specialist who helped shape the blood services industry. His legacy is far-reaching and we hope this drive helps educate the community about the need for a diverse blood supply,” said Vanessa Greene, CEO of the Grand Rapids African American Health Institute.

Why is an ethnically diverse blood supply important?

Because blood type is inherited, a compatible donor is often someone of a similar ethnic background. Diversity in donation is important for improved patient outcomes, as rare and uncommon blood types are often found in similar ethnic populations.

For example, sickle cell patients may require chronic blood transfusions to treat their disease, Since 44% of African Americans have Ro blood, providing matched Ro blood to sickle cell patients may provide a safer blood transfusion. Patients are less likely to experience complications from blood donated by someone with a similar ethnicity.

Become a Hero for Life and feel the good benefits of supporting your community. Join us January 21st from 9:30am to 1:30pm at Brown Hutcherson Ministries, 618 Jefferson Ave SE, Grand Rapids, MI, 49503. GRAAHI seeks to create a welcoming and safe environment with a team focused on supporting your needs as you donate.

Every pint can save 3 lives!To sign up to donate, and learn more about Dr. Drew, go to graahi.com/giveblood.

Meaning in Colors – Holiday Pop Up Shop

December 8, 2022December 7, 2022 by Barbara Lash

Join us December 17th as we co-host a FREE Christmas shopping opportunity for families in need. In a time of residual and onging challenges with a pandemic and rising costs, we understand that creating an abundant holiday can be additional stress to your mental health. That’s why we are supporting Meaning in Colors in creating this fun community-centered shopping event. The heads of families can shop for their family members from a stock-pile of donated goods! No kids are allowed at the event as this is meant to be a suprise for them! (Hello Santa!)

Currently we are signing up families to shop at: FAMILY SIGN UP

We’re also inviting community members and organizations to donate new items to our shop. And we’d love to have additional hands on that day with friendly volunteers. To make a donation or volunteer, email us at: MIC.info@MeaningInColors.org

We’re honored to co-sponsor this event with Meaning in Colors, a local nonprofit that strives to support education and housing for our community members. Collaborations like this mean we’re tackling the social determinants that impact the health of our black and brown communities.

To read more go to:

https://www.meaningincolors.org/gift-giving-pop-up-shop

To support more programs like this, donate as you are able at: graahi.com/growth

Join us May 21 for Family Event in Garfield Park

May 2, 2022April 28, 2022 by Barbara Lash

GRAAHI joins other local organizations to host public Field day for Mental and Physical Wellness

Ready for some Family Fun? Join us on May 21st from 2pm to 5 pm at Garfield Park (near John Ball Zoo) for a day of activities, entertainment, prizes and fitness fun. We’ll be partnering up with local organizations to offer this FREE family event.

April 21 Declared GRAAHI Healthcare Advocacy Day, Mayor Bliss issues proclamation in support of Grand Rapids African American Health Institute

December 19, 2022April 21, 2022 by Barbara Lash

Grand Rapids, Mich. (April 20, 2022) – The Grand Rapids African American Health Institute (GRAAHI) is proud to announce that Mayor Rosalynn Bliss has declared Thursday, April 21, 2022 the first-ever “GRAAHI Healthcare Advocacy Day” in the city of Grand Rapids.

In the proclamation Mayor Bliss highlights GRAAHI’s advocacy work in the community and states, “the City of Grand Rapids is dedicated to eliminating healthcare inequity and supporting those organizations promoting healthcare equality.”

The proclamation comes as GRAAHI celebrates its 20^thanniversary of advocating for health parity for African Americans in our community. The day will culminate with a virtual Gala where GRAAHI will recognize four prominent leaders in our community for their efforts in bringing greater health equity for all residents. The Equity Champion Awards will be presented to:

• Christina Keller, President/CEO, Cascade Engineering

• Christina (Tina) Freese Decker, President/CEO, Spectrum Health Systems

• Teresa Weatherall Neal, CEO, Lead 616

• Dr. Wanda Lipscomb, MSU College of Human Medicine

“We greatly appreciate the Mayor’s proclamation in support of our organization,” said Vanessa Greene, CEO of GRAAHI. “The City’s commitment along with the support of the healthcare community, volunteers and donors, is essential to us achieving our goal of health parity for all in Grand Rapids.”

The GRAAHI 2021 Health Equity Report highlights the societal factors that block access to healthcare for many minority residents in Grand Rapids, leading to higher rates of illness and death from COVID-19, heart disease, lung cancer, HIV, obesity, depression, diabetes and infant mortality. If you would like learn more about how to get involved with our organization or would like to make a donation, simply go to the GRAAHI.org website.