How long have you been a member of the Black Health Network, and what drew you to CBHN?

I’ve been a member of the Black Health Network since 2023. In October 2023, I attended the Briefing: Black Health Equity presented by the California Health Care Foundation and heard Rhonda Smith, Executive Director ofCalifornia Black Health Network, speak.

What is your current profession?

I am a social worker and the States Advocacy Director with Compassion and Choices- California, the nation’s oldest, largest, and most active nonprofit working to expand options, improve care, and empower everyone to chart their end-of-life journey.

From your perspective, what barriers exist in achieving health equity for Black Californians?

Barriers to health equity for Black Californians can stem from systemic injustices beyond the healthcare system, including issues in education, housing, and employment, that can affect access to quality care. 

Within the healthcare system, it’s important to feel supported by your healthcare team and be able to trust that your healthcare team works to honor your goals of care, values, culture, and beliefs. While I think many would agree there are problems within our healthcare system, it’s clear our healthcare system has broken this trust with many Black Californians.

We know more needs to be done to promote health equity at the end of life. Black Americans receive less pain medication and palliative care, are less likely to document their end-of-life wishes, and choose hospice less often than White Americans. Conversely, they often experience more aggressive, non-beneficial treatments and have higher rates of emergency room visits and hospitalizations.

It’s important that healthcare providers come from diverse backgrounds, listen to their patients,  and communicate health information in culturally competent ways. Patients should have multiple care options, affordable services, and providers who spend adequate time building relationships- discussing diagnoses, prognoses, treatment options and outcomes, and potential side effects- so patients can make informed decisions.

Both in your work and with CBHN, how have you been able to prioritize the health of Black Californians?

My role focuses on educating communities and advocating for improved end-of-life care. I actively listen to Black Americans to understand their needs and integrate their perspectives into my work.

I join webinars, attend conferences, listen to podcasts, and watch recordings of conferences hosted by Black Americans. I really enjoyed the “How Do I” series CBHN did and hearing the expert’s tips on how to access better care for the Black community. I watched the recording of “The Journey Home” Conference that our African American Leadership Council hosted and regularly listen to podcasts and panels featuring my Black colleagues.

I also support, lift up, and partner with organizations that are already doing good work to promote health equity.  I strive to be inclusive, honor perspectives, and take recommendations on policy, outreach, and communication styles from members of the black community. 

What inspires you to keep doing the work you do?

Hearing positive stories about how our work is making a difference. My grandmother passed away about 10 years ago and I know the pain my mom still carries about the way she died. Whenever someone shares with me a personal story regarding a loved one’s death that was a positive story, it gives me hope. When a loved one dies, grief is to be expected, but it’s possible to avoid confusion, being overwhelmed, fighting amongst loved ones, and depression.

What's the bravest thing you've ever done?

I think anytime I get out of my comfort zone is being brave. I’ve moved a lot and had to say goodbye and restart my community, starting new jobs and believing I have what it takes to be successful in new roles, running my first marathon, traveling alone, etc. But maybe the bravest thing I did was say yes when my now husband wanted to move cross country with me and asked me to marry him after 3 months of dating, but we’ve been together for 15 years so it worked out ;)

What's the best advice you've ever received?

I used to work for a Member of Congress who once said it’s a marathon, not a sprint, and as a marathon runner this really resonated with me. I think of this often and need to remind myself that changes are often incremental, roadblocks happen, self-care is necessary, but eventually we accomplish something big. 

How long have you been a member of the Black Health Network, and what drew you to CBHN? 

I have been a member for almost a year! I was initially invited to join, and after researching the organization’s mission of connecting like-minded individuals committed to enhancing the lives of Black folks in California, I felt even more motivated to join.

What is your current profession? 

Clinical Psychotherapist | Mental Health & Equity Consultant | Mindset & Well-Being Coach

From your perspective, what barriers exist in achieving health equity for Black Californians? 

In my professional opinion, achieving health equity for Black Californians is hindered by several barriers, particularly in the realm of mental health. The most prominent obstacle is the lack of culturally trained mental health professionals who can provide care that reflects the lived experiences, identities, and historical contexts of Black folks. This gap often leads to misdiagnosis and mistrust of the mental health. Systemic economic disparities ( income inequality, high unemployment rates, and limited access to affordable housing) exacerbate mental health challenges by creating chronic stress.  Many Black communities reside in healthcare deserts, where quality services are scarce and out-of-pocket costs are prevent folks from assessing care. Without targeted investment in culturally responsive care and policies that address these structural inequities, true health equity for Black Californians will remain out of reach. 

Both in your work and with CBHN, how have you been able to prioritize the health of Black Californians? 

Through the Compton Wellness Collective, I prioritize the health of Black Californians by providing accessible, culturally responsive mental health services and wellness programs that address disparities in care. We offer access to individual therapy, support groups, and community workshops designed to meet the unique needs of Black community members, ensuring they receive quality, trauma-informed support. Being a part of the CBHN network, allows us to remain informed about current issues and so that we can collectively address systemic barriers. The overall goal is to ensure that Black Californians—regardless of background or circumstance—have access to the care and resources needed to thrive.

What inspires you to keep doing the work you do? 

I am inspired by the urgent need for mental health resources in my community and the opportunity to break intergenerational cycles of maladaptive coping. Seeing firsthand the impact of systemic inequities, I’m driven to ensure that Black and Latine community members have access to the tools and support they need to make healthier decisions for themselves and their families. Providing culturally relevant, trauma-informed care not only helps individuals heal but also promotes positive change in how our community members respond to each other. Every person empowered to prioritize their well-being is a step toward disrupting harmful patterns and building a stronger, healthier community for future generations.

What's the bravest thing you've ever done?

The bravest work I have done is continuing to serve my community after losing my son, Xavier, to gun violence just 12 days after his 19th birthday. Despite this unimaginable loss, I lead grief groups, workshops, and community wellness events to support others...with a heavy heart. Despite my grief, I was still able to help, support and guide, while still allowing myself space to process the loss of my Son.

What's the best advice you've ever received?

Only give what you have capacity to give. If you only have 40% give 40%, if you only have 75% then give 75%. Being honest with yourself will prevent you from pouring too much out of your cup.

Instagram: @compton_wellness_collective

Event page: bit.ly/cwceventpage

How long have you been a member of the Black Health Network and what drew you to CBHN?

1yr 

What is your current profession? 

CEO and founder of As You Are Non-Profit Called To Do His Work.

From your perspective, what barriers exist in current profession and achieving health equity for Black Californians?

Achieving health equity for Black Californians is hindered by several significant barriers. One of the primary challenges is access to care. Many Black communities struggle to obtain quality healthcare services due to geographic locations that lack adequate facilities, as well as transportation issues. Additionally, there is often a limited availability of healthcare providers who understand the cultural needs of these communities, further complicating access. Economic disparities also play a crucial role in health outcomes. Higher rates of poverty and unemployment in Black communities can severely limit access to preventive care and healthy food options. When individuals are economically disadvantaged, they may prioritize immediate needs over long-term health, leading to poorer health outcomes overall. Discrimination and bias within the healthcare system exacerbate these challenges. Systemic racism and implicit bias can result in mistrust, misdiagnosis, and inadequate treatment for Black individuals. This mistrust can discourage people from seeking care, perpetuating a cycle of health inequity.

Moreover, the lack of culturally relevant health education contributes to the problem. Many individuals in these communities may not be fully aware of the resources available to them, preventive measures they can take, or the health conditions that disproportionately affect them. This gap in knowledge can hinder proactive health management. Social determinants of health, such as housing instability, food insecurity, and limited educational opportunities, further contribute to health disparities. These factors can significantly impact overall well-being and access to necessary healthcare services. Finally, mental health stigma poses a substantial barrier. Cultural perceptions surrounding mental health can prevent individuals from seeking necessary care and support, exacerbating existing health issues. Addressing these barriers requires a multifaceted approach, including policy changes, community engagement, and increased investment in culturally competent healthcare services. By tackling these issues holistically, we can work towards achieving health equity for Black Californians.

Both in your work and with CBHN, how have you been able to prioritize the health of Back Californians?

In both my work and with the California Black Health Network, I prioritize the health of Black Californians through several key strategies. First, I actively engage with community members to understand their unique health needs and challenges, ensuring their experiences are reflected in program development. I advocate for policies that promote health equity and address systemic barriers, including increased funding for healthcare services tailored to Black communities. Providing culturally relevant education is also essential, as it helps ensure that health information resonates with these populations and addresses specific concerns. Additionally, I focus on building partnerships with local organizations, healthcare providers, and stakeholders to create a unified approach to improving health outcomes. Promoting preventive health measures, screenings, and wellness programs is vital in reducing the incidence of chronic diseases. Finally, I work to address mental health stigma and enhance access to mental health resources, recognizing the importance of holistic well-being. Through these strategies, I aim to create a supportive environment that prioritizes the health and well-being of Black Californians, ultimately working towards greater health equity.

What inspires you to keep doing the work you do?

The belief in the transformative power of community support and advocacy. Seeing the positive changes in individuals lives and knowing that my efforts contribute to a safer, more supportive environment fuels my passion. Additionally, the stories of resilience from those I serve remind me of the importance of compassion and dedication. It's a privilege to help others find their strength and navigate their journeys toward healing and empowerment.

What's the bravest thing you've ever done?

The bravest thing I have done is embracing vulnerability and standing up for those who feel voiceless. Launching As You Are Non-Profit Called To Do His Work took immense courage, as it meant confronting difficult truths about domestic violence and advocating for change in my community. By sharing my own experiences and supporting others, I've faced fears and challenges head-on. This journey has taught me that true bravery lies in the willingness to take risks for the sake of others, fostering hope and resilience in the face of adversity.

What's the best advice you've ever received?

The best advice that I have received is to listen more than you speak. This simple yet profound guidance has taught me the importance of truly understanding others, especially those I aim to help. By listening, I can better empathize with their experiences and needs, allowing me to provide more effective support and meaningful solutions. It's a reminder that every person has a story worth hearing, and that understanding is the foundation of compassion and impactful advocacy.

How long have you been a member of the Black Health Network, and what drew you to CBHN? 

I have been a member of the CBHN since 2023. In 2022, we were invited to table with CBHN's LIVE IT UP, Long Beach! health fair. We were introduced to CBHN through our association with the Black Health Equity Collaborative (BHEC), which we are one of the founding members.

What is your current profession? 

Officially, I am a retired Sr. Analyst from the City of Los Angeles, having worked in many capacities that serve the residents of the city. Since 2018, I have served as the President and Executive Director of the Clarissa Manuel Foundation (CMF).

From your perspective, what barriers exist in achieving health equity for Black Californians?

Whereas many orgs and agencies work in silos focusing on one area or another of health, the CMF believes in using a holistic approach to bring the community information, tools, and resources using a broad network of community partners to help the community help itself to be healthier. By taking a holistic approach, we seek to connect the dots of where the community is suffering disparities and to fill the gaps through connection and collaboration with our networks. We believe we are stronger and more effective working together.

Both in your work and with CBHN, how have you been able to prioritize the health of Black Californians? 

The CMF was created as a conduit to connect the African American and BIPOC communities with resources to increase wellness in the community. CBHN provides another conduit in the fabric of our network to connect the community to services and information, while also allowing CMF to connect to others who are working to better the health and wellbeing of the community as well.

What inspires you to keep doing the work you do?

I have always been inspired by the work of philanthropists large and small and especially the activists that selflessly gave their lives to bring change and make life better for the people of the Black diaspora. People like Fannie Lou Hamer, Yvonne Braithwaite-Burke, and Maxine Waters are always foremost in my mind knowing I have benefitted immensely from their activism.

What's the bravest thing you've ever done?

I think the bravest thing I ever did was to seek my own path as a teenager and get on a bus alone leaving everything and everyone to educate myself and go for my dreams. Only one person knew I was leaving. At that person’s urging, I let my family know I was leaving 5 days before I left.

What's the best advice you've ever received?

Always take the high road. It usually looks like the hardest choice but will always provide you with the greatest results.

Question missing from this list: What does your future life look like?

Learning is a lifetime endeavor. I plan to continue my education and expand my outreach to bring resources to people in need.

How long have you been a member of the Black Health Network, and what drew you to CBHN? 

We are approaching our first year with CBHN! At Donor Network West, we recognize the unique opportunity we have in supporting our mutual goals of improving health and health equity for the diverse community we serve.  I am inspired by and regularly share CBHN’s educational webinar offerings and information with our network of volunteers, partners, and employees.

What is your current profession? 

President and CEO at Donor Network West, a federally designated nonprofit 501(c)3 Organ Procurement Organization.  Our mission is to save and heal lives through organ and tissue donation for transplantation and research.

From your perspective, what barriers exist in achieving health equity for Black Californians? 

Representation in medical and health policy, culturally competent healthcare workers, having seats at the decision-making tables, challenges in managing chronic diseases, healthcare deserts, and the historical context of systemic racism and its long-term impact on health and well-being are several barriers to achieving health equity for Black Californians.

Both in your work and with CBHN, how have you been able to prioritize the health of Black Californians? 

As an organization, Donor Network West serves a diverse, multicultural population – over 14 million people in northern California and northern Nevada in our service area. There are more than 100,000 people waiting for a lifesaving organ transplant in the U.S., with 20,000 living in California and more than 600 in Nevada. Our service area is comprised of 60% BIPOC/Non-White, and the awareness and education we provide, specifically in our Community team outreach,  has a strong focus on dispelling myths about organ donation and transplantation, which can negatively impact and influence health decisions. Over the past five years, we are proud to have increased organ donation authorization rates (those who have said “yes” to organ donation) by 77% in the Black community. In raising awareness of the critical need of lifesaving organs, we partner with the Golden State Warriors to bring Black, pediatric patients residing throughout Northern California with a connection to donation and transplantation courtside next to the players and coaches during African American Heritage Night. I stated in the CBHN Health4Life Series: Let’s Celebrate Life this past April, our organization represents and mirrors the community we serve, in both perception and appearance. Partnering with organizations like CBHN allows us to continue advocating for people waiting for a lifesaving organ, while at the same time, offering hope and creating lasting legacies for families who have lost loved ones.

What inspires you to keep doing the work you do? 

Meeting individuals who have been able to live life fulfillments by receiving a second chance at life through organ transplantation is truly moving. Their immense appreciation for their donors is beyond words, but it’s clear that they live their lives full of gratitude and with a deep desire to share their personal stories of triumph. They always acknowledge the immeasurable gift of life they received. I am also inspired by the incredible work of our dedicated staff who tirelessly honor this gift of life through organ donation. With continuous medical advancements and research, we are expanding the possibilities in transplantation, and being part of this work to improve health outcomes is both inspiring and a true privilege. I am just returning from attending the Transplant Games of America where we can have the rewarding experience of the recipients returning to doing the things they love.

What's the bravest thing you've ever done?

With my fear of heights, driving up the Mount Diablo summit was no easy feat. But I did it!

What's the best advice you've ever received?

Take the time to build relationships. Be intentional, not transactional.

I have been a member of the CBHN for two years and I joined just after moving to California and beginning my role as Vice Chair for Research and Professor at the Keck School of Medicine of USC in the Department of Population and Public Health Sciences. I also serve as Associate Director for Cancer Equity at the USC Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center in Los Angeles, and I am the Director of the USC Choices Lab where we focus on community health outcomes, innovation, impact, and equity studies.

I was drawn to join the CBHN because we have a shared mission to address health disparities. For the last 25 years, I have been conducting research examining the various gaps in access to health care, high-quality health care, and the disparities in cancer mortality among different populations. The BHN focuses on health education, health policy, and connecting change makers and advocates for Black Californians. My research team and I are focused on the same goals!

As a health equity researcher, I have seen a variety of barriers to equal healthcare, across the entire care spectrum. There is a long history of communities of color living under separate and unequal systems in the U.S. We have documented, in our research, the social determinants of health, such as access to safe housing and transportation, financial strain, neighborhood safety, distance to green spaces among others, that are consistently difference for minority populations as compared to predominately white communities.

In our research, we seek to document inequity and to develop and test interventions that can make a difference in the health of Black Californians. A lot of health research focuses on exposing the causes of illness or aims to understand the mechanics of disease. In our population-level work, we have established and documented the disparities in health among Black and African American citizens, and now we are focused on action. For instance, at the cancer center, our outreach team created culturally tailored communications on cancer screening guidelines and clinical trials just for African Americans. We also are launching a community health navigation program, under our new Ralph Lauren Center for Cancer Prevention. The work of our navigators will be focused on addressing social barriers to cancer screening and treatment, as we aim to reduce disparities in mortality for Black Californians.

What inspires me to do this work in health equity is seeing the differences in survival for Black and white citizens with cancer. Just look at prostate cancer, where the rate of survival for Black men is nearly half that of white men. The same is true for breast cancer, where Black women have a 40% lower survival rate. The rates of being diagnosed with cancer are not so different, but the rates of survival are glaringly different and so I am inspired to work toward solutions wherever I can move the needle in this area.

The bravest thing I’ve ever done was probably to move my life and my whole family to California from South Carolina! I have two teenage sons and it was a big change for all of us, but now that we are putting down roots here, I think it was all worth the challenge and stress.

The best advice I ever received was to focus on addressing the drivers that have the biggest impact on minority health and health disparities.  This has been my north star throughout my career and guided my professional activities and focal areas.

I’m excited to partner with CBHN on health equity in California!

How long have you been a member of the Black Health Network, and what drew you to CBHN? 

I have been a member of the CA Black Health Network for a year. While working in the space of Health Equity in OC, I was encouraged by the rich body of work from the Black Health Network. After attending a couple webinars, it was an easy decision to join.

What is your current profession? 

I am blessed to be the Executive Director of Operations at Second Baptist Church and HEAAL (Health Equity for African American’s League. In addition to managing operations at the oldest Black Church in Orange County, I am responsible for leading community engagement efforts.

From your perspective, what barriers exist in achieving health equity for Black Californians? 

I see two barriers. The first is the systemic racism that has permeated our health system has some people blind to the issues and others bury their heads in the sand rather that speaking up. We want to ensure that the steps that can be taken are acted upon and not placated to. The other barrier is a lack of self-empowerment. Fortunately, I see more Black people taking charge of their health, incorporating healthy habits, exploring holistic resources that have served our communities for 1,000’s of years and monitoring critical health markers such as blood pressure and A1C.

Both in your work and with CBHN, how have you been able to prioritize the health of Black Californians? 

We conducted the 1^st  statistically significant survey that was created by Blacks, administered to Blacks who live, work, and /or worship in Orange County to uncover the social determinants of health affecting us. The results concluded that we need:1. Access to culturally sensitive mental health care providers 2. Access to affordable Healthcare and Nutrition 3. Affordable Housing and 4. Addressing discrimination in our Healthcare system.

What inspires you to keep doing the work you do? 

The intrinsic value of knowing we are making Orange County a healthier place for Blacks to thrive is my greatest reward. There are some committed providers who not only want to hear what we have to say but make meaningful changes in the way they service our population.

What's the bravest thing you've ever done? 

The bravest thing in this work I’ve done is stand before the board of supervisors and advocate that they approve a resolution declaring racism as a public health crisis in Orange County. Speaking truth to power in the midst of racist community members yelling in the chamber.

What's the best advice you've ever received? 

There is an understanding amongst policy makers that “If you are not in the data, you don’t exist”. Many reports from health agencies somehow don’t have data on Black people in their reports. They claim we don’t participate in surveys and assume we don’t have issues. Our survey provided them with the empirical quantitative and qualitative data to address this multi-pronged issue of inequities in underserved communities and how they hinder us from thriving.

Question missing from this list: 

Remember that our ancestors have fought the same fight and are cheering us on to continue. We can’t give up and remember who is on our side. This is social justice work and the church belongs in the forefront as a trusted voice who advocates for justice and equity.

Health Equity for African Americans League (HEAAL)  in 2023 identified mental health problems as the most important health problem in Blacks/African/African American communities in Orange County. The African American Alliance Fund (AAAF) has commissioned CFHI to do more work towards understanding the top mental health problems confronting Blacks/Africans/African Americans. Our goal is to capture the top health and mental health priorities of Blacks/Africans/African Americans in your community. To make this work statistically significant, we want to hear from you. 

The survey will take less than 10 minutes to complete. The survey is completely anonymous and your responses will not be linked to you or your email (even if it shows your email). Please complete the entire form as soon as possible. If you have any questions, please reach out to us at cfhi@expertmanagers.org or ooleribe@cfhealthinitiative.org.  

Click HERE to complete the survey. If this fails, please copy and paste the URL: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScRerXEB8Tybx_tvK6W1UKltKlikbeF3gMbqVG9RnJ-kpZSBQ/viewform?vc=0&c=0&w=1&flr=0&usp=mail_form_link to complete the survey.

How long have you been a member of the Black Health Network, and what drew you to CBHN?

I started my membership in 2023 when my dear friend Antoinette Manuel did a workshop with CBHN. It was my first time of hearing about the organization and I really felt motivated to be a part of the change.

What is your current profession? 

I work for a company called Enriching Lives. We are local non-profit Family Home Agency that helps individuals with disabilities find, not just a living option, but a place they can call home. You can look at it like foster care but for adults with disabilities. I am the Social Work Supervisor for our Sacramento Office. We are always looking for people in the community who would like to help support an individual in their home. We pay a tax-free monthly stipend to the provider. It’s a wonderful way to work from home, help others, and make extra income. This August will be my 8^th year with the company. It is truly a blessing to have found a work environment that aligns with my personal values and morals. I feel there is no better way to spend the majority of my time to service those who are in need of a family environment.

From your perspective, what barriers exist in achieving health equity for Black Californians? 

When I was younger, I had no knowledge of the barriers that I would face in the health care system. I thought what I was experiencing was normal, and our health care system was just really flawed for everyone. I joined a Facebook group for black women dealing with cycle challenges and starting realizing it was not just the system that was flawed but there is evidence-based studies that showed the lack of care black women receive from the medical field. I started educating myself on how to be a self-advocate, how to identify implicit bias of others through words and action, and how to gain the confidence to drop that doctor and research for a new one. Once I gained this knowledge, I was able to act on it, and my experience with the medical field greatly changed. I think for our community to have better health equity, they need to be armed with the education and resources to advocate for themselves. Knowing is half the battle for our younger generation. Equipping them with the tools to navigate the medical field should be a priority of our community.

Both in your work and with CBHN, how have you been able to prioritize the health of Black Californians? 

My goal as a supervisor is to make sure all individuals are receiving quality health care and their health goals are being achieved. Communication is key to arming our individuals with the tools they need to express how they are feeling and what they would like done. I do volunteer work for a non-profit called Sisterbees, working with black and brown girls ages 12-24. We have made self-care and health a main focus for the young ladies to better educate them on the importance of their health.

What inspires you to keep doing the work you do?

Seeing our individuals thriving and succeeding in life.

What's the bravest thing you've ever done?

Taking on the journey of IVF. I have been in this journey since 2021 and have come across several women who have stopped or never even started because of how treacherous the journey can be. I know God has placed it in my heart to be a mom, it’s in scripture to be fruitful and multiply, and I know this journey was laid out for me to be a testimony. As long as I have the funds to keep going, trust and believe I will keep going, leaning on God’s promise!

What's the best advice you've ever received?

What they vandalize HE (God) will testify. Do not worry about what others are saying and doing. Not everyone will be able to be around you and your energy, especially if you vibrate high. You keep going, staying true to who you are and God will remove those who are against you. You never have to come out of character, stay true to yourself and all the rest will align. Secondly, Take up space, Sis!! Many times, people say “black women are so extra” so we may feel the need to shrink ourselves down around other people outside our culture. Lightening our voice tone, being delicate with our words, and many more. If you were invited into the space, join it as your authentic self.

If people want to become a family home provider with Enriching Lives, how do they get started:

Please go on our website at enrichinglives.net and find the office closest to you; ask to speak to the certification specialist or someone who can help you become certified.