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

I have been a member for roughly two years. I was drawn to CBHN’s dedication to serving the Black community and its efforts to educate and inform the community about policy agendas that impact health equity for Black Californians.

What is your current profession?

Community Research in Public Health and Social Work. As the Co-director of AAAE and Center Coordinator for CEHDR, I oversee programs/research projects, senior advisory committee, interns, PhD students, community partnerships, fundraising, grant management, professional trainings, public policy, advocacy, and direct practice through the AAAE online help center, as well as the day-to-day operations of the CEHDR.

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

A significant barrier is the lack of accountability measures for individuals in leadership positions whose practices continue to hinder progress.

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

I prioritize health equity through Justice-Oriented Community-Based Participatory Action Research, which advances social and environmental justice by tackling health inequities caused by environmental racism, harmful exposures, and social determinants of health. My work educates, collaborates, and advocates for healthier, more equitable communities through our programs and research projects powered by intentional and meaningful community partnerships such as CBHN.

What inspires you to keep doing the work you do?

I am inspired by the goal of leaving a legacy that will continue to grow and impact the community well beyond my own work.

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

I designed and operated a state-of-the-art facility for people living with Alzheimer’s and related dementias in the heart of the hood—South Los Angeles, named Mel’s Memory Care in honor of my dad, Melvin Gaines. This was one of the first state-licensed Residential Care Facilities for the Elderly (RCFE) with a full Dementia Plan of Operation in South Los Angeles.

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

"Keep your eye on the prize and let your work speak for itself." I also live by the 5 Ps (Proper Preparation Prevents Poor Performance) and the 3 Ps (Pause, Pivot, Proceed).