L I V E
H E A L T H Y
D E K A L B
C O A L I T I O N
2018 Annual
Partners Guide
2018 LHD Annual Partners Guide
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Table of Contents Introduction 4 Member Organizations
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About the Live Healthy DeKalb Coalition
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Member Profile
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Member Highlights
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Beulah Community Family Life Center
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BRIMI Foundation, Inc.
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Decatur Farmers Market
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DeKalb County Board of Health
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Diabetes Association of Atlanta
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Diabetes You Can Win Foundation, Inc.
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Emory University Rollins School of Public Health Region IV Public Health Training Center
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Emory University Urban Health Initiative
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Great Day Family Connections
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Kelley Chapel Empowerment Center & Community Outreach Ministry
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Results Kids Club
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Royal Adult Day Services
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Ruby A. Neeson Diabetes Awareness Foundation, Inc.
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Tabitha’s House, Inc.
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University of Georgia DeKalb County Cooperative Extension
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Women Watch Afrika, Inc.
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Improving Health through Partnerships
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Introduction Welcome to the Live Healthy DeKalb coalition’s 2018 Annual Partners Guide! Live Healthy DeKalb is so excited to showcase organizations that are addressing health disparities in DeKalb County. These profiles provide insight on health challenges and what each organization is doing to combat them. The Live Healthy DeKalb coalition encourages you to get involved so that you can help protect, promote and improve the health of those who work, live and play in DeKalb County.
Member Organizations Aniz, Inc.
Great Day Family Connections
Antioch AME Church
Guide, Inc.
Beulah Community Family Life Center
Healing Hearts of Families USA Ministries, Inc.
BRIMI Foundation, Inc.
Kelley Chapel Empowerment Center & Community Outreach Ministry
Center for Pan Asian Community Services City of Clarkston Community Farmers Markets The Council on Alcohol and Drugs Decatur Farmers Market DeKalb County Board of Health DeKalb County Office of Youth Services DeKalb County Public Library DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office Diabetes Association of Atlanta Diabetes Community Action Coalition Diabetes You Can Win Foundation, Inc. Emory University Rollins School of Public Health
Kids’-Doc-On-Wheels Oasis for Life Wellness Pea Pod Nutrition and Lactation Support Physicians’ Care Clinic Project Clean Resident Services Corporation Results Kids Club Royal Adult Day Services RSA Deasil Advisors Ruby A. Neeson Diabetes Awareness Foundation, Inc. Sagittal Soul Health and Fitness Tabitha’s House, Inc.
Region IV Public Health Training Center
University of Georgia DeKalb County Cooperative Extension
Emory University Urban Health Initiative
Women Watch Afrika, Inc.
Georgians Against Smoking Pollution
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About the Live Healthy 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. 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.
What We Do The LHD: Hosts meetings and increases the accessibility of health services to network and share information related to reducing health disparities. Creates a presence in the community by providing awareness, outreach and education. Networks and builds relationships with other organizations.
To increase knowledge of community issues.
Stays current on issues and resources in our community.
To expand partnerships in the community.
Promotes and supports member agencies’ activities.
To reduce health disparities and increase the accessibility of health services.
Provides professional development workshops.
Who We Are LHD is a group of diverse agencies and residents that represent all segments in DeKalb County. Members include: County agencies and cities, such as the City of Clarkston.
Member Benefits and Expectations The benefits of being a LHD member are: Networking and collaborating with fellow members.
Non-profit and voluntary groups such as the Center for Pan Asian Community Services and Georgians Against Smoking Pollution.
Having access to DeKalb County data.
Entities such as hospitals, insurance companies, universities and outpatient health care providers.
Sharing information and learning about members’ events and activities.
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.
2010: Partnered with the Safe Routes to School
An individual who is a LHD member is expected to: Participate in coalition meetings and activities.
2009: Collaborated with the then-Georgia
Share information about their organization’s activities. An organization that is a 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 2017: Worked with the DeKalb County Board
of Health to formalize the 2018 Mobilizing for Action through Planning and Partnerships process, a community-driven strategic planning method for improving community health. 2015-2016: Worked with the Board of Health
to apply for accreditation from the Public Health Accreditation Board; accreditation was awarded in March 2016.
program to increase the number and frequency of children walking or biking to school. Department of Human Resources’ Health Promotion Initiative to develop the Live Healthy in Faith toolkit, which assists faith-based organizations in implementing policy, systems and environmental changes; trained over 250 partners. 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 passage of a clean
indoor air ordinance by the DeKalb County Board of Commissioners. 2006: Convened the DeKalb Healthy Business
Council to support wellness professionals through offering continuing education, disseminating best practices and providing networking opportunities. 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 that was developed by the National Association of County and City Health Officials and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The Board of Health was one of the first local public health agencies in the country to pilot this model.
2014: Conducted, in collaboration with several
community partners, a series of community health education presentations. Participated in a campaign to raise awareness about smoking and e-cigarettes among youth during Kick Butts Day and Red Ribbon Week. 2013: Assisted the Board of Health in launching
the Go Green initiative.
2012: Co-sponsored, along with Board of
Health’s Steps to a Healthier DeKalb initiative, the DeKalb County School District’s Healthy Schools Award to recognize programs and policies that promote a healthy school environment. 2018 LHD Annual Partners Guide
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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 fax it to 404-294-3842. Name: ______________________________________________________________________________________________ Title (if applicable): ___________________________________________________________________________________ Organization (if applicable): ____________________________________________________________________________ Address: ____________________________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________________ City:
____________________________ State: __________
ZIP:_______________________________
Telephone: _____________________________________________________________________________________ Email:
_____________________________________________________________________________________
Website (if applicable):
______________________________________________________________________________
Membership type:_________ Individual _________ Organization Areas of interest: _________
Nutrition
_________
Physical activity
_________ Health equity _________ Recycling/Go Green
_________
Tobacco use prevention
_________
Chronic disease
_________
Injury and violence prevention
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Men’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 members’ contributions and expectations. Name (print):
______________________________________________________________________________________
Signature: _____________________________________________________________________________________ Date:
____________________________________________________________________________________
Member Highlights
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Beulah Community Family Life Center The Beulah Community Family Life Center is a ministry of Beulah Baptist Church, pastored by Reverend Jerry D. Black. It is our 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 supports the community of Decatur by offering programs and services to benefit the mind, body and spirit of our members, guests and community. We accomplish this through collaborations with community members and corporate partners. The Beulah Community Family Life Center offers a wellness program, a holistic approach to help you become a healthier, more active individual. The program is designed to help you focus on making successful, longterm lifestyle changes aimed at improving your health. The wellness program offers: • Personal trainers: Benefit from a customized workout program.
Beulah Community Family Life Center
Nutrition education: Learn about making healthier food choices. Specialty classes: Participate in classes such as yoga and our Turbo Circuit trainer series. And much, much more ....
The center is a 69,000-square-foot, multi-purpose facility. Members can access a full range of fitness programs. You can enjoy group exercise, fitness-tomusic, yoga or Zumba classes. Or, you may simply want to go at your own pace on our state-of-the-art cardio equipment. Either way, our fully-equipped facility and programs can help you attain your conditioning goals. The center has locker rooms that are equipped with showers and restrooms. Visit our center and enjoy our: • Indoor track: You can get your miles in without having to worry about the weather. Twelve times around in the comfort of a controlled environment equals one mile. •
Indoor heated pool: The pool is heated and chlorine-free. It uses a saline filtration system that makes using it a joy. Use the pool for water aerobics, lap swimming, pool parties or just for relaxing after a tough workout.
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Fitness center: Need a workout to fine tune those muscles? The fitness center can meet the most demanding needs. It has the latest equipment for cardio or muscle toning. Watch TV while using the treadmill or partner with another member to reach your goal of a healthy body.
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Aerobics room: This room is equipped with a padded floor and mirrors to facilitate group activities such as aerobics, yoga, Pilates and line dancing.
For more information, visit us at www. beulahbaptist.org/flc or visit the Beulah Community Family Life Center at 2340 Clifton Springs Road in Decatur. 2018 LHD Annual Partners Guide
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BRIMI Foundation, Inc. In a world where women of all ages are challenged with so many unrealistic ideas of who they should be, it is important that each of us learns to define beauty in our own terms. The BRIMI Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization created to inspire, encourage, honor and support women at every stage of life and to help them define beauty in their own image. The acronym “BRIMI” stands for Beauty Resides in My Image. BRIMI believes that we are each beautiful as we were created. When we look in the mirror, the reflection reveals beauty. But, too often, we choose to see ourselves with flaws instead of embracing the beautiful uniqueness of our features. BRIMI’s mission is to enhance the vision that women have of their image. We focus on young women ages 9 to 17 because we believe this age group is having an “image crisis” when trying to identify who they are. We promote a concept that reinforces the essence of real beauty, which lies within who we are. The influences of society and social media play a major role in the issues girls go through today, such as low self-esteem, depression, alcohol and drug abuse, teen pregnancy, eating disorders, sex trafficking and suicide. These issues can derive from a person feeling unworthy, not fitting in or not loving who they see. The foundation builds upon the self-esteem and self-worth of our young women so they see themselves as the beautiful people they are and know that their circumstances don’t dictate their worth.
BRIMI Foundation, Inc.
BRIMI sponsors the following programs to help young women see themselves, acknowledge themselves, love themselves and understand that their image is beautiful:
and team members, community leaders and motivational speakers. The program involves: • 2- to 3-hour sessions. yy Topics such as effective communication skills, health and beauty tips, self-esteem building, time management skills and navigating relationships. yy Various locations.
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Mirror, It’s ME This one-hour program is about image awareness. We want girls to take back the power to love who they see in the mirror. This message inspires girls to understand what “beauty resides in my image” means.
The community can help support our young ladies by encouraging the participants in our programs, donating to our organization and sponsoring our programs. If you have a girls’ group that would benefit from our message, please contact BRIMI Foundation at (404) 334-7144.
BFIT This program promotes general health and wellness through physical fitness. It addresses issues of body image, as well as the benefits of maintaining a strong, healthy body. It also provides opportunities for team building, leadership and community activism. The program involves: • 1 to 1.5 hours of fitness training on a weekly basis. yy Activities like Zumba, yoga, strength training, agility training and sports, such as soccer and softball. yy Guidance from certified trainers/instructors or local sports teams. yy Indoor and outdoor locations.
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B-Vocal This program provides a platform for girls to communicate their thoughts, feelings and ideas. It addresses issues pertinent to young people today through guided discussions, panel discussions and forums between participants 2018 LHD Annual Partners Guide
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Decatur Farmers Market Farmers markets are becoming a critical ingredient of our nation’s economy, food systems and communities. Connecting rural areas to urban ones, farmers to consumers and fresh ingredients to our diets, farmers markets are developing into economic and community centerpieces in cities and towns across the U.S. Beyond the economic and business benefits, farmers markets give communities access to fresh, healthy foods, especially in areas where shopping options may be limited. What began as a business necessity for many small farmers has evolved into a social venue for entire communities, with many patrons viewing a trip to the Saturday morning market as the start of their weekend The Decatur Farmers Market provides fresh produce, prepared foods and crafts on a weekly basis to the Decatur community. Join us on the front lawn of First Baptist Church of Decatur (308 Clairemont Ave., Decatur) every Wednesday from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. (between April 11 and December 19, except November 21) and every Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. (between April 14 and December 15). The Decatur Farmers Market is part of the nonprofit organization Community Farmers Markets, whose mission is to develop a local food infrastructure for longterm sustainability and meaningful community impact. The purpose is to preserve, root and grow a diverse local
Decatur Farmers Market
food culture by maintaining an authentic space for all people to share community, fair food and healthy lifestyles while providing a sustainable living for producers who steward the earth. Leaders in Atlanta’s local food movement founded Community Farmers Markets in 2011 to meet the demand for more efficiently managed, communitybased, sustainable farmers markets. These stakeholders included farmers and others who worked for a vibrant local food system and who have special interests, talents or resources to build a stronger local food movement. The organization serves as an umbrella organization with communitylevel “market community groups,” while maintaining the identity and culture of each market. It is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Community Farmers Markets has a unique, threepart approach to food access: distribution of food at markets, education about food through educational programming and financial incentives to purchase produce. These incentives are through the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (known as “SNAP” and formerly known as “Food Stamps”) and My Market programs. Community Farmers Markets leverages strong relationships with mission-critical partners in our communities and the city at large to carry out programs. Our markets and models have had an extensive impact on the local food system in Atlanta. Our founding market, the East Atlanta Village Farmers Market, was the first Georgia market to accept Food Stamps and to pilot Wholesome Wave, Georgia’s SNAP double-value program. In 2015, we served over 160,000 shoppers and over 120 vendors at six weekly markets and provided over $80,000 in doubled SNAP benefits to the Atlanta community. We envision a future in which Atlanta and Decatur will be home to a diverse, interconnected food system that promotes healthy food, sustainable ecosystems and living wage working conditions. We are a leader in this system, leveraging the power of communities by providing resources, educational
programs and sustainable modes of food distribution for farmers, producers, chefs and consumers. For more information go to https://cfmatl.org. 2018 LHD Annual Partners Guide
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DeKalb County Board of Health Founded in 1921 and headquartered 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 populationbased 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 welltrained workforce that provides superior customer service. The Board of Health’s services include: • 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.
DeKalb County Board of Health
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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.
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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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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 motels.
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Health promotion: community health education and the prevention of chronic diseases, injuries and tobacco use.
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Emergency preparedness: public health response and community awareness, preparedness and training.
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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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Certificates for births and deaths in Georgia.
In 2016, the Board of Health was accredited by the Public Health Accreditation Board. For more information on the DeKalb County Board of Health, visit www.dekalbhealth.net or call (404) 294-3700.
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Diabetes Association of Atlanta The Diabetes Association of Atlanta, founded in 1952, has evolved to become a full-service agency committed to alleviating the medical, financial and psychological impacts that diabetes has on individuals and their families. The organization works with various nonprofit community organizations, local health centers, places of worship and senior centers, as well as corporations. We screen and educate over 5,000 individuals annually. Our current service area is Butts, Cherokee, Clayton, Cobb, Coweta, DeKalb, Douglas, Fayette, Fulton, Gwinnett, Henry, Paulding and Rockdale counties. We are expanding our services to more rural counties. The association provides the following services: • Diabetes education The education program promotes behavior change and risk reduction among highrisk youth and adults. For those wanting to prevent diabetes, it is important to understand one’s risk factors and the lifestyle changes that can be made to prevent or delay the onset of type 2 diabetes. For those living with diabetes, diabetes self-management education is proven to reduce blood sugar (glucose) levels and promote positive lifestyles.
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Early Detection/Screening Early detection is a screening process that identifies individuals who are at risk of developing diabetes. It is also the key to early
diagnosis and treatment that can prevent or delay life-threatening complications. The association provides trained staff that specializes in glucose monitoring and performs diabetes screenings throughout the community. •
Medical Assistance The medical assistance program offers assistance to people who are unable to afford the high cost of diabetes health care. The goal is to help them take better care of themselves by offering health education and medical supplies.
The Diabetes Association of Atlanta is always looking for ways to connect with the community to ensure that our services are reaching those who need them most. If your organization is hosting a health- or diabetesrelated event, please contact us at (404) 527-7150 or visit www.diabetesatlanta.org.
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Diabetes You Can Win Foundation, Inc. Georgia is in the nation’s “diabetes belt.” According to the American Diabetes Association, there are currently 1,121,495 people in Georgia who have diabetes. Of these, about 241,000 do not even know that they have it. In addition, there are 2,599,000 people in Georgia with prediabetes. It is estimated that 53,000 Georgians are diagnosed with diabetes each year (American Diabetes Association, n.d.).
The Diabetes You Can Win Foundation, Inc., 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 to underserved communities and the uninsured. The founder of the foundation, Lisa Graham, is a registered nurse and a certified diabetes educator. Lisa often says, “We are losing a fight with diabetes that we can win,” hence the name of the organization. Lisa truly believes if people get the education that they need and the tools to fight diabetes that “They Can Win” and live a long life with diabetes and prevent diabetes in others. Most people who live in underserved areas or who are uninsured do not have access to comprehensive diabetes education with a certified educator. Comprehensive education is group or individualized education that meets
Diabetes You Can Win Foundation, Inc.
the needs of the individual. We know education goes beyond a single handout and can improve overall health. We believe “When people know better, they will do better.” The Diabetes You Can Win Foundation organizes community events to provide free blood sugar checks and health and nutrition education to the public. In past two years, the foundation has hosted an annual event in conjunction with the American Diabetes Association’s Diabetes Alert Day. It encourages individuals to take a simple test to see if they are at risk for diabetes. The Diabetes You Can Win Foundation has a host of a wonderful staff and volunteers who have a heart for people with diabetes. We provide the following services to help individuals and families who are living with diabetes:
• • • • • •
Monthly support groups Free diabetes education classes Diabetes supplies Assistance with diabetes medication Eyeglasses and eye exams Speakers for community events
For more information, visit our website at https://diabetesyoucanwin.org. Source: www.diabetes.org/assets/pdfs/advocacy/state-fact-sheets/ georgia-state-fact-sheet.pdf
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Emory University Rollins School of Public Health Region IV Public Health Training Center The 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 Georgia, Alabama, Florida, 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. The center’s Pathways to Practice Scholars field placement program provides public health students the opportunity to gain practical experience working with seasoned public health practitioners (mentors) in underserved communities or populations. Since 2015, almost 60 students have been placed at sites across the region’s eight states, including 19 rural sites and 31 primary care settings. Most of the placements
Emory UniversityRollins School of Public HealthRegion IV Public Health Training Center
were at local health departments (40%), state health departments (22%) and area health education centers (17%). Most of the center’s competency-based training for public health professionals is free and may offer continuing professional education credits. The training includes webinars (live and on demand), interactive lectures (including satellite, archived and in person) and skill-based training (virtual and in person). Health Equity in the Face of Change: Tools for a National Campaign Against Racism is one of Region IV’s on-demand webinars and is available online. In this webinar, Dr. Camara Jones helps participants understand the three dimensions of health intervention: providing health services, addressing the social determinants of health (including poverty and neighborhood conditions) and addressing the social determinants of inequity (including racism). In addition, Dr. Jones discusses defining racism as a system, identifies three impacts of the system, describes three levels of racism, defines health equity and identifies three principles for achieving health equity.
The center also hosts an in-person workshop series called “Public Health Practice Academy.” It offers professional development workshops to provide public health professionals—especially those serving underserved populations and areas—with core skills for use in public health practice. Communicating Across Cultures: Cultural Competence for Public Health and Health Care Professionals is one of the most in-demand workshops. It provides clinical and non-clinical staff with foundational knowledge and practical tools to improve crosscultural communication. The workshop includes discussions on health disparities, health literacy and social determinants of health status. Participants gain an understanding of the legal, professional and ethical rationales for providing culturally competent services. Participants also receive guidance in assessing and improving their organization’s cultural competence. For more program information, to request training or to join our mailing list, go to www.r4phtc.org.
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Emory University Urban Health Initiative Atlanta is experiencing great health disparity. Poor people and people of color are more likely to live shorter and sicker lives and are less likely to survive chronic illnesses than their fellow Atlantans. The Urban Health Initiative serves people in underserved communities in metropolitan Atlanta. The initiative provides health education and advocacy, builds collaborative partnerships and develops best-practice models to advance equity in health and well-being. The initiative offers the following programs:
Community Teaching Garden The Community Teaching Garden has strong connections with the Bankhead, Vine City and Oak Grove communities in northwest Atlanta. They are in “food deserts,” as designated by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. About 250 community members have worked in the garden or attended workshops. The initiative has implemented a number of programs, including: The Young Ag-Entrepreneur Program: The program combines gardening/agricultural education, community leadership and business skill development in two sessions a week for ten weeks. The Tuesday Noon Together Program: The program serves lunch to senior citizens in the community. The meals provide opportunities for inter-generational engagement. The program also provides information on disaster preparedness to community residents and the homeless.
Emory University Urban Health Initiative
Dental Divergence Program This program addresses untreated dental pain and its resultant health and economic effects. It works with Grady Memorial Hospital’s Emergency Department to direct patients with oral and tooth pain to the HEALing Community Center’s dental clinic. The dental clinic is frequently a more appropriate and cost-effective alternative to the emergency room. The program displays the dental clinic’s posters in the hospital, uses patient navigators and refers patients to the clinic. Doula Support to Pregnant Teens A doula supports a mother before, during and shortly after childbirth. The doula support program addresses the needs of pregnant teens at Cross Keys High School. It focuses on students who lack labor and delivery support, as well as those who want to pursue a career as a doula.
The program also: Gathers economic and patient outcome data to inform policymakers about the value of adding doulas to birthing teams. Organizes Atlanta’s doula community. Delivers birth spacing messages to the public. Is designing a hospital on-call program.
Tobacco Cessation Program This pilot project at Grady hospital, begun in 2016, provides smoking cessation classes to patients and employees. It aims to identify the barriers to assessing smoking status at each patient encounter. For more information, please contact Brittany Evans at brittany.evans@emory.edu.
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Great Day Family Connections Great Day Family Connections, Inc., is a nonprofit family enrichment organization that provides events, activities and educational workshops with accessible communication to all families, especially those with children who are deaf or hard of hearing. We believe that families should be engaged in the academic, emotional and social development of their children. Parents are the most influential individuals in the life of a child and life-long memories are made from activities that engage all members as a unit. teachers. The program engages the entire family. Yes, children too! Topics may include: teaching children to be financially savvy, teaching a baby to communicate before he or she begins to talk and becoming a business owner.
Great Day Family Connections believes in families learning, teaching and connecting to the community together. We do not provide childcare or programs that separate children from the care of their parents or guardians.
Our programs include: Exposures: This series of monthly activities involves community businesses, organizations and individuals who provide fun, educational presentations. Learning Circles: This program is an opportunity for families and community members to come together as collaborative
Silent Towne: This fundraiser benefits the Deaf Space Camp at the U.S. Space & Rocket Center in Huntsville, Alabama. The goal is to bridge the communication gaps among individuals who are deaf or hardof-hearing or who speak foreign languages. There is absolutely no talking from participants or vendors. Language is an Art: This program will be introduced in early 2019. Its goal will be to help individuals learn English or to improve their skills in speaking English through various ways, such as music, movies, sports and shopping. Future plans also include a bowling event, a dance-a-thon and a resource and health fair. For more information, call (770) 560-3142, visit www.greatdayconnections.org or email dona.greatdayconnections@gmail.com.
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Kelley Chapel Empowerment Center & Community Outreach Ministry The Kelley Chapel Empowerment Center is a nonprofit entity dedicated to overseeing, advocating for and acquiring funds to sustain the Kelley Chapel Community Outreach Ministry. The ministry addresses diverse social needs and focuses on long-term lifestyle changes that are aimed at improving mental, physical and spiritual health. Through the ministry, we strategically lead and partner with other ministries that care for the most vulnerable in our community. We believe that the key to transforming lives is through the context of the relationships we build in our neighborhoods. Our ministry team pays attention to the community’s needs and has created ministries of compassion, justice and advocacy and programs to build a bridge between our church and community. The ministry has provided services in our community since 1998. We have served the specific needs of over 1,400 households.
Our programs include: • Human Relations: Community development, volunteer services and youth offender rehabilitation. •
Kelley Chapel Food Pantry: Feeding the hungry within in the community.
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One Great Hour of Sharing: Funds and programs of relief, rehabilitation and service.
Kelley Chapel Empowerment Center & Community Outreach Ministry
Our mission is to “Improve the lives of our congregation and community” by offering services that we simply call “care.” The services are shown below.
Area
Wellness
Cognitive and emotional health
Social ministry
Focus
Service
Physical health
Education on nutrition and the prevention and control of chronic diseases
Exercise
Zumba, aerobics, weight training, cardio, etc.
Recreation
Basketball, softball and bowling
Food
Nutritional food choices at all social events and in all vending machines
Senior outreach
Arts, crafts, sewing, line dancing and field trips
Educational workshops
Training on computers, cell phones, social media, email, wills and financial planning
Clothes closet
Twice weekly distribution of clothes, shoes, coats and accessories
Food pantry
Twice weekly distribution of food to supplement daily meals
For more information, call (770) 987-2523 or email kelleychapelempowermentcenter@gmail.com.
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Results Kids Club The Results Kids Club provides tools for youth to make smart choices in their academics, health and character (mind, body and spirit). Our programs include: • Leadership 365 Collaborative: This program recruits males ages 7 to 20 and females ages 14 to 20 and sponsors Cub/Boy Scout troops and the co-ed Venturing program. The club partners with YES 4 Health, Omega to Alpha Mentoring, A Step Ahead Learning Center, Ahead of the Game Learning Center, Atlanta Children’s Foundation and The Village to sustain the collaborative, with the goal of developing leaders 365 days a year.
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Hope for Helpless Ministries, which feeds youth at no cost to their parents.
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Atlanta Free Food, which provides fresh produce.
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The Cilly Cell Project, which provides nonperishables for kids and families.
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Positive Arts Movement, which offers the opportunity for expression through movement and dance.
Our greatest needs are adult volunteers, transportation for youth and support in the form of donations and grants. •
FATS: The Fitness, Arts, Technology and Sports program teaches the fundamentals of fitness.
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Urban Farming: This course teaches youth the “food to table” and “food desert” concepts and offers healthy food preparation classes.
In addition, the club partners with: • Why I Care, which serves kids who are victims of domestic violence, sexual abuse and bullying.
Results Kids Club is trying to make a difference in the community. Our motto is: “To get Res_lts, the only thing missing is ‘U’!” For more information, call (770) 987-7999. (Note: The Results Kids Club is sponsored by the Results Central fitness facility.)
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Royal Adult Day Services The African proverb, “When the music changes, so does the dance,” suggests that we adapt to what is coming our way or “go with the flow.” That is exactly what participant Ms. Annie has taught us to do at Royal Adult Day Services! She loves our morning sing-along time and, even if we have moved on to another activity, her melodious voice unassumingly interrupts by singing a favorite hymn. Our volunteers and participants politely join in, while allowing Ms. Annie’s voice to be heard. She innocently asks, “Did I do alright, Mama?” We applaud Ms. Annie and realize that she just wants to be heard. Influenced by Ms. Annie’s desire to be heard, our mission is to be the voice for her and others who share her experience of living with Alzheimer’s -- a voice that helps raise public awareness about dementia and educates the village about becoming more “dementia-friendly.” Located near Stone Mountain Village on Memorial Drive, Royal Adult Day Services is a family-centered, nonprofit, community-based adult day center. It offers stimulating, highly
engaging activities that help our amazing participants maintain a good quality of life. Although these former educators, nurses, teachers and homemakers are now living with dementia, they remain constantly involved in activities to stimulate cognition, including physical activity, art and music therapy, and book clubs. Our programs foster independence, well-being and self-esteem and are tailored to each individual’s interests and level of function. Nutritious meals are catered and participants receive snacks throughout the day. Royal provides care in a protective, congregate setting, enabling family caregivers to work, run errands or get a needed respite. In addition to providing a variety of social and support services, we partner with the Area Agency on Aging to offer educational programs for caregivers. For more information, contact Landa Clay Gamble at (770) 485-4700.
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Ruby A. Neeson Diabetes Awareness Foundation, Inc. The foot gives the body a secure foundation for standing, walking and moving. For people with diabetes who are experiencing foot complications, foot care is an unremitting issue that can have a debilitating impact on their lives. A diagnosis of a diabetes-related foot complication can come as a great shock. If you or a loved one is a diabetic with foot complications, it is paramount to procure correct information for well-being. Acquiring information helps those with diabetes make well informed choices about treatment options. In the U.S., more than 60% of non-traumatic, lower-limb amputations occur among people with diabetes (CDC, 2011). However, a comprehensive foot care program can reduce amputation rates by 45% to 85% (Apelqvist, Bakker & Schaper, 2012). Ruby A. Neeson Diabetes Awareness Foundation, Inc., is a community-based organization working to reduce the burden of diabetes. Total foot care and treatment require prompt involvement, analysis and prevention. Through education, advocacy and community outreach, the foundation provides an array of support, including conservative management and therapies and podiatrist-recommended foot products. Project Saving Soles The goal of Project Saving Soles is to reduce the risk of infection and life-threatening complications among individuals with diabetes. It strives to improve the relationship between patients and healthcare providers, decrease the
number of foot infections and reduce Georgia’s lower extremity amputation rate. The project is a four-week program that focuses on areas with high rates of diabetes, offering activities such as workshops. Many people can prevent serious foot complications by following the simple selfcare steps the project promotes. Anyone who is concerned about diabetes foot complications or who simply wants to increase their knowledge of diabetes health and wellness is welcome. After an individual completes the Project Saving Soles program, the foundation offers continuing help through CUBS (Coping, Understanding, Bonding, Supporting). For more information, please visit www.fightdiabetesnow.org. Sources: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/ PMC3369138/ https://www.cdc.gov/diabetes/pubs/pdf/ndfs_2011.pdf
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Tabitha’s House, Inc. In the dialogue on human trafficking, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the statistics, the issues and the politics. The problem is complex and pervasive--there are more modern-day slaves in our world than at any other point in history. But, there are also more people working to end human trafficking and slavery than ever before. Few of these organizations are large or well-known. Instead, they work from the grassroots level, promoting awareness and advocating for change in the communities where they are needed the most. These groups confront traffickers and broken systems in order to make a difference. They take a stand and serve as a voice for those who are exploited and held against their will. Tabitha’s House, Inc., is a 501(c)(3) organization that provides resources, services and interventions to individuals who have been victimized by sex trafficking. We aim to bring fresh AIR (Awareness, Impact and Restoration) to communities through the rescue, rehabilitation and restoration of individuals and families. Tabitha’s House operates a community resource center that serves male and female youth and adults, families and communities. We offer educational programs, mental health counseling, career development, life skills training, outreach services and community awareness training. Our programs assist individuals with daily life skills that enhance quality of life, terminate negative thought patterns and behaviors, generate an awareness of positive options and maintain a new, improved way of life. We hope to open a residential facility in the fall of 2018 to serve women ages 18 to 32 who have been victimized by sex trafficking.
We also assist families and agencies in missing persons search and rescue efforts. To date, we have assisted over 50 individuals (ages 5 to 56) who were involved in sex trafficking. Our programs contribute to the first step of prevention—educating others about the dangers of human trafficking. Increasing awareness through training, advocacy and forums prepares youth, adults, parents, school staff, neighbors, business owners, law enforcement and policymakers to recognize the signs of exploitation. By increasing awareness, we are equipped to recognize the warning signs associated with human trafficking. For more information, please call (678) 804-8823 or visit www.tabithashouseint.org.
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University of Georgia DeKalb County Cooperative Extension The University of Georgia Extension in DeKalb County offers reliable, non-biased, 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 that 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 healthier meals and snacks, stretch their food dollars and reduce the risk of foodborne illness. Fresh on DeK Another way the team addresses food insecurity, nutrition and health is through Fresh on DeK, the 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 UGA 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. Master Gardeners 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 learning about horticulture, the team offers classes on community gardens, ornamental trees and shrubs, turf, perennials and more. 4-H Youth Development Program The 4-H Youth Development Program focuses on leadership, citizenship, public speaking, science and technology, financial literacy and life skills. Today’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 call (404) 298-4080, email uge1089@uga.edu or visit www.extension.uga.edu/dekalb.
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Women Watch Afrika, Inc. Women Watch Afrika, Inc., is an Atlanta-based, international, nonprofit organization working to eliminate discrimination against and health disparities among women and girls. Its mission is “to promote the improved quality of life, health and well-being of African refugees and immigrants.” The organization advocates for self-sufficiency, independence and empowerment, while supporting the social and economic development of underserved refugee and immigrant women from 23 African nations. Women Watch Afrika provides outreach assistance, re-adjustment programs and referral services. It has programs to accomplish its goals in health advocacy, civic engagement, environmental and economic justice, and youth empowerment. There are two health initiatives as described below. The Preventative Health and Civic Engagement Program has trained over 95 refugee women as preventive health advocates. They have reached almost 2,500 refugee and immigrant families by providing health education, promoting healthy behaviors and raising awareness of the dangers of female genital mutilation/cutting. The Reproductive Justice Program provides cultural sensitivity training to health care providers who serve refugee women who have experienced genital mutilation. It also advocates against medical cesarean coercion practices. Women Watch Afrika’s successes include: • Becoming the first organization in Georgia to help a client gain “T visa” immigration status, which enables victims of severe human trafficking to temporarily remain in the U.S.
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Gaining special consultative status with the United Nations’ Economic and Social Council.
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Advocating for the City of Clarkston to sign a non-detainer policy stating there would be no colluding with the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agency and no detaining of refugees or immigrants without a proper judicial warrant.
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Contributing to the 2016 passage of Clarkston’s indoor air ordinance and fighting against exposure to secondhand smoke.
During the 2018 state legislative session, Women Watch Afrika co-hosted two Immigrant and Refugee Advocacy Days at the Capitol. Also, staff testified against Senate Bill 452 which, among other things, would have required local police to notify prosecutors when they learn a suspect is in the country illegally. (The bill did not pass.) In addition, the organization fought efforts to design noncitizens’ driver’s licenses in a “vertical” (i.e., portrait) format to make the lack of citizenship obvious. For more information, call (404) 759-6419 or email womenwatchafrika@gmail.com.
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Improving Health through Partnerships This publication was funded in part by a Racial and Ethnic Approaches to Community Health (REACH) grant, 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. 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. DeKalb County Board of Health was a REACH awardee from 2014 through 2018. Through this grant, partnerships were created with community-based organizations, schools, faith-based organizations and government agencies to increase access to healthier foods and places for physical activity in DeKalb County. These partners included: DeKalb County Schools Chapel Hill Elementary School Columbia Elementary School Mary McLeod Bethune Middle School Snapfinger Elementary School Stoneview Elementary School Toney Elementary School Faith-based Organizations Beulah Community Family Life Center The Bridge at Austin Drive Fairfield Baptist Church KD Moore Community Development Memorial Drive Presbyterian Church R.E.A.C.H. Community Development Center Saint Philip Community Development Corporation Stronghold Christian Church Tabernacle of Refugee
Government Agencies City of Lithonia City of Stone Mountain DeKalb County School District DeKalb County Parks and Recreation Georgia Safe Routes to School Resource Center University of Georgia DeKalb County Cooperative Extension Community-based Organizations Stone Mountain Farmers Market Tucker Farmers Market (Q Ventures, Inc.)
As part of its REACH efforts, the Live Healthy DeKalb coalition collaborated with partners to help engage and sustain program activities in the community. The focus of this publication is to inform the community and community partners about the local health needs and achievements and to disseminate success stories via member organizations of the Live Healthy DeKalb coalition.
2018 Annual
Partners Guide 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 DeKalb County Board of Health September 2018
