RUBY A. NEESON DIABETES AWARENESS FOUNDATION
According to the American Diabetes Association, diabetes is a significant public health obstacle that has moved toward epidemic levels. Group support is pivotal for diabetes self-management and prevention. The Ruby A. Neeson Diabetes Awareness Foundation aids people affected by diabetes by raising awareness through education, outreach and advocacy. Founded in 2012, the foundation makes a difference in three areas: health and wellness, social services and socioeconomics. It crusades to effect change by providing comprehensive diabetes education. The foundation’s mission is to reduce diabetes’ burden through behavior change approaches.
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eyond offering standard clinical methods of diabetes education, the foundation’s innovative strategies address the genetic and environmental factors and the social, emotional and financial facets of diabetes. The program coordinators are a diverse group of community health workers who are social change liaisons that connect vulnerable populations to health care information and services. The Ruby A. Neeson Diabetes Awareness Foundation’s vision is to decrease the rapid rise of diabetes through creating supportable opportunities for people to live healthier and longer lives by preventing life-threatening complications. Its core values are positive change, leadership, empowerment, good stewardship and community. The foundation’s programs are: •
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Diabetes Support Group: C.U.B.S. (Coping. Understanding. Bonding. Supporting): Group 2019 LHD Annual Partners Guide
fellowship offering a tailored support plan available to anyone who wishes to increase their knowledge of diabetes health and wellness. •
Nutrition for Wellness: Initiative addressing food insecurity by promoting healthy opportunities in diabetes meal planning and nutrition.
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Project Saving Soles: Community outreach mission providing quality, comprehensive foot care.
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Sock-It-to-Diabetes Sock Drive: Community service mission collecting new socks for homeless people.
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Corporate Health and Wellness Program: Initiative to improve the health and well-being of employees in the corporate world through health information and group activities.
