Pride Magazine - 2019 September/October "Health & Education" Issue by Pride Magazine Online

September-October 2019

The Health and Education Issue

African American Community Foundation Honoring the power ofÂ philanthropy

New Museum

Highlights history and culture in North Carolina

Get Fit

Seniors stay healthy with friends

Cardinal Innovations Healthcare: Quality Community Care for All

Charlotteâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s African-American Magazine

PRICED LOW EVERY DAY because THAT’S WHAT NEIGHBORS DO This is our That’s

Bank of America Down Payment Grant program Up to $10,000 off down payment in the Charlotte area! Our Down Payment Grant program may help make home buying more affordable in select markets.¹ Program highlights: • Eligible homebuyers may receive 3% of the purchase price for their primary residence (maximum $10,000). • Program funds may be used toward down payment only (no cash back). • Program funds may be taxable as income; a 1099-MISC will be issued. • Qualifying incomes vary by location. For properties located within a low- to moderate-income census tract (LMICT), there is no income limit. • Grant program is currently limited to one specific mortgage product. A lending specialist can direct you to the specific mortgage loan product available for the grant program.

Save even more with up to $7,500 closing cost credit Qualified homebuyers may receive a lender credit for nonrecurring closing costs through our America’s Home Grant® program. 2

Visit bankofamerica.com/downpayment center to learn more. Qualified borrowers must meet eligibility requirements including, but not limited to, being owner-occupants, meeting certain qualifying income limitations and purchasing a home within a certain geographical area. Minimum combined loan-to-value must be greater than or equal to 80%. Program funds can be applied toward down payment only. Borrowers cannot receive program funds as cash back in excess of earnest money deposits. Down Payment Grant program may be considered taxable income and a 1099-MISC will be issued; consult with your tax advisor. May be combined with other offers. For properties not located in a low- to moderate-income census tract, the maximum borrower/co-borrower annual qualifying income limit is 80% of Federal Financial Institutions Examination Council Area Median Income. For properties located in a low- to moderate-income census tract, there are no income limits. These income limits are subject to change without notice. The home loan must fund with Bank of America. The Bank of America Down Payment Grant Program may only be applied once to an eligible mortgage/property, regardless of the number of applicants. Bank of America may change or discontinue the Bank of America Down Payment Grant Program or America’s Home Grant Program or any portion of it without notice. Not available with all loan products; please ask for details. 2 Qualified borrowers must meet eligibility requirements including, but not limited to, being owner-occupants, meeting certain qualifying income limitations and purchasing a home within a certain geographical area. Minimum combined loan-to-value must be greater than or equal to 80%. The America’s Home Grant Program is a lender credit. Program funds can only be used for nonrecurring closing costs including title insurance, recording fees, and in certain situations, discount points that may be used to lower the interest rate. It cannot be applied toward down payment, prepaid items or recurring costs, such as property taxes and insurance. Borrowers cannot receive program funds as cash back. Credit and collateral are subject to approval. Terms and conditions apply. This is not a commitment to lend. Programs, rates, terms and conditions are subject to change without notice. America’s Home Grant, Bank of America and the Bank of America logo are registered trademarks of Bank of America Corporation. Bank of America, N.A., Member FDIC. Equal Housing Lender. ©2019 Bank of America Corporation. AD-07-19-0030 | AR5KSS3X | 07/2019 | 00-62-3474D 1

Julia P. Dance

POSSIBILITY HASNâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;T EVEN BEGUN TO DREAM UP ALL THE THINGS IT COULD BE. Earn an associate degree, work toward a four-year degree, or take a direct path to employment.

ConquerPossibility.com

Charlotte. Immersed in Light: Studio Drift at the Mint September 21 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; April 26 Dutch artist collective Studio Drift has transformed the intersection of art, nature, and technology. And now, The Mint Museum is organizing Studio Driftâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first museum exhibition in the U.S. Five breathtaking works of art will be on view, including one never-before-seen installation premiering in Charlotte. Come intrigued, leave inspired.

mintmuseum.org

Immersed in Light: Studio Drift at the Mint is organized by The Mint Museum and presented by PNC Bank with additional support by Duke Energy. IMAGE: Studio Drift. Fragile Future 3 (Detail), 2018, installation at Stedelijk Museum Amsterdam. Photo: Gert Jan van Rooij

Cardinal Innovations Healthcare is Proud to Sponsor Pride’s Health and Education issue

feel privileged by how Charlotte has made me feel at home after I’ve lived here for only a few short months. But that’s not a surprise to anyone who lives here. Prior to my recent relocation from Atlanta, I’ve served in a variety of leadership roles for health care organizations throughout the country over the past 20 years. I am quickly growing to appreciate the unique energy of this great city—its strong sense of community and its genuine desire to become an even better place to live, work and play. Cardinal Innovations Healthcare has that same desire. It’s our mission, after all, to improve the health and wellness of our members and their families. In this issue of Pride, you’ll have the opportunity to learn more about what Cardinal Innovations does and how we serve our members and our communities, which is underscored by a clear sense of shared purpose. We’re privileged to serve some of the most vulnerable populations in our state—those struggling with mental health issues and substance use disorders, as well as intellectual and developmental disabilities. These individuals are our family members, friends and neighbors, and we believe in creating a health plan for them that is centered around choice and integrated care that connects the mind with the body, and the individual with their community. Cardinal Innovations’ success as a pioneer in managed health care in this state has been the result of forward thinking and a lot of hard work on behalf our members—now more than 850,000 of them across 20 counties. But if there’s one key to our success, it’s this: Our teams reflect the communities we serve, so we know how to serve them best. We invite you to get to know Cardinal Innovations Healthcare. Learn more about the work we do, or even join our team as we make our communities healthier and stronger.

Dietrick Williams Cardinal Innovations Healthcare Chief Operations Officer

September-October 2019 | Pride Magazine

Sharp skills. Extensive training. And no limit to what comes

NEXT.

Our goal is to hire 250,000 veterans by 2020. And with our Veterans Welcome Home Commitment, every veteran who meets our standard hiring criteria and who has been honorably discharged since Memorial Day 2013 is guaranteed a position with Walmart. Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re dedicated to seeing you succeed. Explore your next opportunity at WalmartCareersWithAMission.com

Departments 7 Cardinal Innovations

Healthcare Letter

12 From the CEO

September – October 2019

14 Notable Names 15 By Faith 16 Mindful Parent 17 Book Review 43 Scene and Seen 54 Events Calendar

Arts & Culture 38 New African

American Museum of History & Culture

41 Crowing the Beauty

Within The Miss All Natural Pageant

Business 50 It’s A Wrap!

A new lifesaving product

53 FYI News & Notes

47 Log on to pridemagazineonline.com for more features including our weekly calendar of events.

Health 44 The Equalizer: Metrolina Internal Medicine 47 Get Fit: Seniors staying healthy with friends

Features On the Cover Dietrick Williams, Chief Operations Officer of Cardinal Innovations Healthcare in Romare Bearden Park Uptown Charlotte. Photo by T. Ortega Gaines.

20 Cardinal Innovations Healthcare

Improving health and wellness

22 African American Community Foundation

Promoting the power of philanthropy

25 Cardinal Innovations Healthcare

Cultural competency opens the door to quality care

Correction: The “Sponsor Thank You” ad on page 42 of the 2019 July/August issue misidentifies Dominique Wilson. Her correct name is Dominique Milton.

26 Cardinal Innovations Healthcare Partner Spotlight

The Steve Smith Foundation

35 Cookie Boss: Meet Maddie Miller September-October 2019 | Pride Magazine

PROUD TO GIVE BUSINESSES A LIFT CATS is proud to provide opportunities for businesses to create local jobs through the advancement of transit projects. CATS also seeks to create an environment that gives small and socially or economically challenged local businesses the opportunity to compete for publicly funded contracts by participating in the Small Business Opportunity (SBO) and the Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) Programs. To date, 11 DBE firms have been awarded contracts of over $13 million to help build the CityLYNX Gold Line Streetcar. As the major provider of public transportation to Charlotte and the surrounding region, CATS relies on the communities we serve to build and operate the service every day. By working together on these new opportunities, we can all keep our communities moving in the right direction. For more information, visit ridetransit.org.

CATS. YOUR RIDE IS HERE.

Charlotte’s African-American Magazine

CEO/Publisher Dee Dixon

Editor-in-Chief

Lashawnda Becoats

Copy Editor Polly Paddock

Lead Writer Angela Lindsay

Creative Director Larry Preslar

Design & Production SPARK Publications www.SPARKpublications.com

Distribution Watch Dog Entertainment®

Account Executive Nikelle Fesperman

Public Relations Nepherterra Estrada

Subscribe to Pride

$13.25. Please subscribe online at www.pridemagazineonline.com, mail to P.O. Box 30113, Charlotte, NC 28230 or call 704- 375-9553

Letters to the Editor

Please send an e-mail to info@pridemagazine.net fax to 704-375-9550 or mail to Pride Magazine 402 W. Trade St., Suite 102, Charlotte, NC 28202 www.pridemagazineonline.com

Copyright© 2019 Pride Magazine All rights reserved. Copying or reproduction, in part or in whole, is strictly prohibited. Pride Magazine reserves the right to deny any advertisement, listing or feature that does not meet Pride Magazine standards or that is outside the scope or mission of our magazine. Pride Magazine assumes no responsibility for information, products, services, or statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors.

September-October 2019 | Pride Magazine

FromTheCEO

By Dee Dixon

Ciao! Welcome to September

had the opportunity to travel to Italy in July with my 13-year-old granddaughter, Victoria Feimster, an eighth grade student at Charlotte Country Day School. We took our first trip to New York when she was only four, and nine years later we set out big time. First to Rome, where we toured the city on bikes, of course seeing the Coliseum, Spanish Steps and more. We also made a day trip to Pompeii and “attempted” to climb Mount Vesuvius, the volcano that destroyed this city. Next, we hopped aboard a train to Florence – well, not exactly. We were scammed and missed our first train, but successfully made the next one. In Florence, we saw Michelangelo’s “David” and did a half-day walking tour of the historical center.

Shopping was great there. We booked a day trip from Florence to Cinque Terre, which consists of five seaside villages on the Italian Riviera coastline. Unfortunately, the weather was so bad that we only got to visit one of the villages before the rest of the excursion was canceled. But moving on to Venice via train did not disappoint. It was absolutely beautiful there, as was our hotel. Venice is remarkably quaint -- my absolute favorite of the three cities. We took a water taxi to the square, where we toured St. Marks’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace, shopped and ate some great food. It was a life-changing experience. (For more of our Italy photos, go our gallery at www.pridemagazineonlinecom.

NOVEMBER ISSUE OF PRIDE Our upcoming November “Living with Pride” issue is going to be distinctively invigorating. We’ve partnered with Novant Health to bring “Remarkable Black Charlotte” to your attention. In addition to spotlighting Novant’s strong presence in our community, we’ll explore the history of Black Charlotte, provide stats about this demographic and let you know what’s on the minds of our African American neighborhood leaders. It’s a keeper.

MARK YOUR CALENDARS FOR PRIDE AWARDS 2020

“My favorite thing was riding bikes through the back streets of Rome, because we got to see all the pretty sights. My second favorite was eating a fried seafood cone in Florence; it was so good. I got shrimp, mussels and calamari. Lastly, I loved the gelato in Venice. I got it every day, because it was so creamy and refreshing.” -Victoria Feimster 12

Pride Magazine | www.pridemagazineonline.com

It’s official. Pride Awards 2020 will be a Black history luncheon, set for Friday, February 14. (See ad on page 5.) Please prepare to join us for another provocatively powerful program. You will NOT be disappointed. Log on to prideawards. net to secure your seating now, or call us at 704-375-9553 to find out about sponsorships. We’ll see YOU at the Pride Awards. Take care, Dee

WE’RE ALL DIFFERENT. WE’RE ALL THE SAME. When we need healing, we all want the same thing: expert care, tailored to our unique situation. Because when it comes to healthcare, everyone deserves the best.

NotableNames By Ryan Kouame

LOÁN LAKE

KRISHNA DEVA

TAMARA SMITH

RONEA CHAMBERS

Loán Lake was named the new communications director for Leading on Opportunity. Lake is a public relations and communications professional and published writer who most recently served as the marketing manager for Harvey B. Gantt Center for African-American Arts + Culture. Lake has worked with Fortune 500 companies, nonprofit organizations, the federal government and tourist destinations to increase brand visibility, develop content and messaging and engage community and corporate stakeholders. She holds a master’s in tourism and hospitality management from Temple University and a bachelor of arts in journalism from the University of Maryland at College Park. “I look forward to keeping in touch and working in the community,” says Lake. Leading on Opportunity is a nonprofit organization dedicated to creating systemic change in Charlotte, to address the areas of early care and education, college and career readiness, child and family stability and economic mobility.

Tamara Smith is the senior director of strategy, business performance and compliance for community engagement at Novant Health. Smith is a dedicated, authentic and experienced health care professional with a knack for leadership and community engagement. Her new role at Novant Health entails integrating innovative strategies that enable improvements in business performance, team member engagement and individual- and population-level health outcomes. She previously served as the director of community benefit at Novant Health, where she provided system leadership and oversight of community benefit operations for vulnerable patients and efforts around population health improvement. Smith received her master of science in public health education and promotion from Nebraska Methodist College and her bachelor of science in kinesiology and exercise science from Wake Forest University.

Pride Magazine | www.pridemagazineonline.com

Maya Hotels announced the addition of Krishna Deva as vice president. In her new role, Deva will be responsible for planning and executing strategic growth initiatives as the company continues to expand. Deva brings to the company extensive experience in hotel administration, corporate finance, investor relations and management consulting. Prior to joining Maya Hotels, which is based in Charlotte, Deva served as a management consultant for Boston Consulting Group, a global management consulting firm, in which she worked with clients in the aerospace and defense, pharmaceutical and financial institution industries on business development projects. Deva received her master of business administration from the University of Pennsylvania and her bachelor of science in hotel administration from Cornell University. “We are thrilled to welcome Krishna to the team. Her experience in the hotel industry, coupled with her strategic planning background, will be a great asset to Maya Hotels, especially in our time of expansion,” says Baldev Thakor, Maya Hotels president

Ronea Chambers, M.D. is a board-certified dermatologist at Sona Dermatology & MedSpa in Charlotte. Chambers received her medical degree from the University of South Florida College of Medicine. She completed her dermatology residency training at Howard University Hospital in Washington, D.C., while serving in the U.S. Air Force. She continued her military service as chief of dermatology at Andrews Air Force Base. Throughout her career, she has continued to mentor and train resident physicians, medical assistants and physician assistant students. Chambers has had several articles published, has been featured in many media publications and has traveled nationally for lecturing engagements. “My goal for each patient is to help them achieve their healthiest skin possible. It’s rewarding to use my creativity and skill to educate, equip and empower my patients so that we attain this goal together,” says Chambers.

ByFaith

By Rev. Dr. Dwayne Bond

Should I Consider a Plant-Based Diet?

f you pay attention to the media’s trending topics, it won’t take long to discover the countless approaches being touted to prevent premature aging and lower the risks of life-altering and life-threatening diseases. Today’s research shows that there is a link among lifestyle, health and disease. The American Cancer Society believes that lifestyle habits and choices can be contributing factors to cancer prevention. According to the Centers for Disease Control, a lifestyle of eating healthy foods, getting proper sleep and adequate rest and exercising regularly seem to assist in maintaining one’s health and reducing the onset of some diseases. While much can be said about healthy lifestyles, let’s focus on how our diets can directly impact and enhance our health. With new fad diets popping up every day, how do we determine the best foods to consume to reach our health goals? Which diet will lead to the healthiest lifestyle?

Is it the Ketogenic diet, Atkins diet, Zone diet, Weight Watchers diet, South Beach diet, Mediterranean diet, vegetarian diet, pescatarian diet, vegan diet or the raw food diet? Although there are pros and cons to each approach, incorporating more fruit, vegetables, nuts and seeds into your diet will always prove beneficial. Eating exclusively this way is typically referred to as the plant-based diet. It consists of eating fresh, pesticide-free food that is derived from plants. Due to its countless benefits, numerous people are transitioning to the plant-based diet. It’s becoming massively popular as people commit to healthier eating and seek to fight off diseases. Even pop superstars such as Jennifer Lopez, Taraji Henson, Beyoncé, Jay-Z, Ellen DeGeneres, Woody Harrelson, Erykah Badu, and Ariana Grande have transitioned to this lifestyle and have encouraged others to join them.

What is it about the plant-based diet that we should be paying attention to? Could it be the missing piece to enhancing one’s health and reducing disease? Perhaps Scripture can shed some light on these questions. The biblical creation account gives us a glimpse of the diet that existed when mankind was placed on the earth and experienced a sinless, perfect environment. According to Genesis 1, God created the earth and mankind in six days, and on the seventh day, He rested. In Genesis 1:26-27, He created male and female in His own image. In Genesis 1:28, He commanded man and woman to be fruitful and multiply and fill the earth and subdue it and have dominion over the fish of the sea and the birds of the air and everything that moved on the earth. In Genesis 1:29, the Scripture says, “And God said, Behold, I have given you every plant yielding seed that is on the face of all the earth, and every tree with seed in its fruit. You shall have them for food.” Did God create our bodies to consume more plants than we actually do? Several benefits of the plant-based diet include improving digestion, increasing nutrient intake, lowering blood pressure, increasing energy levels naturally, detoxifying the body, reducing the risk for chronic disease, strengthening skin, hair and nails, improving mental clarity, nourishing cells and organs and maintaining body weight. Although I’m not saying that a plant-based diet is the only way to be healthy, the research on its benefits is compelling. What we consume has a profound effect upon our health and well-being. If eating an exclusively plantbased diet is not for you, consider increasing your fruit and vegetable intake. May God give you the wisdom and selfcontrol to make food choices that will lead to greater health, vitality and longevity. P The Rev Dwayne Bond is the lead pastor of Wellspring Church.

September-October 2019 | Pride Magazine

TheMindfulParent

By Shavonda Bean

Understanding Gender Identity

“

ender reveal parties” have become almost as elaborate as weddings. While genes determine gender at conception, the fetus is initially gender neutral, and it isn’t until about 18 to 22 weeks gestation before doctors can use genitalia or DNA analysis to identify the sex of a baby. However, there are numerous and complex genetic developments that influence gender identity and the people we become. At around age two, children start to notice the differences between girls and boys, and start to label themselves. By age four, most children have a sense of their gender identities. For some, that grand celebration you had before their birth no longer applies to how your child sees his or herself, his or her gender or how he or she lives. Over time, children will begin to use their clothes, styles, interests, peers and name preferences to express their personalities and genders. Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer or questioning is referred to as LGBTQ, an acronym for the expression of sexual orientation and gender identity. The process of “coming out” is a challenging and life-changing experience that often frees a person to be his or herself. In some cases, “coming out” can be difficult for parents to understand, especially when there are opposing beliefs or preconceived ideas and expectations for your child’s life. Understanding, listening, educating and supporting your child can help your relationship, while continuing to nurture your child’s growth, strengths, gifts and abilities. Simply listening to your child without judgment can be the best starting place. It’s OK to take time to manage your own emotions and feelings before responding. Controlling, shaming, rejecting or belittling your child will not force him or her to transform. A therapist does not aim to change a child’s perspective or gender identity, but can offer support and/

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or guidance if the child is questioning or confused about gender identity. Consider the following as you navigate the process: • Don’t stop at one conversation; keep the doors of communication open as gender identity develops. Understand how your child prefers to dress or wear his or her hair or express identity. Ask about when and where your child feel most supported or discriminated against. These are great opportunities to teach your child to advocate for him or herself and be aware of rights. • Taking time to understand preferred pronouns shows respect, validation and inclusion. Whether you consider yourself a male, female or other, you wouldn’t want anyone to refer to you using a pronoun you didn't prefer. Most common pronouns are she/her/hers and he/him/ his, but some prefer gender-neutral pronouns such as they/them/theirs. I’ve learned that it’s Ok to make mistakes, but it helps to ask people about their preference and make an effort to honor them in this way. I also believe children must understand that parents (and

especially grandparents) might find it more difficult to adjust. While many children are comfortable, confident and living happy lives in their gender identity, others with both mental illness and who are LGBTQ are more likely to be faced with multiple layers of stigma and discrimination. The Trevor Project (thetrevorproject.org) notes that while suicide is the second leading cause of death among those ages 10-24, lesbian, gay and transgender youth are five times as likely as others to have attempted suicide. Youth who are rejected by their families are 8.4 times more likely to have attempted suicide when compared to those children who are supported. Consider linking your child and family to supports and resources. Your local National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) (nami.org) or the Charlotte Transgender Healthcare Group (cthcg.org) are great places to start. P Shavonda Bean is a licensed psychological associate and owner of Essential Assessments & Behavioral Health. Visit www.EssentialHealthNC.com for more information.

BookReview

By Angela Haigler

Great Reads for the Fall

“The Nickel Boys: A Novel” by Colson Whitehead Colson Whitehead dives into realistic historical fiction in his latest masterpiece, “The Nickel Boys.” The Pulitzer Prize winner and No. 1 New York Times bestselling author for “The Underground Railroad” is likely setting himself up for future accolades with this book, set in the Jim Crow era. When Elwood is thrown into the Nickel Academy reform school on a false charge, he struggles to survive the cruelty and abuse heaped on him, in an environment devoid of humanity. Martin Luther King Jr.’s speeches play a surprising role and are woven throughout the narrative.

“Sweat the Technique: The Elements of Writing – Anything” by Rakim If you look back on any classic hip hop list of exceptional artists, Rakim will surely be at the top. From “I Ain’t No Joke” to “Paid in Full,” he is often called “the greatest MC of all time.” With his new book, “Sweat the Technique,” Rakim gives us a work that is both a tool for writers and a memoir that incorporates his incredible genius and creativity.

“Red at the Bone”

“Syncope” by Asiya Wadud

by Jacqueline Woodson A contemporary celebration leads readers on a journey to unravel a mystery that has joined two families from different social classes. In “Red at the Bone,” award-winning author Jacqueline Woodson provides a story that compels. Through her artistry, so many questions are asked, and the answers are startling. What happens when young people are asked to make decisions that could impact them for the rest of their lives?

Using poetry to record an event that few remember, poet Asiya Wadud reflects on the 2011 tragedy in which occupants of a boat filled with African migrants and refugees, bound from Libya to Lampedusa, Italy, were literally left to die in the Mediterranean. Everyone did not die, but many did, and Wadud’s work -- which uses hymns, prayers and other verses -is incredibly timely, given today’s struggles along the U.S. border.

For the Young Reader “Some Places More Than Others” by Renée Watson Renée Watson, a Newbery Honor and Coretta Scott King award-winning author, uses her incredible storytelling talents in this middle grade novel. Watson brings us Amara, a young girl who longs to experience the Harlem her father had shared with her when she was a child. But once she arrives there, she realizes so much has changed, and what is imagined doesn’t always equal the reality.

September-October 2019 | Pride Magazine

Cardinal Innovations Healthcare Improving the Health and Wellness of Charlotte’s Most Vulnerable By XXXX

“The people we serve in North Carolina are dealing with significant challenges, so it’s critical that we succeed in providing them with the resources they need.” - Cardinal Innovations CEO

Trey Sutten

Pride Magazine | www.pridemagazineonline.com

hile it would be accurate simply to describe Cardinal Innovations Healthcare as a managed care organization (MCO), that wouldn’t tell much of the story. The real story is a human one; it’s a story about the people the organization serves and the communities where they live—it’s about a network of providers, local partners and members working together to build stronger families and stronger communities. As North Carolina’s largest MCO, Cardinal Innovations connects more than 850,000 people with complex needs to the Medicaid and public health services and supports they need to live their best lives. The complex needs include those related to mental health, intellectual/developmental disabilities and substance use disorders. It’s important work that strengthens the fabric of families and neighborhoods and makes life better for all of us. It’s also work that requires courage, because it touches on some of society’s most difficult challenges, including mental illness and addiction, and the stigma that unfortunately often surrounds those conditions. And it’s work that is best suited for innovators, because the challenges and the health care landscape are always changing. “The people we serve in North Carolina are dealing with significant challenges, so it’s critical that we succeed in providing them with the resources they need,” said Cardinal Innovations CEO Trey Sutten. “Everyone has a vested interest in our success—it’s a responsibility we take seriously.”

As Diverse as the Communities It Serves

Cardinal Innovations’ service area stretches from Mecklenburg and Union counties in the south, and generally follows Interstate 85 north and east to Halifax County. It’s a large region that is both urban and rural, wealthy and underprivileged and a bit of everything in between.

“One of my old bosses, from my time in the financial sector, was a guy named Ken Bacon. I learned a lot from Ken, but something that really stuck with me was his theory that an organization should look like its customers, or members in our case,” said Sutten. “In health care, understanding and connecting with the folks we serve is more important than in any industry—and when we’re talking about individuals dealing with mental health challenges, people who are fighting to stay sober or who may not even be able to verbalize their needs—the more we can inherently connect with them, the more likely we’ll be able to make a positive impact in their lives.” For almost 15 years, Cardinal Innovations has been a pioneer in behavioral health and managed care. It has served as a model for similar organizations throughout the state and the country, and it has been a leader in finding new ways to improve the health and wellness of its members. Perhaps none of these innovations has done more to improve lives than its communitybased approach.

Cardinal Innovations is in Your Community

Cardinal Innovations collaborates with a network of hundreds of providers and other stakeholders on clinical and quality initiatives in each of the 20 counties it serves. These initiatives not only improve the care members receive, but they also identify gaps in services and resources that impact the overall health of each community. Taking it even further, Cardinal Innovations deploys hundreds of care coordinators, who work directly with members in their homes and communities to develop individualized plans of care

and to discuss each step along the way. “The work we do as a team—often across a kitchen table or in a member’s living room—ensures that we have an intimate understanding of our members’ needs,” said Sutten. “It’s the only way to be sure that everyone receives the services they need, no matter where they live or how significant those needs are. There are no shortcuts.” That’s what Cardinal Innovations does on the individual level, but in 2018, Cardinal Innovations took its community focus to new heights, with the launch of a grant program called the Community Reinvestment Initiative. Dozens of nonprofit organizations, schools and municipalities received funding for projects addressing needs related to the Cardinal Innovations mission— organizations such as NC MedAssist, which received funding to open a store in west Charlotte to distribute free, over-thecounter medications and basic medical supplies to anyone who needs them. “The goal of this effort was to fund sustainable, high-impact projects in our communities,” Sutten said. “We actually received so many worthy proposals that we made the decision to go beyond our original commitment—funding more than $4 million in projects. It’s an investment in our members, providers and communities that is right in line with our mission.” Cardinal Innovations’ impact on communities can be seen in other important ways, too. Over the past year, the organization’s Transitions to Community Living team, which has received national attention for its success, has helped more than 200 people move from adult group homes to independent housing. Cardinal Innovations has also provided more than 900 training sessions for professionals, as well as the

“The goal of this effort was to fund sustainable, high-impact projects in our communities. We actually received so many worthy proposals that we made the decision to go beyond our original commitment—funding more than $4 million in projects." - Cardinal Innovations CEO

Trey Sutten

community. More than 14,000 people have attended these classes in the past year alone—classes including PersonCentered Thinking, Mental Health First Aid and Cultural Competence, just to name a few. Hundreds of law enforcement officers and other first responders have taken advantage of Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) training through Cardinal Innovations, making them better prepared for encounters with those struggling with mental illness. In these, and many other ways, Cardinal Innovations has demonstrated its commitment to the health and wellness of its members and their families, but also its commitment to the health and wellness of us all. P Content provided by Cardinal Innovations Healthcare.

September-October 2019 | Pride Magazine

Promoting the Power of Philanthropy

“I see AACF as a leading institution for Black philanthropy in the South. In order to realize this goal, we must raise awareness of the foundation and grow the endowment" - AACF board chair Keysha Walker Taylor By Angela Lindsay

ugust is Black Philanthropy Month, created in August 2011 by Dr. Jackie Bouvier Copeland, co-founder of the Pan-African Women's Philanthropy Network as an annual global celebration of African-descent giving. While these facts may be news to some, Foundation for the Carolinas (FFTC) is well aware of the occasion, and chose to observe it this year by celebrating and highlighting the work of one of its special programs that has been serving the Charlotte community for a quarter of a century. For 25 years, the African American Community Foundation (AACF) has been supporting efforts that promote economic

Pride Magazine | www.pridemagazineonline.com

self-reliance, equal opportunity, leadership skills and cultural awareness among members of the region’s African American community. Established in 1993 as a special initiative of FFTC, the organization also serves as a center for African American philanthropic development. The AACF was started with assistance of two endowments: 1) The Lethia Jones Henderson Endowment was established in 1981 by the transfer of a trust via Henderson’s will to FFTC. It serves as an unrestricted fund for the purpose of meeting needs in health and community services, with an emphasis on service to minority groups; 2) Elizabeth Randolph,

a humanitarian and educator, created the African American Endowment Fund to support organizations that promote economic self-reliance, advance equal opportunity, increase opportunity for the economically and socially disadvantaged, develop leadership skills, promote educational advancement and promote cultural awareness. “AACF is a unique institution, in that it was initially funded with African American dollars, it has always been led by an African American board and solely grants to programs that address disparities in the African American community,” says AACF board chair Keysha Walker Taylor. “This

‘for us, by us’ model is a rare treasure to have in Charlotte. In fact, to have foundations like AACF in any major metropolitan city is great, but in the South, where African Americans have Keysha Walker Taylor typically suffered the most, this fund is a necessity.” Since its inception, the AACF has awarded more than $500,000 in grants to 85 local nonprofits, making its first grants to local organizations in 1994. The AACF board thoroughly reviews the grant applications to understand the organization, its leaders and what impact they expect from the program, Taylor explains, adding that the initiatives AACF funds and the nonprofit leaders of these programs will yield a return on investment for the entire Charlotte region. Priority is given to “seed grants” to initiate promising and innovative new projects by existing agencies or by new organizations. “Many of the organizations that we provide funding to interact with the people they serve on a daily basis with very limited resources,” says Qiana Austin, vice president and scholarships program officer for community philanthropy and civic leadership

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at FFTC. “Once these organizations attend our grant-writing workshops and receive funding from AACF, they become more confident and are more inclined to apply for larger grant funding. AACF helps Qiana Austin provide more support for those who are making a true difference in the communities they serve.” One of the 2019 AACF grant recipients was S.T.A.R.S. Math & English Academy, which increased the number of third- to eighth-graders from underserved and underrepresented communities who participate in its End of Grade (EOG) Boot Camp, enabling these students to increase their performance on state EOG tests in reading and math. “We are honored to receive a grant from the African American Community Foundation,” says Elijah Watson, the academy’s executive director. “The AACF’s purpose is to help strengthen African American communities, which is also a goal of S.T.A.R.S Math & English Academy. The funds we received inspired us to help as many students as possible. Lastly, we are grateful to be a part of the AACF family,

because of their remarkable history of altruism in the Charlotte community.” In addition to funding area nonprofits, the AACF provides grant-writing and provides workshops for Elijah Watson organizations addressing disparities within the African American community. The group is looking to increase its grant-making from $10,000 last year to $25,000 this year to celebrate its 25 years. “I see AACF as a leading institution for Black philanthropy in the South,” Taylor says. “In order to realize this goal, we must raise awareness of the foundation and grow the endowment. We’re currently operating with half a million dollars in the fund. If the endowment increases to a million or $10 million and those funds grow in perpetuity, the African American Community Foundation will benefit Charlotte for generations. We see models of this around the country and even in certain Charlotte communities. We are reaching out to individuals and families in the Charlotte region to become donors and supporters to help AACF grow as a vehicle for collective giving.” P

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September-October 2019 | Pride Magazine

Cultural Competency Opens the Door to Quality Care By Revella Nesbit, Director of Diversity & Inclusion Cardinal Innovations Healthcare

ammy entered the office of the licensed therapist. She was nervous and unsure if she was doing the right thing; some of her friends thought it was a waste of time and money. But one of her friends told Tammy about her good experience with a therapist. After the appointment, the friend said she felt “emotionally lighter.” As she entered the office, Tammy was greeted warmly by the receptionist. That’s a good start, she thought. And a short time later, she was sitting with the therapist and she too was beginning to feel emotionally lighter. The therapist was able to connect with her in a way that honored and respected who she was as a person and her family traditions. She later learned that the therapist regularly attended trainings to sharpen her skills as a culturally aware clinician. Tammy was intrigued. Health care providers who are culturally competent are responsive to the cultural and communication needs of the individuals they serve. They embrace cultural humility defined as self-reflection and discovery in order to build honest and trustworthy relationships. Stigma, historical trauma and a lack of trust are some of the barriers that exist for those seeking help. Health care providers who have an understanding of how a person’s culture influences his or her beliefs about health and healing, perceptions of illness, disease and their causes increase the opportunities to genuinely connect with the person seeking assistance. Culturally and linguistically appropriate services continue to be recognized as effective approaches to improving quality of care and addressing health disparities. Providing training on topics related to diversity and culturally competent care is an integral part of supporting the growing diversity that exists within our communities and the nation. According to the 2014 Mecklenburg State of the County Health Report, 51 percent of the county’s population is of a race/ethnicity other than white, and 8.6 percent of the population has limited English proficiency. By acknowledging this increase in racial, ethnic and linguistic diversity, health care providers can be better prepared to meet the needs of everyone.

At Cardinal Innovations Healthcare, we recognize the importance of understanding culture in the treatment of the whole person. We are committed to doing our part in being a supportive partner within the communities that we serve.

In addition to cultural competence trainings for health care providers, we offer programs called Mental Health First Aid, QPR (Question, Persuade, & Refer) to address suicide prevention, Opioid 101, Person Centered Training, WRAP: Wellness Recovery Action Plan and Whole Health Action Management (WHAM). These trainings, along with many others, equip health care providers with knowledge and resources, while empowering those who receive services with information that they can use to partner with health care providers. Training and educational opportunities are offered at low or no cost to community members, stakeholders and health care providers. To learn more about training opportunities offered by Cardinal Innovations Healthcare, visit www.cardinalinnovations.org P .

Nesbit leading a Cultural Competence training at Cardinal Innovations.

by the numbers

CHARLOTTE PATIENT DIVERSITY the county’s population is of a 51% ofrace/ethnicity other than white the population has limited 8.6% ofEnglish proficiency Americans to 1 White person polled 1.3 African reported their mental health as "not good" Source: 2014 Mecklenburg State of the County Health Report

September-October 2019 | Pride Magazine

Cardinal Innovations Healthcare Partner Spotlight: The Steve Smith Family Foundation By Gerard Littlejohn

Steve Smith and Gerard Littlejohn.

t’s not often that you get to live out your purpose and make a living doing it. Fortunately for me, I get a chance to do just that on a daily basis. Four years ago, I was hired by former Carolina Panthers star Steve Smith Sr. to be the executive director of his foundation, which had just launched a few months prior. My career had long been in sports. I interned for the Charlotte Hornets (then the Bobcats) in the public relations department, and began working there full-time after I graduated from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. I’ve also had stints working in sports marketing for both Lowe’s and Dick’s Sporting Goods, and did a bit of writing for the Associated Press. I’ve even had

my own business, producing content and consulting for pro athletes, nonprofits and other organizations. But this role transcends sports altogether, and I couldn’t be happier. More specifically, there are a couple amazing things I love about my role. First, the Steve Smith Family Foundation was established to assist victims and survivors of domestic violence, as well as to provide health and wellness services to families in need. We’ve raised money for domestic violence agencies through our events, renovated shelters and even launched a medical and counseling clinic, the Smith Family Wellness Center, that provides medical and counseling services to uninsured and underinsured residents in east Charlotte.

Steve was inspired to start this foundation because his mom is a survivor of domestic violence. He witnessed his mom being abused and having to deal with the aftereffects of that—including having to live in shelters, or with neighbors, and not having access to health care when it was most important. When I interviewed for this role and had to hear Steve’s story, I was floored. But also, I found his story relatable. Why? Because my mom is a domestic violence survivor, as well, and it’s taken me some time to share that. I didn’t witness it. Her abuse happened with her ex-husband before I was born. However, I’ve seen its reverberation throughout her life, including how she processes things and who she lets into her life. One in four women is affected by domestic violence in her lifetime. But now, with the clinic we launched in 2016, we’re able to give counseling to women and families who have experienced trauma. In 2018, due to a grant from Cardinal Innovations, our staff was able to expand and hire an additional trauma-informed counselor to help meet the needs of our community. The other thing that brings me joy in this role is knowing that I get to make an impact with people who look like me. It’s not often that two African American males lead nonprofits, specifically ones that directly impact areas of domestic violence and community health. In fact, a 2015 study by Community Wealth Partners found that only eight percent of nonprofits were led by people of color. By this time, we’re all familiar with Charlotte’s upward mobility issue. I’m proud our organization, led by men of color, impacts those who look like us and shares our experiences. I also couldn’t be more proud that Charlotte chooses to help us and open its arms to us. P

Recognizing the Importance of Teachers and Support Staff

verything that happens in a school is important. It takes a village of people working together to make schools productive and effective. Without question, teachers and support staff at private schools have a huge impact, not only on students, but also on the entire school system. Together, teachers and support staff create an environment that is essential to educating students, as well as keeping them safe. This commitment reinforces a setting that helps students thrive academically, socially and emotionally. We’re spotlighting the importance of both groups in this special section. At Pride, we feel it’s important to give our readers an inside look at the team of people who contribute to the greatness of private schools. P

September-October 2019 | Pride Magazine

Making Connections For 13 years, Olga Mawougbe has taught Providence Day’s Lower Schoolers lessons in the Science Lab—anything from using balls and ramps to help kindergarteners understand physics to challenging fourth-graders to build wind-powered cars. Mawougbe also serves on the Environmental Sustainability Committee, making earthfriendly recommendations for the school; heads the Lower School Science Olympiad; and volunteers during the summer for PD’s Freedom School site, leading activities to prevent summer learning loss. She is also the mom of two PD alumni. “I think the most precious thing a teacher can have with a student is a connection. Kids are all different, but if you can connect with them, that takes them—and you—very far,” she says.

www.ProvidenceDay.org/MeetOurFaculty

Did you know? Did you know? • 100% of Country Day •

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As a school, we seek to admit talented and motivated As a school, we seek to admit talented and motivated students from diverse backgrounds. Central to preparing students from diverse backgrounds. Central to preparing our students for this world is creating a diverse academic our students for this world is creating a diverse academic community, including socioeconomically, racially, and community, including socioeconomically, racially, and ethnically. In Infact, fact,research researchhas hasproven proventhat thata diverse a diverse ethnically.

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environmentleads leadstotobetter betterlearning learningoutcomes outcomes environment forfor allall students. Families Familieswho whofeel feelthe thefull fulltuition tuitioncost cost their students. is is outout of of their reach should shouldnot nothesitate hesitatetotovisit visitororapply applytoto the school. reach the school. WeWe are here here to to help helpyou youdetermine determinethe thebest bestoptions options your are forfor your family with with this thisvery veryimportant importanteducational educationalinvestment. investment. family

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graduates areDay accepted to 100% of Country colleges universities graduates areand accepted to around world; the Class colleges andthe universities around the world; the$10.6 Classmillion of 2019 received of 2019 $10.6offers millionbased totalreceived scholarship totalonscholarship academic offers merit, based athletic on academic merit, athletic abilities, or special talents abilities, or special talents • Nearly 20% of our enrollment Nearly 20% of our enrollment comprises students of color comprises students of color • 100% of our faculty engage 100% of our faculty engage in professional development in professional development each year including diversity, each year including diversity, equity, and inclusion equity, and inclusion • About 16.5% of the Country About 16.5% of the Country Day student body receives Day student body receives financial financial aid; aid; moremore thanthan million is granted $4.5$4.5 million is granted withwith an average award of $12,000 an average award of $12,000 •OverOver of Board our Board 20%20% of our of Trustees comprises of Trustees comprises people of color people of color

Call to to learn more about Callusustoday today learn more about the at at Country Day! theopportunities opportunities Country Day! charlottecountryday.org | (704) 943-4530 charlottecountryday.org | (704) 943-4530

Charlotte Latin School Young Alumni Spotlight

Christian Mackey �14, Morehouse College �18 Christian embodies Latin’s vision to educate students in the importance of learning, citizenship, service to others, hard work and Honor Above All. Christian is currently employed as a Private Equity Analyst with BDT Capital Partners where he is responsible for transaction analysis and execution of investments and advisory assignments. Some of Christian’s noteworthy accomplishments at Morehouse include: • Graduating as the top Finance Major • Receiving the Presidential Scholarship and serving as a Presidential Ambassador • Induction into Beta Sigma Gamma • Being awarded the Nielsen Scholarship and the Delta Airlines/Joseph E. Lowery Scholarship • Interning with Goldman Sachs as an Investment Banking Summer Analyst • Serving as Director of the Morehouse Business Association Academic Year Protégé Program Director • Being elected Class Treasurer for Sophomore and Junior years While at Charlotte Latin School, Christian was a multi-sport athlete, having participated in football, lacrosse, wrestling and track and field. We are Hawk Proud and celebrate Christian’s continued personal and professional success.

Interested in learning what Charlotte Latin School can do for your child? Call today to learn more and to schedule a tour: 704.846.7207.

September-October 2019 | Pride Magazine

SPONSORED CONTENT

A PERSPECTIVE ON WORK-LIFE BALANCE AND HEALTH By Brenda Hayden, president Charlotte Regional Realtor® Association/Carolina Multiple Listing Services, Inc.

eptember usually marks the end of summer vacation and preparing kids to go back to school, but it’s also a month where healthcare providers raise awareness for issues like cancer, prostate health, pain management, Alzheimer’s, and suicide. As a Realtor® who’s scheduling multiple appointments and meeting home inspectors, lenders, and appraisers, I often fall into the trap of not taking time out to take care of my whole self: mind, body and spirit. We all do. This is why when our schedules get full of commitments, it’s a great time to pause and reflect about our own physical and mental health. One of the ways that I reconnect with myself is through daily meditation, and I try to eat right and carve out time for exercise. Another way is by joining my fellow Realtors® to participate in events through the Housing Opportunity Foundation like Realtors® Care Day, where we can dedicate our heart and horsepower on making critical home repairs. Just this past June, Realtors®, walkers, and running enthusiasts like myself supported the Foundation’s annual Strides for Shelter 5K Run/Walk. This year we raised money for The Relatives, a local organization that provides emergency shelter to runaways and teens in crisis. In fact, since the inception of the Strides for Shelter 5K, Realtors®, with the help of the Charlotte community, have raised

Brenda Hayden, president, Charlotte Regional REALTOR® Association/ CarolinaMLS and Allen Dargins, CarolinaMLS Board of Director cross the finish line at the 2019 Strides For Shelter 5K Run/ Walk in June.

more than $40,000 for the Urban Ministry, A Child’s Place and Men’s Shelter of Charlotte — all because we believe that everyone has the right to safe, healthy, and sustainable housing. Make September the month you do something for your own mental and physical wellbeing. Consider taking a yoga class or a cooking course, or perhaps talk with a counselor. Whatever you decide, realize you’ll be on your way to a better you!

September-October 2019 | Pride Magazine

African American Museum of History & Culture at Loray Mill By Hope Yancey | Photos by Hope Yancey

he African American Museum of History & Culture at Loray Mill in Gastonia opened in February during Black History Month, and already it’s alive with possibility. On this weekday in June, the museum is using space on the renovated textile mill building’s first floor to hold summer camp. At one table, older children complete worksheets on jazz musician Louis Armstrong. Around the other, younger campers draw. The museum itself occupies a room on the second floor. Visitors can see a colorful quilt from the African American Quilt Guild of Gaston County, learn about the historic Highland community and more.

A bookshop inside the museum highlights the work of African American authors and illustrators. Dot Guthrie, the museum’s founder and executive director, retired from a career as a public librarian in Gaston County and a school librarian for several area school districts. She serves on the Gaston County Board of Education. She also is the author of “Integrating African American Literature in the Library and Classroom.” Guthrie has just returned from an American Library Association conference in Washington, D.C. She says her library background was “phenomenal” in launching the museum.

Photographs, documents, antiques and other artifacts are among items on display at the African American Museum of History & Culture at Loray Mill in Gastonia. 38

Pride Magazine | www.pridemagazineonline.com

The museum began as a brief exhibit over a few days at Tabernacle Baptist Church in Gastonia, where she’s a member. Hundreds of people viewed the temporary display, Guthrie says. “At that time, we knew that there was a tremendous need, a critical need, for an African American history museum,” she says. A fellow church member connected with Loray Mill helped her locate space. Guthrie’s original intent was for the museum to last two weeks. As she thought about it, she decided she might as well negotiate a lease for a permanent location at Loray.

Guthrie, 72, invested her own funds in the museum, but it also receives sponsorship from Anthony Gallant, a State Farm insurance agent. House of Africa, a store and gallery in Plaza Midwood featuring African art, and the Harvey B. Gantt Center for AfricanAmerican Arts + Culture donated some items. “Growing up, I always wanted to make a difference. And I do believe this time, in addition to being a librarian, that I have,” Guthrie says. One exhibit depicts the uses for cotton as an agricultural product. Cotton is woven into Guthrie’s personal history as one of six children from a farm in Clover, S.C.. Her father, Willis Littlejohn, was a sharecropper who could not read or write, she recalls. When he needed to sign his name, he would form an X instead. Guthrie recounts how she picked cotton from early morning until late afternoon. At the end of the day, her hands burned from the sharp points of the cotton bolls. “I had to do what I had to do,” she says. She went on to study at S.C. State University and Winthrop University. Joyce Hoyle is a museum volunteer. Hoyle, a speech/language pathologist in Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools, says she enjoys volunteering because of how much there is to learn, and the memories the museum prompts. Gazing at a wall of photographs, she notes that she knows some of the individuals. Guthrie hopes eventually to expand the Gastonia museum and move to a larger space. In February 2020, the museum will celebrate its first anniversary. Guthrie has been working on securing a grant to rent a touring exhibit from the National Center for Children’s Illustrated Literature, “Everyday People: The Art of James E. Ransome.” Ransome, born in North Carolina, is an African American children’s book illustrator and author. He is scheduled to speak at a visual, literary and performing arts event at the museum. “This is really big. This is really, truly big,” Guthrie says. To learn more, visit www.blackhistorymuseumgastonia.org for additional information on the museum, including hours of operation. Admission is free. P

1 The African American Museum of History & Culture at Loray Mill in Gastonia features exhibits on the accomplishments of African Americans at the local, regional and national levels. The museum opened in February. 2 Dot Guthrie is the founder and executive director of the African American Museum of History & Culture at Loray Mill in Gastonia. 3 The Little Korner Bookshop inside the African American Museum of History & Culture at Loray Mill in Gastonia highlights the work of African American authors and illustrators.

September-October 2019 | Pride Magazine

Crowning the Beauty Within I By Angela Lindsay

n a social media climate that glorifies eyelash extensions, lace front wigs, claw-like artificial nails and butt implants, a local program is celebrating all-natural beauty and empowering young women to embrace their own.Founder Vernisha Crawford saw a need for such a program when she realized how much time and money she was spending on her external appearance. Curious if other women were doing the same, she created a small poll online asking more than 50 women of color how much time they spent on their hair each week on average. The result—12 hours per week.

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“If you think about it, 12 hours a week is 48 hours a month. That’s a full-time job with eight hours of overtime. And maybe enough time to read five books,” she says. “That’s just time spent on hair, not makeup or anything else we do to get ready. When I realized what I could do with my time and money, I told myself every woman needs to become aware of this.”Crawford knew she wanted to positively influence young girls, as well as older women. The Miss All Natural Pageant was born from this desire. The program is for female students ages 14-18, with the goal of “shifting the focus of young ladies from external pressures to

personal development in (the) hopes (of) increas(ing) interest and opportunities in the STEM, criminal justice and mental health fields.â&#x20AC;? The contestants participate in a 12-week program of personal development workshops, rehearsals, community events and other activities designed to build mental capacity, increase self-love and promote collaboration among peers, to bridge the gap between social and emotional health and personal economic success. They discuss topics such as friendships, communication, stress/trauma, goal setting, body image, self-awareness, community advocacy, school issues, adult relationships, public speaking, interview skills, meditation/mental health and other subjects. After each workshop, participants are prepped for the actual pageant, in which

they have the option of competing (all naturally, of course), to earn the chance of winning a $2,500 scholarship.This year, the program started with more than 75 young women. Of those, 11 competed in the pageant and received scores based on a variety of criteria, such as an interview, a platform speech and talent. The contestants were students from West Mecklenburg, Phillip O. Berry and Harding University high schools. The program, Crawford says, gives young women at Title One schools â&#x20AC;&#x153;exposure that extends beyond the capacity of the schools. With restricted budgets and limited capacity (in those schools), Miss All Natural brings community volunteers and community partners to the schools to bring experiences to these young women.

"Charlotte has welcomed this program with open arms. Miss All Natural has received support from small businesses, vendors, community leaders and organizations, and more," - Vernisha Crawford

The 2019 Miss All Natural Pageant contestants - L to R Aniya Pierre, Jessica Gonzalez, Destiny Williams (front), Vinesha Johnson (behind Destiny), Dayyona Dunifer (front, red dress), Imani Reid (pink hair, behind Dayyonna), Amele Ketevi (behind the Queen), Efuru Cole-Brewer (2019 Queen), Lexci Robinson, Leah Reid and Shaiann Austin-Allison

September-October 2019 | Pride Magazine

"Natural is what you are before the makeup, before the hair and nails. It’s who you are before others’ opinions affect who you are. If you don’t enjoy who and what that is, then you haven’t sat with yourself to collect and understand that part of you." - Efuru Cole-Brewer, reigning Miss All Natural queen

Carin

“Charlotte has welcomed this program with open arms,” she says. “Miss All Natural has received support from small businesses, vendors, community leaders and organizations such as the Charlotte Mecklenburg Police Department, Discovery Place, Leading On Opportunity, and more,” Crawford says. “Our community understands the hardships and pressures our young women go through. For years, they have been told to look the part or fake it ‘til you make it, and, unfortunately, those things just don’t work anymore. This program teaches our young women to be authentic, real and of substance.”Throughout the process, Crawford says, the feeling of a competition among the girls begins to fade, and they start to accept what they look like without all the artificial enhancements. “It’s a big deal. They begin to see themselves as role models for others, and (are) proud of the confidence they have in their natural state,” she adds. The program’s aims are clearly having an impact.

“Natural is what you are before the makeup, before the hair and nails,” says Efuru Cole-Brewer, a Harding University High School rising junior and the reigning Miss All Natural queen. “It’s who you are before others’ opinions affect who you are. If you don’t enjoy who and what that is, then you haven’t sat with yourself to collect and understand that part of you.” It’s a part of the most important lesson ColeBrewer says she learned from going through the program: “If you accept yourself, it’ll be easier to accept others for who they are. “I learned that being amazing is OK that showing how bright you shine in your own light is OK,” she adds. “Miss All Natural is an opportunity to explore who you are and express that being in its most raw of forms. Knowing that I have the honor of representing this symbol of self-love is amazing. This means that I was chosen to be one of the voices to convey what this program can do for you, and I appreciate it so much.” P

COMES NATURALLY.

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Pride Magazine | www.pridemagazineonline.com

SceneandSeen

7th Annual Hearts of Champions Gala at The Park Expo and Conference Center. Photos courtesy of Village HeartBEAT.

The Kaleidoscope Group 30th Year Celebration at the Kimpton Tryon Park Hotel. Photos by Kevin Douglas of Captured by Kevin.

September-October 2019 | Pride Magazine

The Equalizer

Metrolina Internal Medicine is committed to improving health outcomes in Charlotte’s Black Community By LaShawn Hudson

hen Deborah Walker and her daughter relocated to Charlotte from Birmingham, Ala., nearly two decades ago, at the top of her to-do list was to find a great physician. After searching extensively, she was referred to Dr. Clarence Ellis. “He was among a group of African American doctors that were doing work around health disparities in communities of color,” explains the south Charlotte resident. “That upped my respect for him. I booked an appointment and we just hit it off.” From her initial doctor’s visit in the early 2000s, Walker says she has partnered with Ellis to establish and maintain optimum health. “When the test came back that I was prediabetic, he talked me through it and gave me options.” she explains. “He didn’t try to push me or shove me into doing something that I didn’t want to do.” Walker, a baby boomer, says Ellis’ medical guidance, and her own will to fight back, worked together to improve her health. “I never wanted to have to take insulin,” she explains. “He could’ve said ‘I’m the doctor and I know best,’ but that wasn’t his position.” Walker is among many patients at Metrolina Internal Medicine (MIM) who say they have entrusted Ellis, Dr. Karlton Pettis and nurse practitioner Felicia Harrell with their primary care needs. “The model of our practice is for our patients to build personal relationships with our practitioners, which leads to better care for our patients,” explains Pettis. MIM is a Black-owned and privatelyoperated primary care practice in Charlotte that specializes in the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of nonsurgical diseases. The company has two facilities, generally caring for patients 18 and over. Its main office is located in Charlotte’s hospital district

Pride Magazine | www.pridemagazineonline.com

Dr. Karlton Pettis

on Randolph Road, with a second office located in north Charlotte on North Tryon Street. Ellis, who cofounded MIM in 1998, says the practice was created to provide a space for physicians of color to provide optimal, compassionate health care services. For 20-plus years, Ellis and his team have worked to create an environment that’s inclusive and

diverse,: welcoming all people, no matter their ethnicity, cultural background or socioeconomic status. “There’s a long history of people of color not having a great experience with traditional health care in this country,” explains Ellis, 65. “It’s a white male-dominated service, for the most part, and people of color have not been welcomed in many places.”

Dr. Clarence Ellis

The Tuskegee Experiment and the case of Henrieta Lacks, the black woman whose cells were taken without consent and later used extensively in medical research, remain historical nightmares that aid in building distrust among Black patients and white doctors. “The ability to care for people is a lot greater when you share a lot with them,” explains Ellis. “Physicians of color can make a big difference when it comes to caring for patients of color, because they share familiarity: cultural background, language and social challenges. Data collected by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) show that MIM’s work to address health disparities in communities of color is much needed. A growing body of research suggests that social factors and health risks, such as obesity, smoking, unemployment and poverty, all contribute to widening health disparities among this population. The CDC also reports that African Americans are living with and dying from many conditions that are found in white Americans at older ages. However, medical studies suggest, Black patient outcomes are better when they are treated by a Black doctor. By providing in-house testing and partnering with local churches and community organizations to spread awareness, Pettis says, MIM doctors go the extra mile to prevent diseases such as high blood pressure, diabetes and strokes among their patients. “The greatest health challenge facing African Americans is cardiovascular disease,: meaning heart attacks and strokes,” explains Pettis, 49. “Cardiovascular disease is almost always preventable.” Ellis says MIM remains strong and solvent because patients come first. “The way medicine works is that you tend to care for people as if they are in your own personal circle,” explains Ellis. “We see our role in the community is more than an opportunity to make money. A large part of what we do is community service” P

September-October 2019 | Pride Magazine

PrideHealth By Tonya Jameson

Seniors Stay Healthy with Friends and Fitness

1 Chair aerobics at Rockwell AME Zion with Smith-Bey leading the way. 2 Smith-Bey explains logging on to his YouTube channel for exercise videos to a participant. 3 Mitchell Smith-Bey 4 Chair aerobics at Rockwell AME Zion.

Pride Magazine | www.pridemagazineonline.com

nside the community room at Greater Bethel AME Church, music blared as arms reached toward the ceiling and bodies swayed. Laugher rang out as the group’s leader called out the steps. “Push it away,” Mitchell Smith-Bey called out, “hot dogs, push it away, hamburgers, push it away.” “French fries,” a woman panted, as she swept her arm in front of her body as if she was pushing through a crowd of people. “Push it away,” yelled Smith-Bey. This was what staying active looked like for a group of seniors in east Charlotte, many of whom are members of the church’s Young at Heart club, as well as the Mecklenburg County Health Department’s Village HeartBeat program. According to the National Council on Aging, less than a third of seniors, people ages 65 and up, get the recommended amount of moderate daily exercise, which is 30 minutes a day, five days a week. In Charlotte, seniors are finding ways to stay active through their churches, and many are members of fitness centers such as the YWCA and the YMCA, which have tailored programs to accommodate this growing population. “There’s old and then there’s oooollllddd,” said Doreen West, 66, after Smith-Bey’s chair aerobics class at Greater Bethel. “You gotta keep up with your grandchildren and the folks around you. You don’t want to be the feeble grandma.” West was one of about 10 people who participated in the 30-minute class, which featured a mix of standing and sitting aerobics. Some of the seniors were mobile enough to stand for most of the class, which did not include jumping or fast movements. Others remained seated, but kept moving their legs and arms above their hearts to keep their blood flowing. The church members also have weekly walking groups.

Smith-Bey, 55, launched his chair aerobics class in the late ‘90s at a local YMCA. He designed it with the same movements found in regular aerobics classes, but the movements are done while seated. The class started with six students, and it quickly grew to 40. He began working with the Village HeartBEAT program at Rockwell AME Zion. That class averages about 50 students for the 45-minute session, and participants have collectively lost 214 pounds, he said. Now, he’s expanded it to two additional churches each week. He said the health benefits are undeniable, but equally important is the socialization. Many of these adults live alone and typically socialize only through church activities. The group fitness classes are open to anyone in the community, whether or not they attend the host church, he said. “It gives seniors a place to go to and socialize during the week,” he said. “We’re here to be silly and serious.” Kirsten Sikkelee, executive director of the YWCA Central Carolinas, shares SmithBey’s perspective on senior fitness. “You want to see people staying healthy all throughout their life,” she said. Her facility is off Park Road, and people age 55 and older make up about 40 percent of the clientele, she said. The older members gravitate to water-based classes, such as Aqua Arthritis Energizer and Aqua Tai Chi. There’s the highly popular

low impact aerobics class called Move & Groove. The YWCA welcomes the older members, featuring images of them working out on the website. And the instructors reflect the clientele. There’s an 82-year-old yoga and Pilates instructor, and a 60-year-old yoga instructor. “It’s great,” Sikkelee said. “People can see themselves in their instructor.” P

Where students who learn differently... Belong, Believe, Succeed! For admissions information Portia York at 704.365.5490 pyork@croslandcomets.org johncroslandschool.org

September-October 2019 | Pride Magazine

Village HeartBEAT is the Grand Prize Winner of the Healthiest Cities & Counties Challenge

Dear Charlotte & Mecklenburg County, We made it through another successful season of Village HeartBEAT and are so grateful. The success of our village means we have intentionally developed trusted relationships, and worked together to fulfill Mecklenburg County’s vision of “Bringing Mecklenburg County” services to our residents. Thank you clergy, community partners and our brothers and sisters who continue to love, support and take the challenge to be healthy. We are excited about our new season and look forward to continuing to partner in order to build a healthy community – mind, body and spirit.

With Love and Gratitude, Mecklenburg County Public Health Community Engagement Team

JOIN THE Villag e He artB EA T MOVEMENT Building Education & Accountability Together A Mecklenburg County Initiative

Season 8 Kicks Off January 2020

Join Us Village HeartBEAT

Fellowship Walk Sat., Sept. 14, 2019 8am For More Details Visit www.VillageHB.org

For More information about recruitment or questions contact Cheryl S. Emanuel Cheryl.Emanuel@mecklenburgcountync.gov or 980 314 9027 PEOPLE, PRIDE PROGRESS, PARTNERSHIPS

WWW.VILLAGEHB.ORG

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IT’S A WRAP

Felicia Jackson’s Near-Nightmare Inspires a Lifesaving Product By LaShawn Hudson

elicia Jackson says she’ll never forget the day her son almost died. Back in 2002, Jackson along with her husband and their three children, were driving to a family outing. Things quickly took a turn for the worse when one of their daughters shared a piece of hard candy with her younger brother. “I remember looking in the backseat of our car, and I saw Markel choking to death on the candy,” says Jackson. “I started freaking out. I started yelling and screaming, telling my husband to pull over.” Jackson was certified in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) at the time. She was majoring in physical therapy in college, and worked full-time as an emergency room clerk at a hospital in her hometown of Chattanooga. “When my husband pulled over and passed me our son, I froze up,” explains Jackson, 47. “My mind went blank. All of my training and experience working in the medical field went out of the window.”

Felicia Jackson, creator of CPR Wrap.

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Luckily, Jackson’s husband quickly jumped into action and saved their [then] twoyear-old son’s life by using the Heimlich maneuver. Jackson says she had no idea that her son’s near-death experience would be the cornerstone of her future business. Determined to empower others who face similar life-threatening emergencies, in 2016 she debuted CPR Wrap, a medical-grade plastic overlay that you place on the chest and guides its users through CPR. Available in three different sizes: infant, child and adult, the disposable template has a mouthpiece and step-by-step CPR directions printed on its cover. “I invented CPR Wrap because I wanted to make sure that no one has to relive what I went through with my son,” recalls Jackson the serial inventor. CPR Wraps are currently sold online at Walmart, Amazon and www.cprwrap.com. They are $14.99. Jackson is currently partnering with European and American automakers to have CRP Wraps to be packaged with first aid kits in new automobiles. Jackson also recently patented the animal version for CRP Wrap.

How It Works

September-October 2019 | Pride Magazine

"I invented CPR Wrap because I wanted to make sure that no one has to relive what I went through with my son." - Felicia Jackson Jackson’s mentor and friend, Marco Perez, says CPR Wrap is an unprecedented product. “No one is going to read a CPR poster hanging on a wall in the midst of an emergency.” he explains. “People need CPR Wrap: It’s something they can hold in their hands while they perform CPR.” Statistics show Jackson’s product is needed, particularly in communities of color. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), about nine in 10 people who have cardiac arrest outside the hospital die, but CPR can help improve those odds. If it is performed in the first few minutes of cardiac arrest. Additionally, the CDC reports, people in low-income, Black and Hispanic neighborhoods are less likely to receive CPR from bystanders than people in high-income, white neighborhoods. Jackson says the idea for the product stemmed from the many years she replayed what happened to her son, invoking feelings of powerlessness and anger. It would take years and a lifesaving dream to shift her energy to solutions. “I had a dream or vision,” Jackson says. “In the dream, someone was rendering CPR and the victim had a plasticlike mask laying on their chest. When I woke up from the dream, I traced it onto a piece of paper.” It would take 14 years for Jackson’s dream to become a reality. Her career trajectory repositioned after she met a woman at a book club meeting in 2010 who was facilitator of LAUNCH Chattanooga, a nonprofit agency that helps minorities launch startups. While on her quest to save lives, Jackson has bypassed several of life’s roadblocks. “I put my family in jeopardy,” she admits. “I quit my job without telling my husband first. I drained my 410 (k). We lost our car and we almost lost our home.” In spite of challenges, Jackson continued. CPR Wrap has landed her before judges on ABC’s “Shark Tank,” and before “Black Enterprise Magazine” judges for a pitch competition in Charlotte. She has done her own TED Talk. And in April of 2019, she graduated from the heavyweight startup accelerator Techstars Austin. For more information about the CPR Wrap visit, www.cprwrap.com.

Pride Magazine | www.pridemagazineonline.com

PrideBusiness FYI

Compiled by Arvanna Smart

The Housing Partnership Announces New Senior Team Leader

Andria Quintero Named Charlotte Latin School's Next Lower School Assistant Head

The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Housing Partnership, Inc. (the Housing Partnership) has named Simone McDowell as vice president of communications and fund development. “For 30 years, the Housing Partnership has been a nonprofit pioneer in affordable housing, with a Simone McDowell continued interest in enriching and educating occupants for future economic success,” said Julie Porter, president of the Housing Partnership. In her new role, McDowell will work with internal and external stakeholders to promote the organization, increase brand awareness and cultivate community support. She will also oversee all communications programs, community and media relations, fund development and event planning. “The challenges that face affordable housing require an experienced and passionate staff,” said Porter. “Simone brings with her a proven track record and wide range of expertise, including corporate communications, media management and nonprofit organization, that will have a great impact on our mission.” McDowell’s former roles include a publicist at INSP, LLC, a freelance public relations and marketing consultant and a marketing and communications director at the American Heart Association. Through her experiences, she has created extensive communications plans, managed regional and national media opportunities and developed social media strategies.

Charlotte Latin School has named Andria Quintero assistant head of lower school. Quintero was previously at The Caedmon School in New York, a Montessori preschool and Montessori-inspired elementary school to grade five, where she was most recently the director of student learning and support. “Andria brings a wealth of experience in school leadership, including personnel Andria Quintero management, curriculum development and instructional practices,” said Mark Tayloe, head of lower school at Charlotte Latin. “She is highly relational and connected with everyone she encountered during her visit with us.” Quintero’s teaching and administrative experience includes creating and providing a rigorous, differentiated curriculum. She has served as a primary member of senior administrative teams responsible for hiring, managing, coaching and overseeing the development of teachers and students. “...Becoming an educator was a profound and defining moment in my life path. From my early work as a social worker, I had genuine concern for the well-being and intellectual progression of children,” said Quintero. Quintero’s work also includes researching and exploring current educational trends, including equity and justice issues, projectbased learning, service learning and STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts and math). “The shift to education came naturally. Once I stepped into a classroom, I knew in my heart this was the best place as a career for me to land,” said Quintero. “I know that the joy, wonder and curiosity that I have for education will be embraced and nurtured at Charlotte Latin.”

Charlotte student to be honored for outstanding volunteer service at award presentation Malika Rawal of Charlotte, a junior at Providence Day School, was presented with an engraved bronze medallion to recognize her selection as a Distinguished Finalist for North Carolina in the 2019 Prudential Spirit of Community Awards. The Prudential Spirit of Community Awards represent the United States’ largest youth recognition program based exclusively on volunteer community service. All middle and high schools in the United States were eligible to select a student or member for a local Prudential Spirit of Community Award last November. Two state honorees—one middle and one high school student—plus a select number of Distinguished Finalists from each state and the District of Columbia were selected based on criteria such as personal initiative, effort, impact and personal growth. Rawal cofounded a nonprofit organization that has collected more than 35,000 toiletries and more than 4,000 pairs of shoes for more than a dozen homeless shelters in North Carolina, and is now distributing toiletries and shoes in impoverished villages in India. The ultimate goal of Rawal’s “HelpHygiene Foundation” is to improve sanitation around the world in order to prevent the spread of infectious diseases. P

September-October 2019 | Pride Magazine

Mark Your Calendar By Shawn D. Allison, II

September 7

Enjoy some outdoor fun at the Bearden Music Series. Relax with your friends and family as you experience the sounds of smooth jazz staples Spyro Gyra, Dante Lewis and Kevin Whalum. Free, 6 p.m. Romare Bearden Park. 300 S. Church St.

September 26-27

October 17

September 28

October 26

The 2019 Black Mental Health Symposium is an annual solutions-based conference focused on improving mental health outcomes in Black communities. This conference will feature a host of guest speakers, award winners, panel discussions, vendors and hundreds of like-minded practitioners. 9201 University City Blvd. Blackmhsymposium.com Words, rhymes and stanzas come full circle in the inaugural QC Poetry Awards. Come out for a day of riveting performances from the city’s finest poets, followed by a special awards ceremony. $10-20. 4 p.m. Charlotte Art League. 4100 Raleigh St.

October 5

Prepare your palates for an afternoon of earthly delight at Charlotte VegFest 2019. Bring the family out for an entire day of vegan cooking demos, lectures, vendors, goodie bags, fellowship and much more. Free. 11 a.m. Park Expo & Conference Center. 800 Briar Creek Rd.

October 13-20

September 14

The National Coalition of 100 Black Women hosts its 10th anniversary gala honoring those who’ve uplifted Black women and girls through advocacy and empowerment in education, health and economics. Tickets start at $50. Ncbw-qcmc.org

Black Business Owners of Charlotte invites you to fill your stomach and soul at the third annual Charlotte Black Restaurant Week. Explore a number of the QC’s Black-owned restaurants and bars in a week full of meal specials, workshops, seminars and nonstop fellowship. Bboclt.com

September 18

October 15

Experience hip hop with a soulful twist as The Midnight Hour stops in the QC for a special one-night-only live show. Headed by ATCQ’s Ali Shaheed Muhammad and composer Adrian Younge, this dynamic duo will be joined with a 10-piece band and special guests for a night of music and magic. $25-35. 7:30 p.m. Amos’ Southend. 1423 S. Tryon St. Amossouthend.com

Bring your friends and family out to the third annual Charlotte UNITE Festival. This free multicultural event looks to unite people of all backgrounds in the QC to celebrate our city’s diversity and illustrate to the rest of the nation that the Queen City stands united. Enjoy food, live entertainment, speakers and more. Noon. NoDa Brewing Co. 2921 N. Tryon St.

Pride Magazine | www.pridemagazineonline.com

Experience the magic of one of the world’s most famous neighborhoods as Harlem 100 come to the Queen City. Created in collaboration with the National Jazz Museum and JMG Live, this multimedia show captures the essence of the Harlem Renaissance in a showcase honoring the era’s most dignified figures and institutions. Tickets start at $24.50. Carolinatix.org

The Sol Kitchen is ready to rock the spot as it proudly presents the sonic stylings of Butcher Brown: A Tribute To Fela. This eclectic instrumental quintet is poised to give you a night of indigenous-infused arrangements in honor of the father of Afrobeat, the late Fela Kuti. Tickets start at $22.50. 7 p.m. Amos’ Southend. 1423 S. Tryon St. Amossouthend.com Cheer on hometown heroes the Golden Bulls of Johnson C. Smith University as they celebrate their 2019 homecoming. It’s full of lots of events, parties, tailgating and a huge football game against Shaw University. Sport your blue and gold and support your hometown heroes. 100 Beatties Ford Rd. Jcsu.edu

October 27

Two of Motown’s biggest groups stop in the QC for a night of memorable music and energy—The Temptations and The Four Tops! Relive the harmonies of “My Girl,” “Can’t Help Myself,” “Sugar Pie, Honey Bunch,” “Ain’t Too Proud To Beg,” “Baby, I Need Your Lovin” and so many other classic tunes. Tickets start at $25. 7 p.m. Belk Theatre Carolinatix.org P

The most important

lessons in life are learned at home…

So Don’t Just Recycle…Recycle Right! Please just recycle the basic materials listed here in your curbside bin. Nothing else! Just because you wish it to be recycled, does not make it recyclable.

PLASTIC BOTTLES

CARDBOARD

CANS

CARTONS

PAPER

GLASS BOTTLES

CA NC ER SURVIVO R

R UNNER

GRANDMA

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