Welcome to the latest AHEC Newsletter with valuable health and education information!

Welcome to the South Texas AHEC e-Notes for February 2026

Learning Opportunities and Upcoming Events 

Follow Southwest Border AHEC on Facebook @southwestborder.ahec
 

Ama Tu Corazon. Dia de la Salud

February 10, 2026 from 9:30am to 12:00pm
Eagle Pass, Texas

In collaboration with the Consulado de México in Eagle Pass, Southwest Border AHEC participated in Ama Tu Corazón, a free community health event. Community members stopped by for free blood pressure and blood glucose screenings and to learn more about ways to care for their heart health through regular monitoring and early prevention. For more information, contact Bonifacio Vega at [email protected]

Southwest Texas College - Spring 2026 Transfer and Career Fairs 


  February 10th and 11th, 2026 

During the month of February, Southwest Border Area Health Education Center will participate in Southwest Texas College's Spring 2026 Career and Transfer Day events across its Eagle Pass, Uvalde, and Del Rio campuses. These events provide students with an opportunity to explore transfer pathways to four-year universities and learn more about the steps involved in continuing their education. Students can connect with college and university representatives, attend informational workshops, and receive guidance on degree programs, application processes, and scholarship opportunities. Career and Transfer Day offers a valuable setting for students to gather information and make informed decisions about their next academic steps. For more information, contact Bonifacio Vega at [email protected]

Community Presentation - Compassion Fatigue and Burnout


February 18, 2026

On February 18, 2026, SWB AHEC will present an educational session on compassion fatigue and burnout to community members in Eagle Pass, Texas. The event will be held in collaboration with Serving Children and Adults in Need (SCAN), an organization focused on reducing the occurrence of child abuse and neglect by reducing risk factors and strengthening protective factors through community collaboration. The session will provide participants with information on compassion fatigue and burnout, along with strategies to support personal well-being and resilience for those serving the community. For more information, contact Bonifacio Vega at [email protected]
 

 Promotoras En Accion (P.E.A.C.H.E.S.) - Corazon Saludable 
   February 25. 2026 from 6:00pm to 8:00pm
2252 E. Garrison St., Eagle Pass, Texas 

On February 25, 2026, Southwest Border Area Health Education Center will host its monthly Promotoras En Acción (P.E.A.C.H.E.S.) session. The session, titled Corazón Saludable, will focus on heart health, prevention, and everyday strategies to support cardiovascular wellness. It will provide community health worker learners with practical, easy-to-understand information on healthy habits, risk factors, and lifestyle choices that contribute to heart health. Participants will have the opportunity to engage in discussion, ask questions, and learn ways to apply heart-healthy practices in their daily lives, with an emphasis on prevention and long-term well-being within the community. For more information, contact Bonifacio Vega at [email protected]

Follow Mid Rio Grande Border AHEC on Facebook @AreaHealthEducationCenter

Draw the Line

Friday, February 20, 2026, 10:00am - 3:00pm
AHEC Office, 1505 Calle Del Norte, Ste 430, Laredo, TX 

Help your 6th grader thrive! Middle school is a big transition, and we are here to help. DRAW THE LINE is a free workshop where students learn to navigate friendships and decisions with confidence. Give your child the tools to set healthy boundaries in a space built just for them. Together, we are empowering the next generation! Scan the QR Code to register. For more information contact 956-712-0037 or email h[email protected]

AHEC Health Careers EXPO 2026

Friday, March 13, 2026 from 9:00am to 3:00pm
Laredo Medical Center, Tower B, First Floor, Community Center Room
1700 E. Saunders St, Laredo, TX

Ready to explore a career that saves lives? Step into the world of healthcare with hands‑on activities and meet the pros who make it happen. Scan the QR code to register. For more information contact 956-712-0037 or email [email protected]

Follow South Coastal AHEC on Facebook @SouthCoastalAHEC.CC
 

Spring CHW Course

February 5, 2026
Register at: https://forms.office.com/r/VaSWGAiAUM

South Coastal AHEC will be kicking off its Spring CHW Course on Thursday, February 5th. This course will run for 8-9 weeks, occurring each Thursday via the ZOOM platform. This course will be led by center director Belinda Flores. For more information, Call Belinda Flores, 361-881-8133.
 

Healthy Mom, Healthy Baby   
February 7, 2026

Each year Success By Six Coalition hosts an event focused on providing education to expecting parents. This includes breakout rooms with different topic discussions, a vendor room with free or low-cost resources in the area, and diaper giveaways. Each vendor decorates their table with hearts and love to create a warm and welcoming environment. For more information contact Brittany Serna at [email protected]
 

South Coastal CHW Association Meeting  
February 17, 2026 from 5:30 to 7:30pm
at The Purple Door, 4444 Corona Dr, Suite 139
RSVP at: https://forms.office.com/r/Yv2wzbJZf9

Each month, the South Coastal Community Health Worker Association meets to discuss upcoming events, needs in the community, and receive a continuing education credit. in February, participants are encouraged to bring gently used items to donate to The Purple Door Resale shop. This resale shop helps victims of domestic violence while giving them a sense of independence. For more information on The Purple Door, please visit their website.https://purpledoortx.org/ For more information, please contact Brittany Serna  at 361-881-8133.
 

The Heart of South Texas    
February 21, 2026 from 8:00am to 5:00pm
Texas A&M University Corpus Christi, University Center, Lonestar Ballroom 142     Register here: https://tamucc.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_blyE2xdCYsr5ipE

South Coastal AHEC is partnering with Texas A&M University Corpus Christi & Corpus Christi Medical Center to provide a Cardiovascular Innovation conference. Physicians and Nurses in attendance will receive 1 hour of CE. For more information, contact Scott Krall at361-881-8133
 

Bone Voyage

  February 27. 2026 from 7:15am to 2:00pm
Del Mar College Oso Creek, 7002 Yorktown Blvd Tres Grace Community Room
Register here: https://cbapn.enpnetwork.com/nurse-practitioner-events/148178-bone-voyage-ortho-symposium-2026#!registration

Set sail with us at the 2026 Spring Orthopedic Symposium-a master class in orthopedics led by the best in the 361. A symposium on basic orthopedic evaluation and examination of the musculoskeletal system. For more information, contact Scott Krall at 361-881-8133

Follow South Central AHEC on Facebook @SouthCentralTexasAHEC
 

Expressive Therapeutic Drumming - Connect, Release, and Re-Energize

March 7,, 2026 from 10:00am to 11:30am
The Ecumenical Center Headquarters, 8310 Ewing Halsell Drive, San Antonio

Experience the power of rhythm at- Expressive Therapeutic Drumming, a welcoming, community-centered drumming experience designed to reduce stress, boost energy, and strengthen connection. This session offers a safe and inclusive space where no musical experience is necessary. Drums and percussion instruments are provided, and individuals of all abilities are encouraged to participate. Through guided drumming, participants can release stress, energize the mind and body, and enjoy meaningful connection with friends, family, and community members. Expressive therapeutic drumming supports emotional well-being and creates a shared experience of relaxation, joy, and belonging - all while having fun.    ✔ Open to all abilities  ✔ No prior musical experience required  ✔ Drums and percussion provided. Led by a licensed occupational therapist, this program focuses on wellness, connection, and expressive release through rhythm. For more information email: [email protected] 

FREE Transfer on Death Deed Workshop - Who Will Inherit Your Property?  

February 21, 2026 from 12:00 to 2:00pm
St. Martin de Porres Church, 1730 Dahlgreen Ave, San Antonio, TX 78237

Join us for the Third Annual Free Transfer on Death Deed (TODD) Workshop on Friday, February 21, 2026. Learn how to properly transfer your property to your heirs and protect your home from being taken by the city, county, or state upon death. This workshop focuses on building personal wealth and ensuring your property passes according to your wishes. Special "Records on the Run" mobile services will be provided by the Bexar County Clerk's Office, with presenter Richard Acosta.  ✔ Open to the public ✔ Free of charge. Presented by Historic Neighborhood Development Corporation and St. Martin de Porres Church - Taller Gratuito sobre Escrituras de Transferencia por Fallecimiento    Acompáñenos al Tercer Taller Anual Gratuito sobre Escrituras de Transferencia de Propiedad por Fallecimiento (TODD) el viernes 21 de febrero de 2026. Aprenda cómo transferir correctamente su propiedad a sus herederos y evite que la ciudad, el condado o el estado se queden con su casa al fallecer. Este taller le ayudará a generar patrimonio personal y proteger su hogar. Habrá servicios móviles "Registros en Marcha" proporcionados por la Oficina del Secretario del Condado de Bexar. Presentador: Richard Acosta.  ✔ Abierto al público ✔ Entrada gratuita  Presentado por Historic Neighborhood Development Corporation y la Iglesia de San Martín de Porres. For more information contact Ludivina Hernandez at 210-209-3302
 

Aging Well Conference: Heart on Health

February 28, 2026 from 10:00am to 1:00pm
The Neighborhood Place, 3014 Rivas St, San Antonio, TX 78228
Register here: https://redcap.uthscsa.edu/REDCap/surveys/?s=EF8F4APLRTK9RD7T

Join us for the Aging Well Conference: Heart to Heart - Owning Your Heart Health. This free, public event empowers community members to take control of their heart health through practical lifestyle tips, early warning sign awareness, and guidance for managing heart disease or supporting a loved one. Attendees will enjoy community resources, free refreshments, bingo, and door prizes, along with an engaging presentation by special guest speaker Dr. Shreya Rao, whose work focuses on preventing heart disease and addressing health disparities. Whether you're looking to protect your own heart or care for others, this informative and welcoming event is for you-register today to save your spot! Call 210-793-7355.
 

Love Notes Teen Empowerment Camp
💖  March 9-12, 2026 from 10:00am to 2:30pm
The Neighborhood Place, 3014 Rivas St, San Antonio, TX 78228
Register here: https://redcap.link/LoveNotes26 💖

Looking for a meaningful way for teens to build confidence, learn life skills, and earn service hours? Love Notes Teen Empowerment Camp is a dynamic 4-day experience designed to help high school students develop healthy relationship skills and take charge of their future.  This interactive camp is open to all high school students (grades 9-12) and offers:  💡 Confidence-building activities and real-world skills  🎓 25 hours of service learning  📜 Certificate of Completion  🎁 Gift cards & giveaway items  🥤 Light refreshments provided  📝 Registration Deadline: Tuesday, March 3, 2026  For more information, contact Ariel Gomez at  📧 [email protected] or 📞 (210) 793-7355. Spots are limited-don't miss this opportunity for teens to learn, grow, and connect in a fun and supportive environment!

Follow Lower Rio Grande Valley AHEC on Facebook @lrgv.ahec
 

Are you at risk for Diabetes? ¿Está en riesgo de diabetes? 

Contact Quetzaly Zenil or Janie Escareño at 956-230-5144    

Are you at risk of diabetes? Would you like to participate in a type 2 diabetes prevention program?    The Lower Rio Grande Valley AHEC, in partnership with Unidos Contra la Diabetes and the American Diabetes Association, can connect you with programs accredited by the American Diabetes Association for free diabetes prevention classes in the Rio Grande Valley. For more information, please contact Quetzaly Zenil or Janie Escareño at (956) 230-5144.
¿Está en riesgo de diabetes? ¿Le gustaría participar en un programa de prevención de la diabetes tipo 2?     El Lower Rio Grande Valley AHEC, en colaboración con Unidos Contra la Diabetes y Asociación Americana de Diabetes, puede conectarlo con programas acreditados por la Asociación Americana de Diabetes para clases gratuitas de prevención de la diabetes en el Valle del Río Grande.    Para más información, comuníquese con Quetzaly Zenil o Janie Escareño al (956) 230-5144.
 

CHW Ambassador Training on Diabetes Prevention & Awareness   
February 18, 2026 from 10:00am to 1:00pm
New Horizon Health Center, 2137 E. 22nd Street, Brownsville, TX 78521
Register here: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/Z7HQ9YX

The Lower Rio Grande Valley AHEC, in partnership with Unidos Contra la Diabetes, will be hosting a CHW Ambassador Training in Spanish on February 18, 2026. If you have any questions, please contact Janie Escareño at [email protected] or at (956) 230-5144 or while completing the application, please contact Janie Abundes at [email protected]  
El Lower Rio Grande Valley AHEC, en colaboración con Unidos Contra la Diabetes, llevará a cabo una Capacitación de Embajadores para Promotores en español el 18 de febrero de 2026. Si tiene alguna pregunta, comuníquese con Janie Escareño en [email protected] o al (956) 230-5144, o mientras complete la solicitud, comuníquese con Janie Abundes en [email protected].
 

International Women's Day: "I Am Powerful and I Can Do It" 

Martes 31 de marzo. 10:00am to 1:00pm
Brownsville, Texas

The Texas Latina Institute and the Lower Rio Grande Valley Health Education Center (LRGV AHEC) are honored to invite you to celebrate International Women's Day: "I Am Powerful and I Can Do It"  We invite you to discover the various resources our community offers for your health and overall well-being through the information tables that will be available during the event. We look forward to having you join us for this very special celebration. For more information, please contact Kenia Aguilera at (956) 312-2577.
El Instituto de Latinas Texas y el Centro de Educación en Salud del Bajo Valle del Río Grande (LRGV AHEC) tienen el honor de invitarle a celebrar el Día Internacional de la Mujer: "Soy poderosa y puedo lograrlo".  Le invitamos cordialmente a descubrir los diversos recursos que nuestra comunidad ofrece para su salud y bienestar general. Contaremos con mesas de información disponibles durante todo el evento para brindarles orientación y apoyo.  Esperamos contar con su presencia en esta celebración tan especial.  Para más información, por favor contacte a Kenia Aguilera al (956) 312-2577.

The AHEC Scholars Program is Enrolling Health Profession Students!

The AHEC Scholars Program is an opportunity for certain health profession students (medical, advanced practice nursing, registered nursing, pharmacy, physician assistants, dentistry, graduate psychology, CHWs, graduate public health, social workers, and others) to participate in interprofessional healthcare team activities. The duration of the program is 1-2 years (depending on discipline), runs concurrently with a student’s academic curriculum, and concludes when the student graduates from their respective health profession program. In addition to educational and professional enrichment, the AHEC Scholars Program offers a $500 stipend, per year involved in the program, to help offset student costs.

If you are interested in applying please click here. The AHEC Scholars Program is explained in greater detail at https://stahec.uthscsa.edu/ahec-scholars-2. Alternatively, please contact Roni Vela by e-mail at [email protected] or by phone: 361-881-8133, for more information. 

Partner Announcements

South Texas Area Health Education Center Program Office
  UT Health - San Antonio
7703 Floyd Curl Drive | San Antonio, TX 78229 | 210-567-0482

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