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

South Texas AHEC Logos for 5 centers and program office

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

 

Learning Opportunities and Upcoming Events 

 

South Texas Area Health Education Center logo

Follow South Texas AHEC Programs on Facebook @SouthTexasAHEC
 

South Texas Area Health Education Centers Would Like Your Input!

This is a critical opportunity for community members to share their experiences, needs, and priorities related to health and well-being. 
Link/Enlace: https://redcap.link/STAHEC_CHNA
The Community Health Needs Assessment will close on the last day of June.

The CHNA helps us better understand what is happening in our communities by gathering information about health concerns, access to care and services, social and economic factors, technology use, and available resources. The information you share will be used to guide local health priorities, strengthen community-based programs, and support partnerships and funding efforts across South Texas. Most importantly, this process ensures that future decisions are informed by the voices of the people who live and work in these communities.

The survey is anonymous, available in English and Spanish, and takes approximately 15 minutes to complete. Every response matters, whether you are sharing a challenge, a strength, or an idea for improvement. We encourage you to complete the survey as soon as possible and help ensure that your perspective is included.

For more information, please contact Joe Zapata, Jr. at [email protected]

Please help us spread the word!
We encourage you to share the survey link and this message with friends, family members, coworkers, and community partners. The more people who participate, the more accurately we can reflect the needs and strengths of our communities.
 

South Texas AHEC 2026 Seminar Series

Don't miss these informative and educational sessions in 2026. Learn about Autism Spectrum Disorders in the Summer, and Mental Health and Resilience in Communities in the Fall during these 6 session seminar series programs.

Keep an eye on our newsletter, website, and Facebook for information on registration and topics. For more information, contact Joe Zapata at [email protected]


Parenting Teenagers

Did you miss the registration window for our Parenting Teens Lunch and Learn sessions? You can still watch the series and gain valuable information.

  • Session 1 - Understanding Teen Development and Communication
  • Session 2 - Building Healthy Parent Teen Relationships
  • Session 3 - Trauma Informed Parenting and Community Resources
  • Session 4 - Supporting Parents of Teens in Crisis

All are available to view on our YouTube channel. Additional sessions will be added as they are available. Check out the playlist here! https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLHB6IqXlpYbyl7PFcA-DuV0qPXkVQLxAd&si=h7eWl7NcXXwyuR1n. Give us a like and subscribe to our channel @thesouthtexasahecprogramsc688 to ensure you do not miss any future content.

Southwest Border AHEC logo of a cactus inside of a star

Follow Southwest Border AHEC on Facebook @southwestborder.ahec


Love Notes Teen Empowerment Camp

May 26-29, 2026 from 8:30AM - 12:00PM
3101 Bob Rogers Dr., Eagle Pass, Texas

Southwest Border AHEC is excited to host the Love Notes Teen Empowerment Camp, a program of UT Teen Health, for local high school students. Throughout the week, students will take part in activities and discussions focused on healthy relationships, communication, decision-making, and personal growth. The camp will provide a supportive space for students to build confidence, connect with others, and strengthen skills that can support them in school, relationships, and future goals. To register, scan the QR code above. For more information contact Bonifacio Vega at [email protected]

Mid Rio Grande Border AHEC Logo of a star with a bridge in the center

Follow Mid Rio Grande Border AHEC on Facebook @AreaHealthEducationCenter


Enjoy your Favorite Drink with A Mental Health Message

at PJ's Coffee
Fridays in May from 8:00am - 11:00am
1705 E Del Mar Blvd Ste 126A, Laredo, TX

The flyer promotes a mental health awareness initiative happening every Friday in May, starting May 1st, at PJ’s Coffee. Customers are invited to enjoy their favorite drink while receiving a mental health message. The event appears to be organized in partnership with the Mid Rio Grande Border AHEC to encourage mental wellness and community support.


Take A Break We Got Your Hair 
   
Thursday, May 28, 2026 from 4:00 to 6:00PM
1505 Calle Del Norte Suite 230, Laredo TX

This community initiative, “Take a Break, We Got Your Hair,” was created to support mental wellness by providing free haircuts to the community through a partnership between the Mid Rio Grande Border Mid Rio Grande Border AHEC and The Barber Education Academy. The program aimed to help individuals feel refreshed, confident, and supported while also promoting mental health awareness and connecting the community with important crisis support resources such as the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. Contact the Barber Education Academy at 956-608-3232

 

South Coastal AHEC logo of a star with a sail boat at the center

Follow South Coastal AHEC on Facebook @SouthCoastalAHEC.CC

IRT (Innovative Readiness Training)

Each year in July, Nueces County , South Coastal AHEC, and our community partners work to bring a week-long medical mission to those most in need. This year, to further expand these services, they will partner with the military. Leading up to this event, many planning meetings are taking place, some of which have occurred at the South Coastal AHEC office For more information, contact Belinda Flores at 361-881-8133.

 
Orange Grove Food Bank   

June 20, 2026
306 Voelkel Ave, Orange Grove, TX

Each month, South Coastal AHEC travels to Orange Grove and manages a food distribution. Through this food drive, over 100 individuals receive fresh, nutritious food. For more information contact: Brittany Serna  361-881-8133

 

Nueces County Physicals

 

April 30 through July 30, 2026
Various locations throughout Nueces County

April through July is Physicals season for South Coastal AHEC. Through partnership with CHRISTUS Residency program, Nueces County Commissioners, Texas A&M Nursing, and DelMar Nursing,  they provide free UIL-approved physicals for all Nueces County students. For more information contact Brittany Serna 361-881-8133.

South Central AHEC logo of a star with an image of the Alamo at the center

Follow South Central AHEC on Facebook @SouthCentralTexasAHEC

 

Expert Support for Perinatal Substance Use Care

Be Well Texas offers a free Perinatal Consultation Line that provides on-demand support for healthcare providers caring for pregnant and postpartum patients. Available Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, this service connects providers with experts who offer guidance on mental health and substance use care, including screening, treatment, recovery support, and coordinated referrals. The program is designed to build confidence in addressing perinatal substance use through evidence-based recommendations and is part of a statewide initiative to expand access to quality care across Texas.


It's All For Them

Vaccines are one of the most important tools parents have to keep their children healthy now and into the future, and adolescence is a critical time to ensure your child is up to date. Experts recommend several key vaccines for boys and girls during their teen years. The Tdap vaccine, recommended at ages 11–12, protects against tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis (whooping cough). The HPV vaccine, recommended starting at ages 9–12 and also available for adolescents 13–18 who have not yet completed the series, guards against human papillomavirus and several related cancers. The Meningococcal ACWY vaccine is recommended with a first dose at ages 11–12 and a booster at 16, while the Meningococcal B vaccine is recommended starting at age 16 — both protect against meningococcal disease, which can cause meningitis and life-threatening bloodstream infections. All for Them clinics provide a convenient opportunity for your child to receive these vaccines, including catch-up doses for those who may have missed earlier immunizations. For more information, visit allforthemvaccines.com or call 866-255-1811. This program is brought to you in partnership with UT San Antonio, UTHealth Houston School of Public Health, and the Cancer Prevention & Research Institute of Texas.


YWCA San Antonio's Women's Health Program,
in partnership with the Cancer Prevention & Research Institute of Texas

March - July 2026
YWCA - 503 CASTROVILLE RD SAN ANTONIO, TX, 78237

YWCA San Antonio's Women's Health Program, in partnership with the Cancer Prevention & Research Institute of Texas, is hosting free mammogram events at 503 Castroville Rd, San Antonio, TX 78237. Appointments are available on select dates in March, April, May, June, and July. To qualify, participants must be 40 years of age or older, have a mammogram order, and must not have had a mammogram appointment within the past year. Participants should also not be experiencing any symptoms such as a mass, skin color changes, breast pain, or nipple discharge, and should not be pregnant. To schedule an appointment, contact Arlene Mora or Barbara Garcia by calling (210) 433-9922 (Ext. 212 or 243), or reach them directly at (361) 277-9717 or (361) 277-9650. You may also email [email protected] or [email protected]. Please note that YWCA and the Women's Health Program will never ask for your Social Security number or require any payment, deposit, or wire transfer fees — if you qualify, this service is free of charge.
 

Stress less with Mindfulness Series

Session 4/5 held on  May 22, 2026 at 11:00am
DePelchin Children's Center, 215 Coca Cola Place, Stuie 203, San Antonio

The United Way Eastside Family Resource Center, in partnership with DePelchin Children's Center and Texas A&M AgriLife Extension, invites the community to join the **Stress Less with Mindfulness Series** — *"Building Resilience with a Healthier Mind."* The four-part series covers a range of mindfulness topics: Session 1 on February 27 focuses on Begin with the Breath, Session 2 on March 27 explores Mindful Eating, Session 3 on April 17 features Mindful Walking and Thought Surfing, and Session 4/5 on May 22 wraps up with Mindful Thinking and Mindful Laughter. To RSVP or for more information, contact Leticia Dominguez at 210-807-0037 or [email protected].
 

Integrating Play Therapy in Medical Settings:
Bridging Mental Health & Physical Health

June 26, 2026 from 9:00 to 11:00am
via Zoom https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/hpe2AWO6SSWxE8n0xLTYyQ#/registration

The University of Texas at San Antonio and UT Health San Antonio's PEP (Pitch Expanded Providers) program invite you to a virtual workshop titled "Integrating Play Therapy in Medical Settings: Bridging Mental and Physical Health." The workshop will feature guest speaker Sara Loftin, LPC-S, Registered Play Therapist-Supervisor, who has spent thirteen years as a Clinical Therapist on the Psychology Consult-Liaison Team at a prominent pediatric hospital in Dallas. Her work has included play therapy, Child-Parent Relationship Therapy, group therapy, and parent education for families and patients navigating a wide range of medical and mental health diagnoses. This is a wonderful opportunity for clinicians, educators, and community members interested in the intersection of mental and physical health care for children and families. To register, visit the registration link. For questions, contact [email protected].
 

2026 CHWs Across the Lifespan Summit

October 31, 2026 from 8:00am to 2:00pm
Family Service Neighborhood Place, 3014 Rivas St., San Antonio, TX

Get ready for an engaging and impactful event focused on health across every stage of life! Join us for the CHW Pre-Summit: Across the Lifespan, hosted by the American Public Health Association’s Community Health Worker Section in collaboration with Texas AHEC East – Piney Woods. Registration: $15. This dynamic summit will explore critical topics that impact communities at every age, including:

  • Maternal & Infant Health
  • Child & Adolescent Health
  • Young Adult Health
  • Older Adult Health
  • End-of-Life Care

Featured Keynote Speaker:  Eduardo Sanchez, MD, MPH, FAHA  Chief Medical Officer for Prevention, American Heart Association  Whether you're a Community Health Worker, healthcare professional, or passionate about improving community wellness, this is an opportunity to learn, connect, and be inspired.
 

Texas Health Steps - Critical Congenital Heart Disease Training

Now through July 11, 2028
register: https://www.txhealthsteps.com/course/3022?utm_source=cm-steps-other&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=course-announcement_cchd-ce&utm_content=cta-enroll-now

Interested in a training on  Critical Congenital Heart Disease? Provided by the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) and the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS). this module aims to  provide information regarding CCHD screening and integration of this into routine newborn care. Please note this module expires on 7/11/2028.For more information, visit: https://www.txhealthsteps.com/ 
 

Expressive Therapeutic Rhythm Making

June 6, 2026 from 10:00 - 11:30am
The Ecumenical Center Headquarters, 8310 Ewing Halsell Drive, San Antonio, TX 78229

Looking for a fun, stress-free way to connect with your community? **The Ecumenical Center is hosting Expressive Therapeutic Rhythm Making, a free, monthly drumming session held every first Saturday from 10:00 to 11:30 a.m. through 2026. Led by occupational therapist Jorge Ochoa, this welcoming program is open to all ages and abilities, with no musical experience required. Drums and percussion are provided. It's a wonderful opportunity to energize your mind and body, ease stress, and build meaningful connections with friends, family, and neighbors.  For more information, call 210.616.0885 or visit www.ecrh.org.
 

Free Public Health Camp for High School Students - Apply Now!
 
June 22 through 26, 2026

UT Health San Antonio is now accepting applications for the 2026 Public Health Camp, a free, week-long program for rising 11th and 12th graders taking place June 22-26, 2026, on the UT Health San Antonio campus (7703 Floyd Curl Dr.). Students will have the opportunity to explore careers in public health, participate in interactive workshops, and attend public health-focused field trips - all in a fun and dynamic environment. The camp runs Monday through Friday, 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM, and attendance is required all week. Lunch and snacks are provided at no cost. Please note that students must attend a mandatory orientation to enroll, and all final applicants will be reviewed by the planning committee. For more information or to apply, visit the registration link (https://redcap.link/PHCApp26) or contact [email protected].
 

Back to School Health & Wellness Fair

August 8, 2026
St. Martin de Porres Church, 1730 Dahlgreen Ave., San Antonio, TX 78237

This free, family-friendly event is designed to help students and families start the school year healthy and  prepared. Attendees can receive free vaccines, health screenings, and backpacks filled with school  supplies, along with valuable health information and the opportunity to participate in a Q&A session with a doctor and psychologist. With activities for  kids, face painting, door prizes, and community resources all in one place, this event reflects our  commitment to supporting the well-being of families  across San Antonio. For more information, contact Ariel Gomez, [email protected] or call 210-793-7355 

Lower Rio Grande Valley AHEC Logo of a star with a palm tree in the center

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

Salud en Mis Manos

Eres el pilar de tu familia, tu salud también importa.
Esta es la señal que necesitabas para planificar tus pruebas de detección temprana de cáncer de seno y cervical.
Tú puedes hacerlo (y estamos aquí para ayudarte). 
Podemos conectarte con servicios gratuitos o de bajo costo, para que no tengas que hacerlo sola. 
📞 Llama al (956)807-4314 o visita 🌐 go.uth.edu/Checate 

Health in My Hands

You are the foundation of your family—don’t forget to care for your health, too.
Here’s the sign you needed to schedule your early detection screening tests for breast and cervical cancer.
You can do this—and we are here to help.
We can connect you to free or low-cost services, so you do not have to figure it out alone.
📞 Call (956)807-4314 or visit 🌐 go.uth.edu/GetChecked

South Texas AHEC Scholars Program Logo

The AHEC Scholars Program is Enrolling Health Profession Students!

Image of AHEC scholars flyer with QR cade to webpage

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

 

Salud America Logo that is an image of an apple

8 Big Actions for Skin Cancer Awareness Month

Read more at Salud America!

 
 
 

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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