Welcome to the latest AHEC Newsletter with valuable health and education information! | |  | | | | | Welcome to the Fall 2023 South Texas AHEC Newsletter | | | | Recent Successes | Future Events | Learning Opportunities | Health News | | | | | | Recent Successes  Follow Southwest Border AHEC on Facebook @SWBAHEC Community Health Worker Certification Program
 El dia 14 de Julio celebramos a todos los estudiantes de nuestro grupo de certificación/entrenamiento de verano Promotor de Salud/ Community Health Worker! Esto es un paso más hacia las cosas grandes que van a lograr! Su esfuerzo y su dedicación es admirable y les deseamos lo mejor en sus siguientes proyectos! FELICIDADES! Para mas informacion: Jacqueline Vasquez, chw@swb-ahec.org Science Enrichment Camp
 SWB AHEC hosted a four-day Science Enrichment camp on July 17-20th, 2023. Eagle Pass ISD Science teacher, Ms. Alejandra Martinez & Slo-Mo, facilitated a 4-day Science Enrichment Camp to incoming 4th-6th graders! Students learned about physical and chemical changes and engaged in science enrichment activities. Thank you Ms. Alejandra Martinez for such a fun week! For more info, email: info@swb-ahec.org AHEC Scholars Recruitment
  
Successful AHEC Scholars Recruitment at Southwest Texas College! About 100 students participated in the Registered Nursing and Licensed Vocational Nurse new student orientation. All students were provided with information regarding the AHEC Scholars program. The AHEC Scholars Program is an opportunity for students currently enrolled in a health professions school to participate in interprofessional education (IPE) healthcare activities. Southwest Border AHEC wishes all incoming LVN/RN students at Southwest Texas College a great school year! For more information visit https://www.swb-ahec.org/ahec-scholars or email GonzalezM31@uthscsa.edu Health Science Enrichment Academy
  
Health Science Enrichment Academy for the books! AHEC would like to congratulate all the students who participated during the Health Science Enrichment Academy! We are very proud of your accomplishment and are impressed with your level of knowledge and commitment. Thank you to all the organizations who contributed to make this happen- Department of State and Health Services, Southwest Texas College, Eagle Pass Waterworks, Back to Action Physical Therapy, United Medical Centers, Air Evac Lifeteam 57 - Eagle Pass, TX For more info, email: info@swb-ahec.org Community Platica
 
Community Platica at Southwest Texas Community College The Community Platica took place Saturday, September 2, 2023, in Eagle Pass, Texas at Southwest Texas College. Dr Sara Masoud facilitated the bilingual Community Plática for over 50 participants. Participants provided insightful information regarding their lived experience(s) living and/or caring for someone with dementia. Thank you Dr. Sara Masoud and team for bringing such needed pláticas to our community! For more info, email: info@swb-ahec.org Community Health Worker Certification Program
Community Health Worker Certification Program Orientation was held September 6, 2023 Community Health Worker training orientation was held on Wednesday, September 6, 2023 at 6pm. Important information regarding the CHW training course was given. https://www.swb-ahec.org/event-details/community-health-worker-training-english-informational-session-1 For more info, contact Jacqueline Vasquez, chw@swb-ahec.org | | | |  Follow South Central AHEC on Facebook @SouthCentralTexasAHEC A Summer Packed with Outreach Events 
  This summer has been a busy time for our Center, with multiple back-to-school/outreach events across South Texas. We are thankful for the continued partnerships that have invited us to participate in the following events: Grace Pavillion Back-to-School/Health Fair, Bexar County- July 22nd
Karnes Resource Fair, Karnes County- July 22nd
Pearsall ISD Back-to-School Fair, Frio County - August 4th
Dilley ISD Back to School Fair, Frio County - August 8th There were over 300 who attended our outreach events, and it was a great time to reengage with the community and other local organizations. Health professions students from many disciplines helped staff with the outreach activities and reported they were so pleased to have participated. We provided free school supplies to the students and COVID-19-related information to others! For more information, contact Ariel Gomez at GomezA6@uthscsa.edu UTSA Interns 
(L-R) Bailee Baquet, Chimerem Ugwokaegbe, Trinity Oliver, and Eesha Navaid What a wonderful way to start the new school year! We are very glad to welcome our newest undergraduate interns from UTSA. Bailee Baquet, Chimerem Ugwokaegbe, Trinity Oliver, and Eesha Navaid are in their final semester studying Health and Public Health. Interns are wonderful additions to our work and essential in planning our community outreach events for the fall. We look forward to working with new talents and future public health professionals/leaders and hope you will join us welcome them to our center!. For more info, contact Ariel Gomez: GomezA6@uthscsa.edu Dietetic Interns from UTSA
  Dietetic Interns from UTSA's Nutrition and Dietetics Program interns. Eden Gonzales and Kaelin Ramos will work with us this Fall semester to create culturally appropriate, diabetic-friendly recipes for our community. We are looking forward to our time with them and hope they have a great immersive experience with our center! Our interns bring us new learning and we work to provide them with great experiences and networks that will increase their success as they move toward their professional careers. For more information, contact Ariel Gomez at GomezA26@uthscsa.edu Chat at the Quiosco
Monthly Presentation. Topic: Prediabetes In August, we hosted our monthly educational series, "Chat at the Quiosco," and focused on the prevention of pre-diabetes progression. The program was presented at our satellite office at The Neighborhood Place by 2nd year Family Medicine Resident, Dr. Elliana Yap. The group of over 13 community members attended as Dr. Yap explained hemoglobin A1C, pre-diabetes, and diabetes number ranges to be mindful of. She discussed the complications that can happen if pre-diabetes progresses to diabetes and gave options for decreasing the diabetes risk. Participants were given resources to help with implementing choices and managing gradual changes in their daily lives. Chat at the Quiosco allows for bi-directional learning between the community and presenters and has been provided monthly since late 2021. For more information, contact Ariel Gomez at GomezA26@uthscsa.edu NATIONAL COMMUNITY HEALTH WORKER UNITY CONFERENCE
  AHEC Colleagues Martha Castillo and Ludivina Hernandez presented in Austin at the National CHW Unity Conference in August. The title of the presentation was "A Call to Take Action Developing CHW COVID-19 Health Equity Workgroup" and was well received by the attending audience. Other South Texas AHEC Center staff also attended. All 5 South Texas AHEC Centers worked together at an exhibit table at the conference. For more information contact Ludy Hernandez, HernandezLV@uthscsa.edu SAN ANTONIO FOOD BANK
 Congratulations to Ezra Ortiz of the San Antonio Food Bank for his hard work to get a SA Food Bank Pantry to Pearsall, Texas and Frio County. Ezra is a member of the Frio TAB and a strong supporter of community engagement events that increase the opportunity for families to have healthy food choices. Working with TAB members and many other volunteer organizations in Frio County, the SA Food Bank realized there was strong support for a pantry in Pearsall. We are proud to share this news! For more info, contact MartinezS31@uthscsa.edu | |  Follow South Coastal AHEC on Facebook @SouthCoastalAHEC.CC South Coastal AHEC Scholars Helping the Community
  
June 22, 2023 Calallen High School South Coastal AHEC Scholars held the annual Calallen Physicals and Health Fair. In addition to assisting with physical exams, Scholars had the opportunity to work with other community organizations, learn about the resources in the community, and get to know the specific barriers to health care individuals in the community face. For more information, call: 361.881.8133 South Coastal Scholars Assist with Food Distribution
 
July 15, 2023 - El Buen Pastor, Orange Grove, TX South Coastal AHEC's newest Scholars braved the summer heat and pulled up their sleeves to help with the monthly Food Distribution in Orange Grove, TX This experience provided a unique opportunity to assist with the distribution, get to know community members, other volunteers, and organizations in the area. Thank you Scholars! For more information, call: 361.881.8133 Operation Health and Wellness - Innovative Readiness Training (IRT)
 
July 2023 - rural locations in Nueces County The military's innovative readiness training (IRT) mission provided a 2-week clinic at 3 different locations throughout the rural areas of Nueces County. The community received medical, dental and behavioral health care services at no-cost. South Coastal AHEC was the local lead for the clinics in partnership with our local health department and other local health care agencies that provided different medical services to our community. The mission was made possible by the Nueces County Judge and Commissioners, Texas A&M Colonias and our military. South Texas was recognized for helping with the IRT mission held in July. For the third consecutive year, South Coastal AHEC played an integral part of the successful completion of this mission. For more information, call: 361.881.8133 CCPD 2023 Back to School Event
  
August 5, 2023 - Operation Safe Return South Coastal AHEC was proud to announce their participation at the Annual Back to School event Operation Safe Return held at the American Bank Center put on by the Corpus Christi Police Department. The last time this event was held was in 2019, due to COVID. It was exciting to be a part of such an amazing bash! UIL School Physicals , Immunizations, school supplies and backpacks were just a few things that we offered to our community kids to help them get back to school. We were not only there to provide education for Salud En Mis Manos, we also provided goodies and school supplies. For more information, call: 361.881.8133 Taft ISD Back to School Fair
August 8, 2023 - Woodroe Petty Elementary, Taft, TX South Coastal AHEC partnered with Taft ISD for a back to school health fair. CHWs helped provide school supplies, along with some goodies and information on Salud En Mis Manos, a breast and cervical cancer prevention program. We are happy to have been able to serve our community and provide much needed services to this rural area. For more information, call: 361.881.8133 HUD Strong Families Event
 
August 10, 2023 in Robstown, TX South Coastal AHEC was invited to participate at the local HUD Strong Families Event in Robstown TX. This event was focused around bringing families together to grow and thrive and one. SCAHEC AHEC was there to provide families with different types of resources including diabetes, breast cancer prevention and early detection. For more information, call: 361.881.8133 Bishop CISD Student Health Clinic
 
August 10, 2023, BIshop High School In partnership with Commissioner Joe A. Gonzalez (JAG), Bishop CISD and Driscoll Health Plans we are pleased to have been able to offer Back to School UIL Physicals, Immunizations and backpacks to our local rural community. Additionally we were also able to provide BMI information, breast and cervical cancer information to the local communities. For more information, call: 361.881.8133 Keach Library Family Place WorkShop
  
August 24, 2023 - Keach Library South Coastal AHEC was invited to join the Keach Family Library Family Place WorkShop. Local caregivers, parents and children are invited to participate in a 5 week course which allows everyone to spend some quality time and get local health and development resources for the entire family. SCAHEC CHWs attended to provide information and assistance to women needed for breast and cervical prevention and early detection. We are excited to attend upcoming months For more information, call: 361.881.8133
Community Health Worker Course Completion
August 2023, Coastal Bend Wellness Foundation Congratulations to the fall CHW class! For more information about becoming a certified Community Health Worker, call: 361.881.8133 Their Day Foundation Health Fair 2023
  
September 3 - American Bank Center South Coastal AHEC CHWs participated at an event that had several health resources come together to provide health education to our community including CPR sessions, giant organ balloons, immunizations, UIL sports mixed with music, food and fun! The first of its kind and fabulous! For more information, call: 361.881.8133 | |  Follow Lower Rio Grande Valley AHEC on Facebook at @lrgv.ahec LRGV AHEC Students Present on Health Topics
   As part of their training to become Texas Certified Community Health Workers (CCHWs), students at LRGV AHEC school must give presentations on health topics of their choice. Recent topics have included depression, DiGeorge syndrome, and animal cruelty. In their presentations, students demonstrate their knowledge of the topic, as well as their ability to communicate effectively with an audience. They also discuss resources that are available to people who are affected by these health problems. In addition, students methods to advocate for these health concerns, so that people can make informed decisions about their health. The presentations are an important part of the CCHW training program. They help students to develop their communication skills and to learn how to effectively educate others about health issues. The presentations also help to raise awareness of important health topics in the community. For more info, contact: Juana Escareno, escareno@lrgvahec.com LRGV AHEC Participates in Benefits Fair & BBQ to Support Veterans
  In oservance of Independence Day, LRGV AHEC participated in a Benefits Fair & BBQ outreach event at the Harlingen VA Texas Valley Health Care on July 4, 2023. The event was organized to provide veterans with information about benefits and services available to them, as well as to listen to their concerns. LRGV AHEC staff and students were on hand to answer questions and provide resources. They also distributed information about the CCHW certificate program, which is designed to train community health workers to provide care to underserved populations. The event was a success, and many veterans were able to get the information and assistance they needed. LRGV AHEC is committed to supporting veterans, and this event was just one way that the organization is fulfilling that commitment. Juana Escareno, escareno@lrgvahec.com LRGV AHEC Graduates Six New Community Health Workers
  Six students graduated from the Texas Certified Community Health Worker (CCHW) program at LRGV AHEC on Thursday, September 7, 2023. The graduation ceremony was held at the LRGV AHEC headquarters in Edinburg, Texas. Family and friends gathered to congratulate the graduates on their achievement. Many of the graduates already have employment lined up, while others are still looking for jobs. LRGV AHEC is committed to supporting its graduates in their careers, and will continue to offer them Continued Education (CE) courses as required by the state of Texas to keep their certification active. The graduation ceremony was an important event for the students, as it gave them a sense of accomplishment and boosted their confidence. One student said, "This is my first graduation ever, and it makes me feel like I've accomplished something." Another student said, "It was very special for my family to see me graduate. I hope this inspires my children to complete their education." LRGV AHEC is proud of its graduates, and is confident that they will make a positive impact in the community as CCHWs. For more information, contact Juana Escareno, escareno@lrgvahec.com Blue Tie Affair: A Men's Health Awareness Event   The Blue Tie Affair is an annual event that is hosted by Cameron County Public Health and the City of Harlingen to raise awareness of men's health issues. The event features a variety of activities, including health screenings, educational presentations, and a 5K walk/run. LRGV AHEC collaborated in the event by providing information on the prevention of prediabetes and diabetes. The AHEC Scholars and Community Health Worker students also had the opportunity to complete their practicum hours by volunteering at the event. The Blue Tie Affair is a great way to raise awareness of men's health issues and encourage men to take charge of their health. It is also a great opportunity for men to learn about the importance of early detection and treatment of diseases. For more information email: Juana Escareno, escareno@lrgvahec.com Operation Border Health Preparedness (OBHP) in Willacy County 
 Operation Border Health Preparedness (OBHP) is an annual event that is organized by the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) to help the community get ready for disasters. The event is held in various locations along the South Texas border, and it is made possible by local partners, including LRGV AHEC. During OBHP, free medical, vision, veterinarian, and health information services are offered to the community. In addition, there are educational presentations and other activities that are designed to help people learn about disaster preparedness. In Willacy County, OBHP was held on July 25-28, 2023. LRGV AHEC collaborated in the event by providing health information on the prevention of prediabetes and diabetes. The AHEC Scholars and Community Health Worker students also had the opportunity to assist other agencies and complete their practicum hours. OBHP is a valuable resource for the community, and it helps to ensure that people are prepared for disasters. The event is also a great opportunity for people to learn about their health and how to stay healthy. For more info contact, Juana Escareno, escareno@lrgvahec.com LRGV AHEC Staff Attends Community Platica on Dementia Care
 
Community Platica in Eagle Pass, TX Staff from LRGV AHEC attended the Community Platica on Dementia Care on September 2, 2023, hosted by South Texas AHEC, Southwest Border AHEC, and Southwest Texas Junior College at Eagle Pass. The event was attended by caregivers, people living with dementia, and members of the community. The Platica provided an opportunity for attendees to share their experiences and learn about resources available to them. Speakers discussed topics such as the signs and symptoms of dementia, the challenges of caregiving, and how to get support. The Platica was a success, and attendees said that it was a valuable resource. They appreciated the opportunity to connect with others who are going through the same thing, and they found the information to be helpful. LRGV AHEC will be hosting the next Platica in Raymondville, Texas on Saturday, October 28, 2023. For more information, please contact LRGV AHEC at 956.230.5144. Juana Escareno, escareno@lrgvahec.com | | | | Future Events & Learning Opportunities | | Follow Southwest Border AHEC on Facebook @SWBAHEC
PEAAKS Program
Registration is Now Open! If you are interested in learning more about health professions, hands on learning and engaging with healthcare professionals, the PEAAKS program is for you! Register at https://forms.gle/JEFmCMvAre6Zainw5 For more information about PEAAKS please visit www.swb-ahec.org/peaaks, call 830.758.1111.or email info@swb-ahec.org | | | | Follow South Central AHEC on Facebook @SouthCentralTexasAHEC 
September is get your free library card month! Visit my.sapl.org for more information. AGING PROJECT IN FRIO COUNTY
October 10th at the Pearsall Library from 10-12 Noon Earlier this year, under the guidance of Alvin Estacio, Frio County Translational Advisory Board (TAB) was awarded a S5,000 community engagement grant to focus on the aging needs of rural Frio County. To move the project forward, TAB members, have been working on conducting focus groups across Frio County. Throughout the discussions, the community expressed a consistent and prevalent need for improved communication from organizations regarding upcoming events, available services, and general health information. Respondents have emphasized the importance of staying informed and connected to the available resources and support. It was also evident that the community strongly needed socialization opportunities for seniors. Currently, the absence of Adult Day Care Centers or Senior Resource Centers in the county poses a challenge for elderly residents seeking social engagement and support. To address this pressing need and foster a sense of community among seniors, hosting a monthly senior day at the Pearsall Public Library was suggested to create a welcoming space for socialization, recreation, and access to resources. Jennifer Muniz, Pearsall Public Librarian welcomes this opportunity to build service to the aging community of Frio County. By establishing a regular senior day at the library, the community can provide a safe and accessible environment for elderly residents to interact, share experiences, and build meaningful connections. The library will host it's first event October 10th at the Pearsall Library from 10-12 Noon. For more information contact: corey.deleon@dshs.texas.gov or gomeza6@uthscsa.edu FALL FESTIVAL FRIO COUNTY
Saturday, October 21st, from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM
Polo Patino Park 147 W. Davila St. Pearsall, TX 78061 Please save the date for our upcoming 2nd annual Frio Fall Festival! In partnership with the Frio County Translational Advisory Board (TAB), we planning to host our 2nd Annual Frio Fall Festival on Saturday, October 21st, from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM. This FREE event is focused on providing education, services, and resources to Frio County and surrounding regions. The Fall Festival will be held at Polo Patino Park (147 W. Davila St. Pearsall, TX 78061) and will have activities for all ages, performances, and a costume contest! Please mark your calendars, and we hope to see you all there! For more information, contact: Ariel Gomez GomezA6@uthscsa.edu 2023 IIMS COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT SYMPOSIUM
 
PATHWAYS TOWARD RECOVERY, EMPOWEMENT, AND SOCIAL INCLUSION
December 12, 2023 Join us for a day filled with insightful discussions, networking opportunities, and community building. This event will take place on Saturday, December 2, 2023 at the Neighborhood Place located at 3014 Rivas Street, San Antonio, TX 78228. We highly encourage you to participate in person if possible. Get ready to engage with like-minded individuals who are passionate about making a positive impact in our communities. For more info:IIMS-CE@UTHSCSA.EDU | | Follow South Coastal AHEC on Facebook @SouthCoastalAHEC.CC
Readiness for College and Career (R4CC)
September 20, 2023 South Coastal AHEC, in partnership with Citizens for Education Excellence and Coastal Compass, will present at the upcoming Readiness for College and Career (R4CC) on September 20, 2023 in Corpus Christi, Texas. This educational event was designed to provide 9th - 12th grade students with an opportunity to learn about the wide range of career opportunities in health care that will be available to them after high school and college. SCAHEC will present to150 high school students. For more information, call: 361.881.8133 CHRISTUS Spohn Journal Club 
September 21, 2023 in Corpus Christi, TX South Coastal AHEC, in partnership with CHRISTUS Spohn Hospital, continues with its monthly Cardiovascular Journal Club Meetings. This interprofessional educational activity provides an opportunity for cardiologists and other interested healthcare providers to discuss current cases as well as learn about emerging research and innovations in the field of cardiovascular medicine. For more information, call: 361.881.8133 Salud en Mis Manos at the Mexican Consulate
September 23,2023 - Garcia Arts and Education Center, Corpus Christi TX South Coastal AHEC CHWs will be providing assistance to women at the Mexican Consulate on September 23, 2023 to provide education and assistance for our breast and cervical cancer prevention program. For more information, call: 361.881.8133 | | Follow Lower Rio Grande Valley AHEC on Facebook at @lrgv.ahec | | | |  Attention Health Profession Students! The AHEC Scholars Program is Recruiting!  This program is an opportunity for health profession students, of all disciplines, to participate in interprofessional education (IPE) healthcare 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 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. Alternatively, please contact Roni Vela by e-mail at velav4@uthscsa.edu or phone at 361-881-8133, for more information. Please note: We are unable to accept pre-health profession students at this time. | | | | | | | |  | | | | | | | South Texas Area Health Education Center Program Office
UT Health - San Antonio
7703 Floyd Curl Drive | San Antonio, TX 78229 | 210-567-0482 | | | | | | | | | | | |
