Welcome to the Summer 2025 South Texas AHEC Newsletter

Recent Successes | Future Events | Learning Opportunities | Health News

Recent Successes

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Our AHEC Family

In April, several members of the South Texas AHEC Programs made the journey to Corpus Christi to attend the 2 day CHW conference hosted by South Coastal AHEC. In addition to attending valuable sessions and earning continuing education hours, they welcomed the opportunity to strengthen the bonds between the people that make up the South Texas AHEC Program and it's centers.

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Autism Awareness Community Platica

On March 4, 2025, the Mexican Consulado de México in Eagle Pass hosted a community plática dedicated to raising awareness about autism. This event, which was attended by representatives from the Southwest Border Area Health Education Center (AHEC), brought together local families, healthcare providers, and community health workers to discuss the challenges and opportunities surrounding autism diagnosis, treatment, and support. The plática included informative presentations by experts, culturally tailored resources, and open dialogue to foster understanding and address common concerns. The Southwest Border AHEC team actively participated by sharing insights on available resources and highlighting their commitment to promoting health equity in the region. For more information contact: Bonifacio Vega at vegab@uthscsa.edu

Spring Into Health - Southwest Texas College Education Fair

On March 11, 2025, Southwest Border AHEC participated in the Spring Into Health Student Fair hosted by Southwest Texas College in Eagle Pass, Texas. The event provided students to learn about the variety of programs offered by Southwest Border AHEC aimed at helping them reach their career goals. For more information contact: Bonifacio Vega at vegab@uthscsa.edu

First Aid Spring Break Camp

During the week of March 17-March 20, Southwest Border AHEC hosted its First Aide Spring Camp for high school and college students. The camp offered students an opportunity to develop and practice their first aid skills through a variety of fun and interactive activities. The Southwest Border AHEC team was joined by local health care professionals who provided their expertise to make this event great for the students of Eagle Pass. For more information contact: Bonifacio Vega at vegab@uthscsa.edu

Mission Border Hope Diabetes Fair

On March 24, 2025, Southwest Border AHEC, in partnership with Mission Border Hope, Methodist Healthcare Ministries (MHM), and Eden Home Health, hosted a community education and health event in Eagle Pass, focused on diabetes awareness and prevention. This event offered culturally tailored presentations on diabetes management, nutrition, and lifestyle modifications to empower community members with the knowledge and resources needed to make informed health decisions. Free health screenings, including blood glucose testing, and interactive wellness activities were provided to engage participants actively. For more information contact: Bonifacio Vega at vegab@uthscsa.edu

Autism Awareness Caminata

On April 2, 2025, the Mexican Consulado de México in Eagle Pass organized a community caminata (walk) centered on promoting autism awareness. This event, co-hosted by Southwest Border AHEC, brought together families, healthcare providers, and community members to walk in solidarity with those affected by autism. The caminata featured brief informational stops along the route, where participants received culturally relevant educational materials and engaged in discussions about the importance of early intervention and community-based support. For more information contact: Bonifacio Vega at vegab@uthscsa.edu

Autism Awareness Celebration

On April 5, 2025, the Mexican Consulado de Del Río hosted an Autism Awareness Celebration event that aimed to foster inclusivity and understanding within the local community. The event was attended by representatives from the Southwest Border AHEC, alongside families, healthcare professionals, and community leaders. The celebration featured a series of engaging presentations that highlighted the importance of early diagnosis, culturally sensitive support, and inclusive education for individuals with autism. For more information contact: Bonifacio Vega at vegab@uthscsa.edu

CHW Graduation - Uvalde, Texas

On April 7, 2025, the Uvalde community came together to celebrate the graduation of a dedicated cohort of community health workers. The event honored the commitment and perseverance of the participants, who completed the CHW training program designed to enhance their skills in providing culturally appropriate health education and advocacy within their communities. Congratulations to these new community health workers, whose efforts will make a meaningful difference in the health and well-being of their neighbors. For more information contact: Bonifacio Vega at vegab@uthscsa.edu

Quemado Health Fair - Diabetes Edition

On April 24, 2025, Southwest Border AHEC, in partnership with Mission Border Hope, Methodist Healthcare Ministries (MHM), and Eden Home Health, hosted a community education and health event in Quemado, Texas focused on diabetes awareness and prevention. This event offered culturally tailored presentations on diabetes management, nutrition, and lifestyle modifications to empower community members with the knowledge and resources needed to make informed health decisions. Free health screenings, including blood glucose testing, and a diabetes Loteria were provided to engage participants actively. For more information contact: Bonifacio Vega at vegab@uthscsa.edu

Seco Mines - Head Start Fair

On April 25, 2025, the Southwest Border Area Health Education Center (AHEC), in collaboration with local Head Start programs, hosted a community event in Eagle Pass dedicated to promoting oral health for children. The event featured engaging activities and educational sessions tailored to young children and their families, highlighting the importance of good oral hygiene practices and regular dental care. For more information contact: Bonifacio Vega at vegab@uthscsa.edu

Dia del Nino Activities - April

Throughout the month of April, SWB AHEC participated in various events throughout the Southwest Border Area in celebration of el Día del Niño, a cultural celebration observed in various countries to honor and recognize the importance of children in society. This occasion is marked by community events aimed at providing children and their families with enjoyable and enriching experiences. For more information contact: Bonifacio Vega at vegab@uthscsa.edu

Dia de las Madres Event - Consulado de Mexico

On May 6, 2025, the Southwest Border AHEC co-hosted a community event to celebrate Día de las Madres, honoring mothers and their vital contributions to family and community life. The event featured festive music, traditional dances, and heartfelt messages that highlighted the importance of maternal health and well-being. Southwest Border AHEC provided valuable health resources and information to support mothers in Eagle Pass. For more information contact: Bonifacio Vega at vegab@uthscsa.edu

EPISD - CHW Graduation

On May 14, 2025, the Southwest Border and Eagle Pass ISD came together to celebrate the graduation ceremony for a dedicated cohort of 41 community health workers (CHWs). The event honored the commitment and perseverance of the students of Eagle Pass High School, who completed an intensive training program designed to enhance their skills in providing culturally appropriate health education and advocacy within their communities. Congratulations to these new community health workers! For more information contact: Bonifacio Vega at vegab@uthscsa.edu

Follow Mid Rio Grande Border AHEC on Facebook @AreaHealthEducationCenter

Follow South Central AHEC on Facebook @SouthCentralTexasAHEC

Congratulations to Natalie and Ivan on Graduating from UTSA!

🎓 Big Congratulations to Our Spring 2025 Interns, Natalie & Ivan! 🎉 Join us in celebrating Natalie Yadao and Ivan Garcia on their graduation from the University of Texas at San Antonio! Both earned their Bachelor of Science in Public Health and brought incredible energy, dedication, and passion to their internship with us this spring. We're so proud of all they've accomplished and can't wait to see the amazing things they'll achieve in their next chapter. The future of public health is brighter with leaders like Natalie and Ivan! 🌟 For more information, Contact Sophia Martinez at MartinezS31@uthscsa.edu

🌟 Welcome Josh Kloster - Summer 2025 Intern!🌟

🌟 Welcome Josh Kloster - Summer 2025 Intern!🌟 We're thrilled to welcome Josh Kloster as our Summer 2025 Intern at South Central AHEC! Originally from Chicago, Josh moved to San Antonio at age 12 to live with his grandparents. At 19, he joined the U.S. Army as a Healthcare Specialist (68W) and was stationed at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas, where he served as a medic at the Joint Regional Correctional Facility. After completing four years of active duty, he returned to San Antonio at age 23. Josh is majoring in Public Health and has aspirations of becoming a travel registered nurse (RN). He is looking forward to bringing his dedication, experience, and passion for healthcare to his internship with AHEC. Welcome, Josh - we're excited to have you on the team! 🎉 For more information, contact Ariel Gomez at GomezA6@uthscsa.edu

Community Health Worker (CHW) graduates

🎉 Congratulations to Our Newest Community Health Workers! 🩺 We're thrilled to celebrate the incredible accomplishment of our latest group of Community Health Worker (CHW) Certification Course graduates! These are dedicated individuals committed their time, energy, and passion to complete a 160-hour state-certified training program, gaining the knowledge and skills to make a lasting impact in the communities they serve. 👏 Please join us in recognizing their hard work and commitment. We are so proud of each of you and excited to see where your CHW journey leads! Your efforts will strengthen the voice of the community and improve health outcomes across South Texas-thank you for stepping up and stepping in as trusted health advocates. Congratulations, CHWs - the future of community health is brighter with you in it! 🌟 For more information, contact Sophia Martinez at MartinezS31@uthscsa.edu

Follow South Coastal AHEC on Facebook @SouthCoastalAHEC.CC

Kaffie Middle School Physicals

South Coastal AHEC's first physical of May was for Kaffie Middle School. Almost 200 students received free sports physicals. For more information, contact Brittany Serna at 361-881-8133

King High School Physicals

King High School was one of the next schools to be visited during this season. Getting these physicals before school starts allows students to participate in summer training. Over 200 students received free physicals. For more information, contact Brittany Serna at 361-881-8133

ALSO 2025

Advanced Life Support in Obstetrics is a course South Coastal AHEC holds annually. This year, 30 health care professionals were able to participate. This course gives healthcare professionals the tools and readiness to safely deliver a baby in the event of an emergency. For more information, contact Scott Krall at 361-881-8133

Melissa Flores's Graduation
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In May, South Coastal AHEC celebrated the graduation of our own Melissa Flores. After all her hard work, she has completed her studies to become a registered nurse! Congratulations on your amazing achievement!

Conscious Collaborations

As part of the CME South Coastal AHEC, they participated in the annual Conscious Collaborations conference. This conference is held in May for mental health awareness. 135 people participate, ranging from social workers, CHWs, Physicians, and more healthcare professionals. For more information, contact Scott Krall at 361-881-8133

CHW Bridging the Gap to Better Health

South Coastal AHEC held its annual Community Health Worker Conference. This year's event was a Huge success with over 150 participants! Each participant received 10 hours of DHSH-approved CEUs for community health workers. For more information, contact Brittany Serna at 361-881-8133

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

Training in High Pressure - Hypertension

The CHW training session on Hypertension "High Blood Pressure" that took place on April 10, 2025. The training was facilitated by our prepared and knowledgeable CHW instructor, Mariam E. Ramirez, and our instructor trainee, Israel Martinon. They provided well-informed instruction, covering how the blood pressure machine works and offered a clear explanation regarding Systolic and Diastolic high blood pressure readings. Thank you, Isreal and Mariam, for a great presentation. CHW Training: CHWs earned 3 DSHS-certified hours that they can use towards their CHW certification renewal. La capacitación de Promotoras/es de Salud sobre Hipertensión "Presión arterial alta" que tuvo lugar el 10 de abril de 2025. La capacitación fue facilitada por nuestra instructora de promotoras/es Mariam E. Ramírez, y nuestro instructor en formación, Israel Martinon. Proporcionaron instrucciones bien informadas, cubriendo cómo funciona la máquina de presión arterial y ofreciendo una explicación clara sobre las lecturas de la presión arterial alta sistólica y diastólica. Gracias Isreal y Mariam, por una excelent presentación. Capacitación para Promotoras/es de Salud: Promotoras/es obtuvieron 3 horas certificadas por DSHS que pueden usar para la renovación de su certificación de Promotor/a. For more information, contact Juana Escareño at escareno@uthscsa.edu

Family Communication and Mental Health

The Family Community and Mental Health workshop, which was the fourth and final workshop in our series of four. This workshop specifically focused on providing community health workers (CHWs) and families with practical knowledge and skills to improve their overall well-being. The sessions covered several key areas, including effective communication techniques, strategies for resolving conflicts, an introduction to understanding mental health, and practical approaches to parenting. We were pleased to Ms. Julie Jaramillo y Gina Jaramillo from Palmer Drug Abuse Program - Counseling and Mental Health in Brownsville, Texas, as our guest speaker on May 9, 2025. For more information, contact Juana Escareño at escareno@uthscsa.edu

Un Día de Conversación / A Day of Conversation

The conference entitled "A Day of Conversation Day with Community Health Workers of Texas" that was held yesterday, Saturday, May 31, from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the University of Texas in San Antonio. The event was conducted entirely in Spanish. As a panelist, Belinda "Bel" Flores, Director of South Coastal AHEC and Juana Escareño, Director of LRV AHEC, had the opportunity to represent Promotoras from different regions of the state. The discussion focused on having a dialogue about the current situation and the specific characteristics of the Promotoras workforce in our respective areas, particularly in South Texas. La conferencia titulada "Un Día de Conversación con Promotoras de Texas" que se llevó a cabo ayer, sábado 31 de mayo, de 8 a.m. a 1 p.m. en la Universidad de Texas en San Antonio. El evento se realizó completamente en español. Como panelistas, Belinda "Bel" Flores, Directora de South Coastal AHEC y Juana Escareño, Directora de LRV AHEC, tuvieron la oportunidad de representar a las Promotoras de diferentes regiones del estado. La discusión se centró en tener un diálogo sobre la situación actual y las características específicas de la fuerza laboral de Promotoras en nuestras respectivas áreas, particularmente en el Sur de Texas. For more information, contact Juana Escareño at escareno@uthscsa.edu

Future Events & Learning Opportunities

Follow South Texas AHEC on Facebook @STAHEC

Follow Southwest Border AHEC on Facebook @SWBAHEC

Follow Mid Rio Grande Border AHEC on Facebook @AreaHealthEducationCenter

Follow South Central AHEC on Facebook @SouthCentralTexasAHEC

2025 Public Health Camp

📅 Date: Monday, June 23 - Friday, June 27, 2025
📍 Location: The Neighborhood Place - 3014 Rivas St. San Antonio, TX 78228
Click here to register! https://redcap.link/PHC2025

Rising 11th and 12th graders in Fall 2025 are welcome to attend a FREE week-long Public Health Camp to explore the field of Public Health and participate in interactive workshops and field trips. For more information: contact PublicHealthCamp@UTHealthSA.org or Ariel Gomez at GomezA6@uthscsa.edu

🧠 Upcoming Virtual Workshop: The Neurobiology of Addiction in Adolescents & The Role of SBIRT

June 24, 2025 from 2:00pm to 4:00pm
🎓 Cost: Free | Includes 2 CME/CEUs CEUs available for: LMFT, LPC, LMSW, and LCSW
💻 Location: Online via Zoom
Registration link: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/r4LIq1m3TAmUPbLJ_RUukw#/registration

🧠 Upcoming Virtual Workshop: The Neurobiology of Addiction in Adolescents & The Role of SBIRT 🧠 Join us for the 2025 PEP Summer Workshop, where we'll explore the science behind adolescent addiction and the powerful role SBIRT (Screening, Brief Intervention, and Referral to Treatment) can play in early intervention. 🔬Featured Speaker: Dr. Muhammad Ali Chaudhary Assistant Professor, Be Well Institute - UT Health San Antonio. This dynamic training is perfect for healthcare professionals, educators, and community advocates working with youth. 🩺 Accreditation: This activity is approved by the South Coastal AHEC and accredited by the Texas Medical Association (TMA) for up to 2 AMA PRA Category 1 Credits™. 📧 Questions? Contact ogbeide@uthscsa.edu Don't miss this opportunity to expand your knowledge and earn continuing education credits-register today!

Back to School Health and Wellness Fair

August 2, 2025 from 11:00am to 2:00pm
San Martin De Porres Catholic Church - 1730 Dahlgreen Ave, San Antonio, TX 78237

🎉 Get Ready to Head Back to School in Style! 🎒✨ Join us for the UT Health SA Front Porch Series as we welcome the 2025 school year with a day of fun, resources, and community support! 📅 When: Saturday, August 2, 2025 | 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM 📍 Where:San Martin de Porres Catholic Church, 1730 Dahlgreen Avenue, San Antonio, TX 78237 What's Happening? ✅ Ask a Doc Session - Get health tips and answers to your questions! ✅ Free School Supplies - Stock up for the new year! ✅ Kids Activities & Prizes - Fun games and giveaways for the kiddos! ✅ Community Resources & More! Don't miss this chance to connect, learn, and celebrate the start of a new school year! For more information, reach out to Loerat@uthscsa.edu or Gomeza6@uthscsa.edu 📢 Spread the word - we can't wait to see you there!

UT Health SA Front Porch Series Presents: Back to School Health and Wellness Fai
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August 2, 2025 from 11:ooam to 2:00pm
SAN MARTIN DE PORRES CATHOLIC CHURCH 1730 DAHLGREEN AVENUE, SAN ANTONIO, TX 78237

🎒 Back to School Bash - Join Us August 2nd! 🚌 Get ready for a fun and family-friendly day! The UT Health SA Front Porch Series is excited to present a Back to School event filled with free resources, school supplies, and engaging activities for the whole community. ✨ Event Highlights: 🎒 Free School Supplies 🩺 "Ask a Doc" Health Q\&A Session 🎉 Kids' Activities & Prizes 📚 Community Resources & More! Bring your family and friends to kick off the new school year with support, fun, and connection! 📧 Questions? Email: loerat@uthscsa.edu or gomeza6@uthscsa.edu We can't wait to see you there! 🌟

Community Health Worker Certification Course

Become a Certified Community Health Worker - Fall 2025 Virtual Course!

We're excited to announce that registration is now open for our Fall 2025 Community Health Worker (CHW) Certification Course, hosted by South Central AHEC and taught by DSHS-Certified Instructor Ludivina "Ludy" Hernandez. 📅 Course Dates: September 10 - October 29, 2025 🕕 Time:Wednesdays from 6 PM - 8:30 PM 💻 Format: Online via Zoom 💵 Cost:$75 (non-refundable) This 160-hour, competency-based certification course is approved by the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) and is perfect for individuals passionate about improving community health in South Texas. ✅ Who Can Enroll? Participants must: Have a stable internet connection with audio and video capabilities Live or work in one of the following counties: Bexar, Gillespie, Kendall, Comal, Guadalupe, Wilson, Karnes, Atascosa, Frio, Medina, Bandera, or Kerr 🔗 Register or Request More Info: Email: MartinezS31@uthscsa.edu Don't miss out on this opportunity to make a difference in your community and take the next step in your public health journey! 🌟

Follow South Coastal AHEC on Facebook @SouthCoastalAHEC.CC

Monthly Orange Gove Food Distribution

June 28, 2025

Every third Saturday of the month, South Coastal AHEC hosts a Food distribution to the community of Orange Grove. THis month, the distribution will be on June 28. July should return to the regular schedule. For more information, contact Brittany Serna at 361-881-8133

CHW Fellowship Summit

June 28, 2025

At the end of June, South Coastal AHEC will be traveling to Laredo to participate in the CHW Fellowship Summit. Fellows from each center participated in a public health project. This summit will allow each team to present their project and the impact it has made in their community. For more information, contact Brittany Serna at 361-881-8133.

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

Cooking Well With Diabetes

July 2, 2025 from 5:00 to 6:30pm
Hilcrest Ware House, 707 S. Smith St., Hebbronville, TX
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSf_3_9yqCRGf3rGuOk7eR5lM4HMB2SMjB20saTfDDtYdl7Rtw/viewform?pli=1

Cooking well with Diabetes: Learn how to make quick diabetic-friendly recipes and how to create balanced, and flavorful plates. In this four-session program you will learn about; 1) carbohydrate foods and the plate method, 2) sweet and desserts, 3) adding healthier fats to your plate, and 4) filling our plates with more fiber and flavor. For more information contact: Anna Vela Ruiz at 361-701-9808 or email at anna.vela@agnet.tamu.edu

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.

Partner Announcements

Drug Overdose and Alcohol Deaths Down Nationally