On this episode of EquiTEA, Juan sits down with Dr. Carlos Calderon, Medical Director of the HIV/STD Early Intervention Program at Riverside University Health System- Public Health, for a powerful conversation in honor of National Latinx HIV & AIDS Awareness Day, observed Oct. 15. Together, they unpack the disproportionate impact of HIV on Hispanic/Latinx communities, spotlight the life-saving importance of testing and early detection and confront the stigma that continues to surround the virus.
Resources:
To get connected with HIV/STD resources, please visit: https://ruhealth.org/public-health/rivco-hiv-std-program
On this episode of EquiTEA, Alicia sits with Farron Dozier, a 24-year Army vet and mental health advocate to discuss the complex reality of Independence Day for many veterans. In this episode, they take a deep dive into the emotional toll this holiday can take on many and how communities can offer support.
To connect with Farron, please visit:
To learn more about Evidence-Based Treatments available at Veteran’s Affair, please visit:
https://www.mentalhealth.va.gov/get-help/treatment/ebt.asp
On this episode of EquiTEA, special guest host, Andrea Gallegos sits down with Jax Kelly from Let’s Kick ASS- Palm Springs (LKAPS)- to honor HIV Long- Term Survivors Awareness Day. Together, they explore the significance of this day, the challenges faced by individuals aging with HIV, and the vital work LKAPS is doing to combat isolation and alleviate the stress associated with AIDS Survivors Syndrome.
To learn more about Let's Kick ASS (AIDS Survivors Syndrome)- Palm Springs, please visit:
To learn more about the Aging & HIV Institute, please visit:
Other resources:
National Resource Center on Aging & HIV:
On this episode, Bridget had an insightful discussion with Dee Keoski, Jeff Usik and Cyndy Oleson of the Janet Goeske Senior Center to explore the unique challenges faced by the aging population in Riverside County. Join the conversation and gain valuable insights into the Silver Tsunami- a term used to describe the growing wave of aging Americans. From healthcare and wellness to community support and advocacy, this discussion sheds light on the evolving needs of older adults.
For more information about the Janet Goeske Foundation and Senior Center, please visit:
JGF4seniors.org and JGC4seniors.com
On this episode of EquiTEA, Juan and Amanda have a crucial conversation with Ashley Jackson of Inland Southern California Climate Collaborative (ISC3). Listen as they discuss unique climate challenges faced by the Inland Empire, current initiatives aimed at combating these issues and actionable steps we all can take to work toward a more sustainable future.
For more information about ISC3, please visit:
https://iscclimatecollaborative.org/
To volunteer for future clean up events, please visit:
On this episode, Lupita had a vital conversation with Barbara Cole, Disease Control Branch Chief at RUHS – Public Health, in recognition of World Tuberculosis (TB) Day. The discussion delved into the progression and transmission of the disease, vulnerable groups and efforts RUHS – PH is leading to address the social determinants of health that contribute to the disease’s impact.
For more information about the Tuberculosis Control Program, please visit:
https://www.ruhealth.org/public-health/disease-control/tuberculosis-control
On this episode, Greg and Dorothy have an insightful conversation with Adriana Lilly, Senior Clinical Therapist and Dr. GeBren Blakely, Staff Development Officer from RUHS – Behavioral Health. They discussed eating disorders and the Mindful Body and Recovery Program, which is targeted for adolescents aged 12- 18 years old. This is a population where the onset of eating disorders occurs frequently. The topics span from the different types of eating disorders, common misconceptions and cultural factors at play.
For more information about the Mindful Body and Recovery Program, please visit:
https://bit.ly/RUHS-MindfulBody
On this episode of EquiTEA, Lupita and Dorothy have an insightful conversation with Karla López del Río, Executive Director of Community Action Partnership (CAP). Their mission is to facilitate opportunities towards self-sufficiency through education, wealth building, energy assistance, and advocacy. In recognition of Poverty Awareness Month, they discuss the root causes of poverty specific to Riverside County and the wide breadth of resources that CAP offers to promote self-sufficiency and upward mobility for people of all backgrounds. For a list of services and programs offered through CAP, please visit:
https://capriverside.org/
On this episode of EquiTEA, our special guest host, DuJuan James has the chance to speak with Dr. Carlos Calderon, the Medical Director for the HIV/STD Early Intervention Program at Riverside University Health System – Public Health. In recognition of World AIDS Day, they discuss the significance of this awareness day, highlighting the importance of continued efforts in the fight against HIV. The discussion spans from the diverse range of HIV symptoms and the importance of regular testing, as well as addressing barriers to care.
To get connected with HIV/STD resources, please visit:
HIV Care | Riverside University Health System
In this episode of EquiTEA, Greg delves into an eye-opening conversation with Dr. Sean Milanovich, the Native American Cultural Competency Liaison at Riverside University Health System-Behavioral Health and tribal member of the Agua Caliente Cahuilla Band of Indians. Together, they explore the unique health disparities faced by Indigenous communities, focusing on the importance of trust, collaboration, and understanding cultural history in creating effective healthcare approaches.
On this episode of EquiTEA, Greg sits down with Dr. Jon Paul Higgins (They/Them) and Gustavo Hurtado (She/They) of Rainbow Pride Youth Alliance (RPYA), a vital non-profit supporting LGBTQ+ youth and allies in the Inland Empire. This conversation is centered around their personal journeys, critical challenges faced by trans individuals- including access to gender- affirming care and mental health support- and resources and services offered by the organization.
To find out more about Rainbow Pride Youth Alliance and learn ways you can get involved, please visit:
https://rainbowprideyouthalliance.org
On this episode of EquiTEA, Dorothy and Lupita had a chance to connect with breast cancer survivor, Kara Adams and Pink Ribbon Place Health Educator, Davi Wilson. This conversation explores how breast cancer disproportionately affects communities of color and highlights the importance of early detection and preventative measures, including self-exams, mammograms and regular check ups. Listen as Kara shares her personal journey with breast cancer and Davi shares available resources and support Pink Ribbon Place offers to those impacted by cancer and their families.
To find out more about Pink Ribbon Place and how to get involved, please visit:
In this episode of EquiTEA, host Greg is joined by special guest co-host Wendy Hetherington, Branch Chief of the Riverside University Health System (RUHS) Public Health department. Together, they engage in a thought-provoking discussion with Audrey and Edif, representatives from Inland Empire Harm Reduction (IEHR), a non-profit organization dedicated to enhancing the health and well-being of individuals affected by drug use in the Inland Empire. The conversation revolves around the core principles of harm reduction, IEHR's efforts to combat stigma, support marginalized communities, and adapt their services amidst the pandemic and beyond.
To find out more about IEHR’s services and how to get involved, please visit:
Overview – Inland Empire Harm Reduction (ieharmreduction.org)
To receive free Narcan, visit one of our facilities or reach out directly to RODA at roda@ruhealth.org.
Riverside Overdose Data to Action | Riverside University Health System (ruhealth.org)
On this episode of EquiTEA, Lupita engaged in an insightful conversation with the CEO of Feeding America Inland Empire, Carolyn Solar and Susan De la Cruz, a beneficiary of the organization’s vital services. Feeding America Inland Empire is a nonprofit organization dedicated to alleviating hunger by offering innovative programs to support diverse groups, including seniors, college students and veterans. Carolyn sheds light on the extent of food insecurity in the region and shares some of the creative solutions that Feeding America has developed to address these challenges. Susan provides a personal perspective, discussing her experience with accessing food resources and the importance changing the narrative on food insecurity one conversation at a time.
To find out more about Feeding America and how to get involved, please visit:
Home | Feeding America Riverside San Bernardino (feedingamericaie.org)
On this episode of EquiTEA, Greg and Peter had the chance to talk to Javier Baños and Ivan Serrano, Peer Support Specialists at Starting Over, Inc. This nonprofit organization provides transitional housing, re-entry services, policy advocacy and civic engagement for individuals experiencing homelessness, incarceration and/or substance abuse. Both individuals share their firsthand experience with the judicial system and how incarceration impacts one’s mental health.
To find out more about Starting Over, Inc. please visit:
https://www.startingoverinc.org
Resources:
Black Emotional and Mental Health Collective (BEAM): BEAM is dedicated to removing the barriers that Black people experience getting access to or staying connected with emotional health care and healing.
Website: beam.community
California Black Health Network (CBHN): CBHN advocates for health equity for Black Californians and offers resources and support for mental health.
Website: cbhn.org
The Safe Black Space: This organization provides culturally specific support, education, and resources to African Americans dealing with racial trauma.
Website: safeblackspace.org
NAMI California: The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) California chapter offers support groups, educational programs, and advocacy for mental health in minority communities.
Website: namica.org
On this episode of EquiTEA, Greg had the chance to talk to Larry Butler, a previous participant turned Program Facilitator and Outreach Specialist of the Fatherhood Services Program with Sigma Beta Xi (SBX) Youth and Family Services. Eric Willis, a program participant program, joined the discussion to share his own experience. Both highlighted the importance of knowledge sharing and community support systems. The fatherhood program was established to support the Perinatal Equity Initiative which aims to reduce Black infant mortality rates and improve health outcomes for Black mothers.
To find out more about the SBX Black Fatherhood Program please visit:
https://www.sigmabetaxi.com/black-fatherhood
For The Nurturing Fathers Program, open to all fathers, please visit:
https://www.ruhealth.org/behavioral-health/parent-support-training-program.
On this episode of EquiTEA, Greg and Lupita had the opportunity to have an engaging conversation with Dr. Yxstian Gutierrez, the Riverside County Supervisor for District 5. He shares his inspiring journey from humble beginnings, extensive background in education and challenges he faced as a young, elected official. Dr. Gutierrez emphasizes how crucial it is to have community voices heard and shares ways to become more involved in local politics.
To find out more about District 5's initiatives, resources and ways to get involved, check out the links below:
Home | Supervisor Yxstian Gutierrez, District 5 (rivcodistrict5.org)
https://rivcodistrict5.org/volunteer
On this episode of EquiTEA, Greg sits down with Dr. Donna Hunter, founder of Allie’s Allys, for an insightful conversation about Autism in recognition of National Autism Awareness Month. Allie’s Allys is an organization dedicated to supporting families in underserved communities who have children with autism. Dr. Hunter sheds light on the disparity gap in the age of diagnosis for Black and Latino children while emphasizing the importance of showing empathy towards those with autism.
Resources:
Dr. Donna Marie Hunter (@drdmhunter) • Instagram photos and videos Allie's Allys - Autism, Awareness, ASD, Independent Faciltators (alliesallys.org) Autism Society Creating connections for the Autism community to live fully. Home - Autism Society Inland Empire (ieautism.org)
On this episode of EquiTEA, we are celebrating Women's History Month and highlighting women in leadership. The team had the opportunity to meet with leaders of Riverside University Health System - Public Health to discuss the importance of women empowerment, mentorship, and inspiration.
On this episode of EquiTEA, we are celebrating Black History Month and highlighting National Cancer Prevention Month. Greg and Lupita had the opportunity to meet with Dr. Steve Serrao Chief of Gastroenterology at Riverside University Health System- Medical Center to discuss how the Black/African-American community is disproportionately impacted by Colorectal Cancer and amplify the importance of early screening.
To schedule an appointment for screening at RUHS, please visit www.ruhealth.org or call (800) 720- 9553