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Community Corner—African American Reach & Teach Health Ministry

Community Corner highlights the work of Seattle Human Services’ community partners in their own words. Our goal is to gather stories and photos that illustrate their amazing work on behalf of the people of Seattle. This post highlights the African American Reach & Teach Health Ministry, often referred to as AARTH (arth).

What is the role your organization fulfills in your community?

AARTH provides education, trainings, information, and other resources regarding health issues that disproportionately effect people of African descent, and  other marginalized communities. We reach out to individuals directly, and through a broad network of individuals, community-serving organizations, faith houses, agencies, and institutions that share common goals of reducing health disparities and increasing positive health outcomes.

How does your partnership with Seattle Human Services assist you in that role?

AARTH is grateful for a thriving, effective partnership with Seattle Human Services. This partnership allows AARTH to fulfill its mission by providing essential funding, resources, and support, enabling AARTH to expand its programs, reach more individuals, and offer comprehensive services. Through this partnership, AARTH can leverage the expertise and networks of Seattle Human Services to address the unique health challenges faced by African American communities, ensuring that our programs are impactful and sustainable.

What is your organization’s origin story?

AARTH was founded in 2002 in response to an urgent need to address health disparities related to HIV/AIDS within local African American communities. It began as a grassroots initiative founded by two Ministers in the Seattle area who recognized the importance of culturally relevant health education and support related to AIDS/HIV.

Initially, AARTH was a very small, community-based organization. Over the next few years, AARTH expanded its reach to add more health-related topics including culturally appropriate behavioral health-change, clinical education and training for communities, organizations, and health institutions, in addition to HIV education.

AARTH also increased geographically to include six regional states, including Washington, Oregon, Utah, Colorado, Alaska, and Wyoming. AARTH grew from an idea to address health disparities to a leading advocate for health equity, building strong partnerships and developing innovative programs to serve its community effectively.

How has your organization grown or developed in recent years?

In recent years, AARTH has seen significant growth in both scope and impact. The organization has expanded its programs to include information regarding a wider range of health and wellness curricula that encompasses information regarding many diseases that disproportionately effect people of African descent.

Examples of AARTH curricula that help community members manage chronic illnesses include courses such as Mental Health First Aid, Chronic Disease Self-Management, and Opioid Overdose Rescue. AARTH has also strengthened its community outreach efforts, utilizing technology and social media to connect with a broader audience. Additionally, the organization has forged new partnerships and secured increased funding, enabling it to scale its operations and enhance its service delivery.

Why is it important for Seattle Human Services and City of Seattle taxpayers to invest in community-led work?

Investing in community-led work is crucial because it ensures that programs and services are designed and implemented by those who understand the unique needs and challenges of the community. Community-led initiatives are more likely to be culturally relevant, effective, and sustainable. For Seattle Human Services and City of Seattle taxpayers, supporting these efforts helps build stronger, healthier communities, reduces health disparities, and promotes health equity. It also fosters community empowerment, as residents play an active role in shaping the solutions that affect their lives.

How do your programs and services help to reduce the disparities experienced by people of color living in our region?

AARTH programs and services address the root causes of health disparities by providing culturally tailored health education, resources, and support. These initiatives help to bridge gaps in healthcare access, improve health literacy, and promote preventive care among people from the African diaspora and other marginalized communities. By offering services that are sensitive to the cultural and social contexts of the communities they serve, AARTH ensures that individuals receive the care and support they need to achieve better health outcomes. This, in turn, reduces the disparities experienced by people of color in the region.

Tell us an example of how an HSD-funded program or service impacted the life of one of your community members.

One impactful example is a mental health support program funded by Seattle Human Services. AARTH provided counseling and peer support to a Black community member struggling with depression and anxiety. Through this program, the individual received culturally sensitive therapy, connected with others facing similar challenges, and gained access to resources that promoted their overall well-being. As a result, the individual’s mental health significantly improved, enabling them to regain stability and actively participate in their community. This example highlights the transformative power of targeted, community-led initiatives supported by Seattle Human Services.

What motivates your staff or keeps you going?

AARTH staff are driven by a deep commitment to social justice, health equity, and the well-being of their community. They are motivated by the positive impact of their work and the stories of individuals whose lives have been transformed through AARTH’s programs.

The passion for addressing health disparities and the belief in the power of community-led solutions inspire the staff to continue their efforts. Additionally, the support and collaboration with community members and partners reinforce their dedication to creating a healthier and more equitable society. This is heart work for us all.