The African American Health Coalition (AfAHC) is proud to present "Skin Deep: Melanin Matters", aimed at addressing dermatological health disparities within predominantly Black communities in Houston and surrounding areas. The African American Health Coalition proposes a 4-month dermatological health initiative targeting Houston's Black communities in underserved communities.

The Skin Deep: Melanin Matters – Community Dermatological Health Initiative represents a bold, community-rooted response to a long-overlooked public health issue. By leveraging trusted community spaces, culturally responsive education, and strategic partnerships, the African American Health Coalition is uniquely positioned to close the dermatological health gap in Houston’s Black communities.

With Eli Lilly’s support, we will activate a proven model that not only delivers screenings and education but also builds sustainable capacity through the training of Community Health Workers and beauty industry professionals. This initiative will serve as a replicable framework for advancing skin health equity in other urban centers nationwide.

With funding from Eli Lilly, we'll conduct:  

• Skin screenings and education across African American Communities in the Greater Houston Metropolitan Area 

• Provide training for Community Health Workers

• Create Culturally-tailored education on 3 priority conditions: Alopecia | Eczema | Psoriasis 

• Direct Impact: Connect with residents through events, screenings, and resource navigation

A series of monthly community-based events will bring dermatological care directly to communities of color through December 2025:

• Four large community events featuring the Lilly mobile unit are planned for the following proposed dates: September 20, 2025, October 28-30, 2025, October 31, 2025 and November 15,2025. 

• Monthly bingo sessions incorporating skin health education

• On-site skin screenings and risk assessments

• Education and awareness stations

• Accessible locations including barbershops, churches, community centers, and local parks

The AfAHC Committee, Community Health Worker Black Affinity Group, is a transformative initiative dedicated to advancing health equity, addressing systemic disparities, and empowering Black communities through culturally relevant, sustainable, and inclusive health interventions. Rooted in the lived experiences and expertise of Black Community Health Workers (CHWs), this group serves as a vital bridge between healthcare systems and the communities they serve. Our mission is to create a supportive ecosystem where CHWs are recognized as essential leaders in health equity, equipped with the tools, resources, and opportunities to thrive professionally and make lasting impacts in their communities. 

The group’s initiatives, such as the Skin Deep: Melanin Matters Initiative and The Bridge to Equity Expo, coming soon, complement AfAHC’s existing programs like the Power RX Pharmacy, an exhibit creating more awareness about clinical trials and research, "Chop It Up: Black Box Edition" cooking demonstrations and food pantry partnerships, Sunnyside UP, a neighborhood community health initiative and so many more programs. Together, these efforts create a holistic approach to health equity, addressing both immediate needs and long-term systemic change.  

Program Activities:

1. Workforce Development & Professional Growth

   • Training & Credentialing: Offering tailored training programs, certifications (e.g., Certified Melanin Skin Health Educators), and workshops to enhance CHWs’ skills and expertise.

   • Leadership Pathways: Supporting career advancement and leadership opportunities within health systems and community organizations.

   • Mentorship Programs: Pairing experienced CHWs with newcomers to foster professional growth and knowledge sharing.  

2. Advocacy, Equity & Inclusion

   • Policy Engagement: Amplifying the voices of Black CHWs in decision-making processes to ensure fair pay, career mobility, and workplace inclusion.

   • Health Equity Initiatives: Addressing systemic racism and barriers to care through advocacy and community-centered solutions.

   • Cultural Pride & Identity: Honoring the heritage, resilience, and cultural wisdom of Black communities in all health interventions.  

3. Community Wellness & Sustainability

   • Resource Navigation: Developing comprehensive toolkits to assist CHWs in connecting individuals to essential resources like healthcare, housing, food security, and transportation.

   • Clinical Linkage to Care: Facilitating seamless transitions between community resources and clinical care to improve health outcomes.

   • Community Events: Hosting health fairs, wellness workshops, and outreach programs to engage residents and promote culturally responsive health initiatives.  

4. Collaborative Networks & Partnerships

   • CHW Hubs: Establishing peer support networks and resource-sharing hubs to strengthen collaboration among CHWs.

   • Educational Institutions: Partnering with universities and training programs to recruit and support recent graduates and current CHWs.

   • Community Organizations: Collaborating with local churches, community centers, and nonprofits to expand outreach and impact.

Community-Focused Impact:

The AfAHC Black CHW Affinity Group is deeply rooted in the communities we serve.

Our programs are designed to:

• Crush Health Disparities: Address the root causes of health inequities by providing targeted interventions and resources tailored to the needs of Black communities.  

• Enhance Access to Care: Simplify access to healthcare and social services through CHW-led navigation and clinical linkage programs.  

• Promote Resilience & Wellness: Support the physical, mental, and emotional well-being of CHWs and community members through self-care initiatives and wellness programs.  

Workforce Sustainability Plan:

To ensure long-term impact, the AfAHC Black CHW Affinity Group focuses on creating sustainable workforce options for CHWs, including:  

1. Solo Entrepreneurship  

   • Training CHWs to operate as independent consultants, providing services to healthcare organizations, nonprofits, and community groups.

2. Collaborative Networks  

   • Establishing CHW hubs that allow for peer support, resource sharing, and collective impact.  

3. Funding & Partnerships  

   • Securing grants, contracts, and partnerships with payors, healthcare systems, and community organizations to sustain CHW initiatives.  

4. Certification & Professional Development  

   • Offering Texas DSHS-approved certifications, such as the Certified Melanin Skin Health Educators (CMSHE) program, to enhance CHWs’ credentials and career opportunities.

Upcoming Initiatives:

1. Skin Deep: Melanin Matters Initiative  

   • The Skin Deep: Melanin Matters Initiative is dedicated to enhancing the health and wellness of individuals with melanin-rich skin. Our program certifies Community Health Workers (CHWs) as Certified Melanin Skin Health Educators (CMSHE), providing them with Continuing Education Units (CEUs) approved by the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS).

2. The Bridge to Equity Expo (Coming Soon)

   • A Social Determinants of Health Resource Fair bringing together over 100 organizations to address SDOH issues like housing, food security, and healthcare access.  

3. CHW Workforce Development Initiative  

   • A comprehensive program offering training, credentialing, and business development opportunities for CHWs. 

Join Us:

The AfAHC Black CHW Affinity Group invites community members, organizations, and stakeholders to join us in our mission to advance health equity and empower Black communities. Together, we can create a future where every individual has equitable access to health resources and opportunities.  Contact Us:  

• Email: afahchouston@gmail.com  

• Membership Dues & Donations: PayPal: afahchouston@gmail.com

Through collaboration, advocacy, and innovation, the AfAHC Black CHW Affinity Group is transforming health outcomes for Black communities, one connection at a time. Join us in building a healthier, more equitable future for all.