Connecting Across Culture
A key aim of the work done by Southwest Washington Accountable Community of Health (SWACH) is to amplify and support the work done by local Community-Based Workers. By providing resources and support, we can find innovative avenues for CBWs to have impactful interactions with community members.
SWACH, along with Youth and Family Link, supports the Mobilizing Culturally Appropriate Community-Based Workforce (MCAW) cohort, which originally came into existence as a way to improve COVID-19 vaccine education and access in BIPOC, medically underserved, and unhoused populations. Thanks to a grant from CoMagine, the work of the MCAW cohort continues. The group is now centering their outreach on supporting general vaccine outreach and chronic condition education in underserved communities, working closely with African American and Black populations.
On Saturday, October 7, the group hosted Connecting Across Culture, an event designed to bring diverse communities together in celebration and inspiration. A key part of the event was building connection to resources and services across the region, including health and wellness supports.
Through song, dance, and food, communities across Clark County were able to share part of their culture with one another, while addressing important topics like vaccination.
This innovative approach to wellness highlights the impact MCAW has in our region. They are able to provide trusted, meaningful connection to individuals in a way that aligns with their heritage and culture. Care that centers cultural responsiveness is uniquely empowering, and helps break down many of the barriers community members face in accessing support and resources.
SWACH is deeply grateful for the work being led by the MCAW cohort. Their work continues to create meaningful change for underserved individuals in our region. We are also grateful to CoMagine for their partnership and funding of these efforts. Their support allows us to meet community members where they are, and connect in an authentic way.
Funding for the project currently runs through May 2024, with more engagement and outreach opportunities in the works. To learn more, contact us at info@southwestach.org.
