Throughout the month of February, Riverside Community Health Foundation proudly acknowledged the remarkable achievements, enduring contributions, and profound sacrifices of African Americans to our nation's rich tapestry.
A MONTH OF PROUD MOMENTS
Riverside Community Health Foundation was proud to take part in Riverside’s 45th Annual Black History Month Parade & Expo, joining in on this year’s theme: "Serving Our Community."
We had an incredible day filled with community spirit, cultural pride, and meaningful connections! A big thank you to everyone who stopped by our booth to share in the celebration.
On February 20, the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. Omega Delta Omega Chapter presented a generous donation of $3,500 to The Pink Ribbon Place. The funds directed towards the cancer resource center will directly benefit cancer patients and families across the Greater Riverside area.
For more information on the Omega Delta Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., please visit their website at https://www.akaodo.org.
FACES OF OUR FOUNDATION
Carl Olton, M.A., is a Community Health Worker with the Pulse of Change: Black Health Equity Initiative, leading hypertension screenings and health education workshops to promote healthy lifestyles in Riverside County.
Dawnesha K. Beaver, MPH, MAT, is Vice President of Programs and Services and a passionate advocate for justice and health equity. She tirelessly champions the intersection of faith, justice, and health, working to ensure all communities have access to the care they deserve.
Jamila Coulson Adams,Senior Health Educator for Teen Health, oversees the CA Personal Responsibilities Education Program, providing health education to youth ages 12-24. In her first year at RCHF, she and her team reached over 1,900 RUSD students.
Jasmine M. Smith, MA, PMP, is the Health Strategies Manager. She oversees program operations and reporting to drive impactful health initiatives. She is dedicated to building inclusive systems, challenging the status quo, and creating lasting change.
LaNeisha Johnson is a Health Navigator and Coach. She is dedicated to improving the health and future of our most vulnerable populations – our children and the mothers who birth and care for them.
Lee Walker, an Abundant Birth Health Coach and dedicated doula at RCHF, supports families with essential resources and hands-on care. As part of the Abundant Birth Project, she has helped serve over 70 families, advancing maternal and infant health for more equitable birth outcomes.
Reeknola Jarmon, a Health Educator at RCHF, transforms ideas into action through innovative programs, civic engagement, and dynamic partnerships that empower youth.
Terri Akens, Sr. Director of Health Strategies, oversees programs in chronic disease, teen, maternal, and community health and is an emerging leader in the IEHP Foundation’s Champions for Vibrant Health Leadership Network.
HISTORIC LEADERS IN HEALTHCARE
Dr. Charles R. Drew
Dr. Drew was a pioneering American surgeon and researcher who advanced blood storage techniques and helped develop large-scale blood banks during World War II, saving thousands of lives. He opposed racial segregation in blood donation, resigning from the American Red Cross in protest.
Mary Eliza Mahoney,
Mary Eliza Mahoney, the first African American registered nurse in the U.S., championed better working conditions, fair pay, and professional recognition for nurses. She co-founded the National Association of Colored Graduate Nurses (NACGN), paving the way for equitable opportunities in nursing.
Dr. Daniel Hale Williams
A pioneering cardiologist, he founded Provident Hospital, the first Black-owned, non-segregated hospital in the U.S., and performed the first successful open-heart surgery in 1893. He also co-founded the National Medical Association, empowering Black physicians and advancing medical equality.
PROGRAM SPOTLIGHTS
Riverside Community Health Foundation, through The California Abundant Birth Project (CA ABP), provides monthly unconditional income supplements to pregnant individuals at the highest risk of preterm birth, starting in the 1st or 2nd trimester for 12-18 months.
Our team is partnering with the CHCF’s Pulse of Change: A Black Health Initiative, working to create a safer and stronger healthcare system for Black Californians. Additionally, the initiative will provide:
• Free mobile blood pressure screenings
• Transportation support
• Referrals to culturally competent, trained community health workers
The Walnut Tribe and The Pink Ribbon Place are partnering to provide a space for men who are affected by prostate cancer to connect, converse, and gain support. Register with James Miller at MillerTyme2@hotmail.com or 909-637-0384.
