EquiTEA

Transgender Visibility: Invisible No More Nov 14, 2024

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

Beyond the Pink Ribbon: Building Support Networks and Addressing Breast Cancer Disparities Oct 31, 2024

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:

https://pink.rchf.org/

Centering Lived Experiences: The Heart of Harm Reduction Oct 22, 2024

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)

Food for Thought: Addressing Food Insecurity in the Inland Empire Sep 11, 2024

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)

From Chains to Change: Exploring the Intersection of BIPOC Mental Health and Incarceration Jul 15, 2024

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

Fatherhood Unfiltered: Real Talk with Real Fathers. "Ain't no hood, like fatherhood!" Jun 13, 2024

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.

Supervisor Spotlight: Dr. Yxstian Gutierrez May 30, 2024

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

Piecing the Puzzle Together: Autism Acceptance Month Apr 16, 2024

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)

Minisode: Women's History Month - Supporting Women in Leadership Mar 28, 2024

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.

Behind the Scenes: Uncovering Colorectal Cancer Disparities Feb 27, 2024

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

Minisode: Riverside County Health Coalition Feb 08, 2024

On this special mini-sode of EquiTEA, Greg had the opportunity to attend the Riverside County Health Coalition and connect with local community organizations and leaders on the importance of collaboration and representing the community.

Minisode: Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Jan 15, 2024

On this special mini-sode of EquiTEA, the Riverside County Health Equity team reflect on the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and why it is important to recognize and celebrate this federal holiday.

Follow us on Instagram & TikTok @EquityInRivCo

Inquires can be directed to RivCoHealthEquity@ruhealth.org

You Matter Dec 26, 2023

On this episode of EquiTEA, Dorothy had the opportunity to speak with Myeshia Bobo, Monique and Sean Cortes of Riverside County’s Behavioral Health and Teen Suicide Awareness Prevention Programs. Please listen as these mental health experts discuss the importance of recognizing the signs of crisis and share valuable resources.

Resources

To learn more about the Riverside County Suicide Prevention Coalition please visit: https://www.rivcospc.org

To learn more about the Know the Signs campaign please visit: https://www.suicideispreventable.org

If you or someone you know is experiencing crisis, please call any of the following 24/7 free and confidential helplines:

National Suicide Helpline- 988
Inland SoCal Crisis Helpline- 951-686-HELP
United Way- 211

Anti-Racism and Mental Health: A Candid Conversation with Assemblymember Dr. Corey Jackson Nov 20, 2023

On this episode of EquiTEA, Dorothy and Greg had the opportunity to chat with Assemblymember Dr. Corey Jackson. Dr. Jackson represents the 60th Assembly District and is the face behind the Anti-Racism and Mental Health Bill Packages. Please listen as Dr. Jackson discusses these packages and other initiatives he has in store in the upcoming year.

Resources

To learn more about Assemblymember Dr. Corey Jackson and his initiatives please visit: https://a60.asmdc.org/

Latinos: Driving Prosperity, Power, and Progress in America Oct 24, 2023

On this special Hispanic Heritage month episode of EquiTEA, Greg had the opportunity to chat with Luz Gallegos, Executive Director of TODEC Legal Center. TODEC is a grassroots immigration justice organization that services the Perris and Coachella Valley regions of Riverside County. Please listen as Luz shares valuable legal, disaster and COVID resources her organization provides for our immigrant communities and their families.

Resources

For more information on TODEC Legal Center please visit: https://www.todec.org

Latinos: Impulsando la Prosperidad, el Poder y el Progreso en América Oct 24, 2023

En este episodio especial del mes de la Herencia Hispana de EquiTEA, Greg tuvo la oportunidad de hablar con Luz Gallegos, Directora Ejecutiva del Centro Legal TODEC. TODEC es una organización de justicia migratoria de base que presta servicios en las regiones de Perris y Coachella Valley en el condado de Riverside. Por favor, escuche mientras Luz comparte valiosos recursos legales, de desastre y COVID que su organización ofrece a nuestras comunidades de inmigrantes y sus familias.

Recursos Para obtener más información sobre el Centro Legal TODEC, visite: https://www.todec.org

National Breastfeeding Month - This is Our Why Pt.2 Aug 28, 2023

On this episode of EquiTEA, we are joined by Black Infant Health (BIH) staff Keiyana Carter and Maya Davis as we take a deep dive into breastfeeding disparities. Please listen as Keiyana and Maya discuss their personal experiences with breastfeeding as well as the services the BIH program provides for breastfeeding mothers and birthing people in Riverside County.

Resources

For more information on Riverside County’s Black Infant Health Program please visit: https://www.ruhealth.org/public-health/black-infant-health or call (800) 794-4814.

https://thousanddays.org/updates/indigenous-milk-medicine-week-nourishing-our-futures/

https://www.zippia.com/lactation-consultant-jobs/demographics/

National Breastfeeding Month - This is Our Why Pt. 1 Aug 28, 2023

On this episode of EquiTEA, Andie had the opportunity to chat with breastfeeding peer counselors Tatiana Jackson and Charita Logan of Sistah Connection. Sistah Connection is breastfeeding support group for African American mothers receiving services through the Women Infant Children (WIC) program in Riverside County. Please listen as Tatiana and Charita discuss the benefits and challenges associated with breastfeeding as well as the services the WIC program provides for breastfeeding mothers and birthing people in Riverside County.

Resources

For more information on Riverside County’s Women Infant Children’s (WIC) Program please visit: https://www.ruhealth.org/wic or call (855) 748-4376.

For more breastfeeding information, resources or assistance please visit: https://www.ruhealth.org/breastfeeding or call the 24/7 Loving Support Breastfeeding Helpline (888) 451-2499.

California Children's Services (CCS) Jul 26, 2023

On this episode of EquiTEA, Greg sat with Susan Siffermann and Melissa Pudgil of California Children’s Services (CCS). CCS is a statewide program that provides funding for treatment of children with certain physical limitations and chronic health conditions or diseases. CCS also authorizes and pays for specific medical services and equipment provided by CCS-approved specialists. Please listen as Susan and Melissa discuss the unique challenges faced by individuals with disabilities and their families.

Resources

For more information on Riverside County’s California Children’s Services Program please visit: https://www.ruhealth.org/public-health/california-children-services or call (951) 358-5401.

For more information on the So Cal Trykers Chapter of AMBUCS please visit: https://socaltrykers.wixsite.com/ambucs or call (714) 356-4475.

Follow us on Instagram & TikTok @EquityInRivCo

Inquiries can be directed to RivCoHealthEquity@ruhealth.org

Minisode: Juneteenth Jun 19, 2023

On this special mini-sode of EquiTEA, Andie and Dorothy dive into the history of Juneteenth and why it is important to recognize and celebrate this federal holiday.

Follow us on Instagram & TikTok @EquityInRivCo

Inquires can be directed to RivCoHealthEquity@ruhealth.org

References:

https://nmaahc.si.edu/explore/stories/historical-legacy-juneteenth#:~:text=Freedom%20finally%20came%20on%20June,newly%20freed%20people%20in%20Texas.

https://www.history.com/news/what-is-juneteenth

https://www.smithsonianmag.com/history/juneteenth-our-other-independence-day-16340952/

https://www.juneteenth.com/history/

https://thehill.com/changing-america/respect/diversity-inclusion/597742-florida-senate-approves-ban-on-lessons-about/

https://www.battlefields.org/learn/articles/brief-overview-american-civil-war

Juneteenth Becomes a Federal Holiday & An Insurrectionist Runs for Office | The Daily Show

Black-Ish "Juneteenth"

LGBTQIA+ Pride Month Jun 08, 2023

On this episode of EquiTEA, Andie sat down with founder and CEO of TruEvolution Gabriel Maldonado. TruEvolution is a non-profit, community-based organization that fights for health equity and racial justice to advance the quality of life and human dignity of the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Queer community. This organization provides a wide array of services including housing assistance, behavioral health assistance, HIV care and HIV prevention. Please listen as Gabriel discusses the importance of recognizing and celebrating Pride Month.

Resources

For more information about TruEvolution please visit https://truevolution.org

Follow us on Instagram & TikTok @EquityInRivCo

Inquiries can be directed to RivCoHealthEquity@ruhealth.org

References: https://www.dragqueenstoryhour.org/about/ https://www.ppic.org/blog/californias-lgbt-population/

https://transequality.org/issues/resources/understanding-drag https://www.cnn.com/2023/04/06/politics/anti-lgbtq-plus-state-bill-rights-dg/index.html

Asian American, Native Hawaiian & Pacific Islander Heritage Month Pt. 2 May 24, 2023

On this episode of EquiTEA, Greg and Andie continue their Asian American Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) Heritage series with featured guest Lolofi Soakai. Lolofi is Executive Director and Founder of Motivating Action Leadership Opportunity (MALO), a nonprofit that serves Tongan Americans in the Inland Empire through youth mentorship, job readiness, resource literacy and cultural gathering events.

Resources

For more information about Motivating Action Leadership Opportunity (MALO) and their events please visit https://www.malotongaie.org

Follow us on Instagram & TikTok @EquityInRivCo

Inquiries can be directed to RivCoHealthEquity@ruhealth.org

Asian American, Native Hawaiian, Pacific Islander Heritage Month Pt. 1 May 10, 2023

On this episode of EquiTEA, Greg and Andie kick off their 2-part Asian American Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) Heritage and Mental Health Awareness Month series with featured guests Harold Custodio and Nicole Dumaguindin of the Asian Pacific Counseling and Treatment Centers (APCTC). This organization provides vital mental health and social services for members of the Asian Pacific communities. Please listen as these subject matter experts discuss Asian American Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander Heritage Month and how the COVID-19 pandemic impacted the mental health of this community.

Resources

For more information about Asian Pacific Counseling and Treatment Centers (APCTC) please visit https://www.apctc.org

Facebook: Asian Pacific Counseling Treatment Center

Instagram: @iekapwayouth

For more information about Asian American Task Force- Riverside and join their bimonthly meetings please email aatf.riverside@gmail.com

Upcoming Events

Asian American Task Force HOPE Festival 2023- May 20, 2023. Register at: http://bit.ly/hope2023rsvp

Follow us on Instagram & TikTok @EquityInRivCo

Inquiries can be directed to RivCoHealthEquity@ruhealth.org

Black Maternal Health Week Apr 11, 2023

On this episode of EquiTEA, Greg and guest co-host Dorothy Delphin sit down with Maternal Adolescent Child Health (MCAH) staff to discuss Black Maternal Health Week. Curley Palmer is a Program Coordinator for the Perinatal Equity Initiative (PEI) Program and Keiyana Carter is a former Black Infant Health (BIH) program participant and is now the program’s Community Outreach Liaison. Please listen as these maternal child experts discuss the importance of recognizing and celebrating Black Maternal Health Week and the services MCAH provide for Black mothers and birthing people in Riverside County.

Resources

For more information on the Riverside County Black Infant Health Program please visit: https://www.ruhealth.org/public-health/black-infant-health or call (800) 794-4814.

Follow Riverside County’s Black Infant Health Program on Social Media!

Instagram: @BlackInfantHealthRivCo

Facebook: Black Infant Health of Riverside County

Twitter: BIHRivco

For more information on the Riverside County Perinatal Equity Initiative Program please visit https://www.ruhealth.org/perinatal-equity-initiative

For more information on the Sankofa Community Doula Program please visit: https://www.sankofabirthworkers.com

For more information on the Black Fatherhood Program please visit: https://www.sigmabetaxi.com/black-fatherhood

Upcoming Events

Black Infant Health’s “Melanin Momma’s In Motion” stroller walk- April 12, 2023. Register at: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/melanin-mommas-in-motion-tickets-588516557867

Sankofa Birthworkers Collective’s “Our Joy- Black Maternal Health Week Celebration”- April 15, 2023. Register at: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/our-joy-black-maternal-health-week-celebration-tickets-596271503117

The Coalition for Black Health and Wellness’ “Tea For The Soul” self-care event - May 7, 2023. Register at: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/tea-for-the-soul-tickets-588368194107

Follow us on Instagram & TikTok @EquityInRivCo

Inquiries can be directed to RivCoHealthEquity@ruhealth.org

RivCo's Equity Evolution Mar 27, 2023

On this episode of EquiTEA, Greg and Andie sit with Riverside County’s Health Equity Director Salomeh Wagaw to discuss all things equity. In this episode, you will learn the difference between equity and equality and how it relates to public health. You will also hear about the evolution of equity in Riverside’s own Public Health Department and the role COVID- 19 played in this evolution.

For more information about Riverside County’s health equity program please go to: www.ruhealth.org/public-health/health-equity-program

Follow us on Instagram & TikTok @EquityInRivCo

Inquiries can be directed to RivCoHealthEquity@ruhealth.org.

Black History Month Episode 1 Part 3 Feb 28, 2023

On today’s episode of EquiTEA, Greg and Andie conclude their conversation with Dr. Regina Patton- Stell and Minister Debra Williams. They discuss ways the County of Riverside can empower and uplift the African- American/Black communities, ways individuals of all races and ethnicities can celebrate Black History Month and how community members can engage with their organizations.

Resources

Antiracist Riverside- www.antiracistriverside.com

Building Resilient Communities (BRC)- www.brcus.org.

BRC is always seeking volunteers and donors. To find out how you can get involved contact their Community Engagement Team: Kathleen@brcus.org.

National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) Riverside Branch- www.naacpriversidebranch.org or text NAACP 1059 to 484848.

Upcoming Events

Inland Empire Antiracist Summit by CART-March 21, 2023 check out the antiracist website for more information.

Building Resilient Communities Faith Leaders Appreciation Breakfast- Friday, April 21, 2023. Register at https://bit.ly/1stFaithLeadersBreakfast

Building Resilient Communities Ark of Safety Community Resiliency Summit- Thursday, June 15, 2023. Register at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/ark-of-safety-community-resiliency-summit-in-person-event-tickets-514566631647

Black History Month Episode 1 Part 2 Feb 28, 2023

On today’s episode of EquiTEA, Greg and Andie continue their conversation with Dr. Regina Patton- Stell and Minister Debra Williams. In this episode, the guests share their experiences of navigating the professional world as Black women.

Resources

Antiracist Riverside- www.antiracistriverside.com

Building Resilient Communities (BRC)- www.brcus.org.

BRC is always seeking volunteers and donors. To find out how you can get involved contact their Community Engagement Team: Kathleen@brcus.org.

National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) Riverside Branch- www.naacpriversidebranch.org or text NAACP 1059 to 484848.

Upcoming Events

Inland Empire Antiracist Summit by CART-March 21, 2023 check out the antiracist website for more information.

Building Resilient Communities Faith Leaders Appreciation Breakfast- Friday, April 21, 2023. Register at https://bit.ly/1stFaithLeadersBreakfast

Building Resilient Communities Ark of Safety Community Resiliency Summit- Thursday, June 15, 2023. Register at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/ark-of-safety-community-resiliency-summit-in-person-event-tickets-514566631647

Black History Month Episode 1 Part 1 Feb 28, 2023

Welcome to the EquiTEA podcast, a show where hosts Gregory Mercado and Andie Tovar spill all the tea on all things Health Equity. On today’s episode of EquiTEA, Greg and Andie kick off their 3- part Black History Month series with featured guests Dr. Regina Patton Stell and Minister Debra Williams. Dr. Regina Patton Stell is president of the Riverside branch of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP), co-founder of Anti-Racist Riverside and proud member of the Delta Sigma Theta sorority. Minister Debra Williams is founder and CEO of Building Resilient Communities, a non-profit organization that aims to prepare communities and faith leaders for natural disasters.

Resources

Antiracist Riverside- www.antiracistriverside.com

Building Resilient Communities (BRC)- www.brcus.org.

BRC is always seeking volunteers and donors. To find out how you can get involved contact their Community Engagement Team: Kathleen@brcus.org.

National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) Riverside Branch- www.naacpriversidebranch.org or text NAACP 1059 to 484848.

Upcoming Events

Inland Empire Antiracist Summit by CART-March 21, 2023 check out the antiracist website for more information.

Building Resilient Communities Faith Leaders Appreciation Breakfast- Friday, April 21, 2023. Register at https://bit.ly/1stFaithLeadersBreakfast

Building Resilient Communities Ark of Safety Community Resiliency Summit- Thursday, June 15, 2023. Register at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/ark-of-safety-community-resiliency-summit-in-person-event-tickets-514566631647

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