AVANCE-Austin was recently recognized for their pivotal role in fostering healthy communities. Since September 2019, AVANCE-Austin has actively participated in the Community Strategy Team for the University of Texas’ (UT) comprehensive study, Whole Communities – Whole Health (WCWH).
On February 7th, Program Director Zobeida Guerrero and Program Coordinator Juliana Rodriguez accepted “The Guiding Light” award on behalf of AVANCE-Austin. This award was given in recognition of the Chapter’s steadfast support and invaluable guidance, which has significantly influenced the direction of UT’s WCWH initiative. The award ceremony took place on the UT campus during a research symposium.
Maggie Jaime, Executive Director of AVANCE-Austin, stated, “Our involvement in the Community Strategy Team ensures that the voices and experiences of the families we serve are represented in research that shapes policies and resources as it relates to the Social Determinants of Health. Our organization’s expertise in cultural responsiveness, particularly within Latino communities, helps ensure that solutions are informed by the real challenges and strengths of our community.”
The UT WCWH researchers have conducted a 5-year cohort study, collecting data on social determinants of health while engaging with residents of Eastern Travis County, focusing on communities that have limited access to resources and face health disparities.
Other organizations collaborating on the project include the Community Coalition for Health, Del Valle Community Coalition, Ojeda Middle School, WIC, and UT’s Children’s Wellness Center. The collaborative research effort is designed to drive significant change, with shared expertise focusing on a wide range of factors that influence health at both individual and systemic levels. The insights gained will help researchers develop models to engage specific neighborhoods to improve public health overall.
Learn more about UT WCWH by visiting UT Whole Communities Whole Health.