Member Spotlight

What prompted you to join Southside Wellness Coalition? I wanted to help my community. I used to be a drug addict for over 30 years and I have a passion to help others not go down the same roads I have traveled. During that that time I also struggled with suicidal ideations, so I also…

What prompted you to join Southside Wellness Coalition? I was invited to join the Southside Wellness Coalition when I accepted my current position as Community Engagement and Partnerships Coordinator at the Central Virginia VA Healthcare System. The SWC has been a great resource to learn about the area, local initiatives, and how VA can best…

What prompted you to join Southside Wellness Coalition? Shared interest in community needs, new perspectives, networking opportunities, continuing education, trainings, and access to valuable resources What do you consider to be one of Southside’s biggest challenges? Health care access and health equity What do you consider to be one of Southside’s biggest strengths? I think…

What prompted you to join Southside Wellness Coalition? Seeing what services are providing the region, providing help where needed to see the community recover, de-stigmatize, and support one another. What do you consider to be one of Southside’s biggest challenges? The expansive footprint to be covered – making sure all services are understood and easily…

What prompted you to join Southside Wellness Coalition? I am acquainted with the great work Southside Wellness Coalition has done and is doing in our local communities. I had been attending meetings for over a year. I thought to myself, “I want to take my advocacy and action further.” Those thoughts are what prompted me…

What prompted you to join Southside Wellness Coalition? I have participated in several of the community trainings and found these to be beneficial. As a result of this I have been on the mailing list for quite some time and was recently asked to join the Leadership Team. What do you consider to be one…

What prompted you to join Southside Wellness Coalition? I joined SWC to be a part of an organization that identifies the community needs, creates awareness, and works to spearhead change. What do you consider to be one of Southside’s biggest challenges? Creating a cohesive approach between agencies to adjusting community problems within rural Virginia. What…

What prompted you to join Southside Wellness Coalition? I have seen firsthand, both personally and professionally, how substance use disorder can impact not only an individual and their family, but an entire community. Being part of an organization that is dedicated to reducing the impact drugs have on our community is a privilege, as well…

What prompted you to join Southside Wellness Coalition? When I joined VCU and became Practice Manager for our Community Health and Wellness and Behavioral Health Practices, CMH was part of SWC. I was invited to work with the coalition on behalf of CMH, feeling I would learn and work well with the coalition for our…

What prompted you to join Southside Wellness Coalition? I have a deep love for my community and a passion for advocating for everyone’s access to healthcare, housing, and wellbeing. What do you consider to be one of Southside’s biggest challenges? Many folks I encounter are often afraid to seek help until it is too late…