Addressing health disparities in Alameda County has been a long-standing challenge, especially within the Black community. Chronic diseases like diabetes and heart disease, along with the impacts of COVID-19, have led to poor health outcomes. While community leaders are working hard to close these gaps, accessing critical resources such as funding and space has remained a significant challenge.

Launching Making Connections 5.0 to Address Health Disparities in Alameda County

To address these issues, Supervisor Keith Carson of Alameda County District 5 launched Making Connections 5.0. Jeweld Consulting played a key role in facilitating this initiative. By bringing together Black-led organizations and stakeholders from the public and private sectors, the goal was to create a platform for sharing resources and solving the critical challenges facing children, youth, and families in the county.

Empowering Community-Based Organizations

Making Connections 5.0 focused on nonprofit management and sustainability. Through this program, Jeweld Consulting equipped community-based organizations (CBOs) with the tools needed to navigate government and philanthropic funding. Additionally, the initiative introduced racial and health equity strategies, encouraging institutions to rethink their funding models and reduce the barriers that prevent CBOs from accessing vital resources.

Building Connections for Lasting Change

In addition, Jeweld Consulting organized forums that connected over 500 participants from CBOs with institutions offering mentorship and funding. These forums provided a valuable space for showcasing successful programs, exchanging ideas, and forming innovative partnerships. As a result, the connections made during these forums led to the launch of the Black Women’s Health Forum. This event series now empowers Black women by providing access to essential health resources and building supportive networks.

Strengthening Partnerships for a Healthier Future

Through Making Connections 5.0, Jeweld Consulting has increased the capacity of Black-led organizations in Alameda County while addressing health disparities. Moreover, the initiative has helped bridge gaps in health and wellness, driving long-term change within the community. By continuing to strengthen partnerships and provide strategic support, Making Connections 5.0 has made a lasting impact on the health and wellbeing of Alameda County’s Black residents.