"Providing a positive example and resources could one day encourage others to do the same."

This year marks 20 years that AmeriCorps has helped to positively influence numerous communities around the country. March was designated as the “Healthy Futures” month of AmeriCorps’ anniversary year and as a health related AmeriCorps organization, the four National Health Corps sites highlighted the importance of health advocacy and health-related service activities.  Philadelphia Health Corps Members help to create healthy futures by providing nutrition education, medication access assistance and insurance benefits enrollment services.

There are many ways in which an individual can improve their health and the health of those around them.  I have been frequently reminded of this since beginning my service term with PHC last September. In discussions with physicians at my health center, I have learned a great deal about the issues they deal with. Many of these issues are related to patients’ diet, which is ultimately determined by the larger issue of a lack of access to healthy food options and a lack of knowledge about what is included in a healthy diet and proper nutrition.

Across the street from Health Center 3, the Philadelphia Department of Public Health host site where I serve, there is a farmer’s market at which local farms are able to sell their produce to the community.  The merchandise includes fresh fruits and vegetables and healthy snack alternatives. This is an example of how communities are moving towards creating healthy futures. What strikes me the most at this Farmer’s Market is the high level of youth participation each week; not only are they buying produce, but many are there running stands.  I have even seen youth group members selling healthy snack alternatives! One such group is present most weeks and sells a variety of granola bars that they have made from scratch using only whole, unprocessed ingredients. They often offer samples to customers and ask people to guess the bar’s ingredients.  This is not only a healthy option for the food itself, but an interactive nutrition education activity that helps to draw more youth to the station and spread their reach. 

The Farmers’ Market and these nutrition education stands are great examples of how community members themselves are creating ways to promote and provide for their own healthy futures. It is imperative that we continue to do our part in the community!  Providing a positive example and resources could one day encourage others to do the same.
 

This post was written by PHC member Sekela Mwantembe.
Sekela serves at the Philadelphia Department of Public Health - Ambulatory Health Services as a Patient Assistance Program Advocate.