The James Irvine Foundation Leadership Awards have recognized six outstanding leaders this year, with a special spotlight on Shantay R. Davies-Balch. As the President and CEO of the Black Wellness & Prosperity Center (BWPC) in Downtown Fresno, Davies-Balch has been awarded $350,000 to support her organization's mission. This grant aims to address critical health disparities among marginalized communities, particularly focusing on improving maternal and infant health outcomes for Black mothers. The BWPC will use the funds to enhance its programs, train more doulas, and collaborate closely with community partners to ensure better healthcare access.
Advancing Maternal Health for Marginalized Communities
Shantay R. Davies-Balch's leadership at the Black Wellness & Prosperity Center is pivotal in addressing the alarming rates of maternal mortality among Black women. The center plans to leverage the grant money to strengthen its initiatives aimed at improving healthcare for vulnerable populations. By connecting with decision-makers in hospitals and advocating for policy changes, the BWPC seeks to create a more equitable healthcare system.
Data from the CDC reveals that in 2021, the maternal mortality rate for Black women was significantly higher than other demographics, standing at 70 deaths per 100,000 live births. Davies-Balch emphasizes the emotional and systemic challenges faced when tackling issues like racism, social justice, and environmental justice within maternal child health. The BWPC's efforts are not only about providing direct care but also ensuring that the voices of these communities are heard by those who can effect change. The grant will enable the center to expand its reach and impact, ultimately striving to deliver excellent care and support to their clients.
Expanding Support Through Doula Training Programs
One of the key areas where the grant will make a significant difference is in expanding the BWPC’s Doula Training Program. The shortage of trained doulas in Fresno and the Central Valley is a pressing issue, and the center aims to address this gap. Currently, they have 12 trained doulas, but with the additional funding, they hope to increase this number to 30 by the end of next year. This expansion will provide much-needed support to expectant mothers and their families.
Davies-Balch highlights the importance of doulas in offering continuous physical, emotional, and informational support during pregnancy and childbirth. The training program will equip more individuals with the skills and knowledge necessary to assist marginalized communities effectively. Moreover, the BWPC intends to extend its services to other BIPOC groups, fostering a broader network of support and advocacy. The grant will facilitate partnerships with local organizations, enhancing the center's ability to connect with and serve the community on a deeper level. Ultimately, this initiative aims to empower and uplift underrepresented groups, ensuring they receive the care and resources they deserve.
In a recent meeting of the College Station Independent School District (CSISD) Board of Trustees, financial planning for the upcoming 2025-2026 academic year took center stage. With the Texas Legislature's session underway, concerns over stagnant funding allocations and potential budget cuts dominated discussions. The board also addressed critical issues such as school nurse compensation and ongoing construction projects for Career and Technical Education (CTE). The trustees expressed frustration over the lack of action regarding the basic allotment, which has remained unchanged since 2019, significantly impacting the district’s ability to meet its financial obligations.
The CSISD leadership is grappling with the implications of the state's inaction on the basic allotment, a crucial source of funding that directly affects staffing levels and operational costs. Superintendent Tim Harkrider highlighted the importance of this allocation, noting that it provides essential flexibility for making sound financial decisions. Despite efforts to maintain fiscal stability, the district faced a $1.2 million budget reduction last year and anticipates further cuts. Harkrider emphasized the need for equitable treatment in the distribution of taxpayer funds, advocating for transparency and fairness across all educational institutions.
Moreover, the board approved measures to enhance recruitment and retention of school nurses by increasing their compensation. Recognizing the national shortage of full-time nurses in public schools, CSISD aims to bridge this gap by offering more competitive salaries. However, to manage the increased expenses, the work calendar for Licensed Vocational Nurses (LVN) will be shortened from 192 to 187 days annually. This adjustment reflects the district's commitment to balancing financial constraints with the health needs of students.
Additionally, progress on the CTE center continued with the approval of the Guaranteed Maximum Price (GMP) for the construction of a metal building. This project, part of a broader 2023 bond package, will provide specialized facilities for various technical programs. The decision to prioritize this phase of construction stems from extended lead times for materials, ensuring timely completion of the facility. Future phases of the CTE center will be evaluated and approved as needed.
As the legislative session unfolds, the CSISD remains vigilant in addressing its financial challenges while striving to enhance educational opportunities for students. The district's proactive approach to budgeting and infrastructure development underscores its dedication to providing quality education despite external uncertainties. The board's actions reflect a balanced strategy aimed at sustaining current operations while investing in future growth initiatives.
In today's dining landscape, it's essential to find ways to enjoy meals out without breaking the bank. From strategic planning to embracing traditional dining customs, there are numerous methods to cut costs while still savoring delicious food. This article explores practical tips for saving money when eating at restaurants, highlighting the importance of preparation, choosing smaller portions, and taking advantage of special offers. By adopting these strategies, diners can enjoy quality meals without worrying about hefty bills.
Dining on a Budget: Practical Tips for Cost-Conscious Eaters
In the vibrant world of modern dining, finding budget-friendly options has never been more crucial. One effective approach is to come prepared with a plan. Before heading out, check the restaurant’s website or social media for current prices and specials. This preparation allows you to tailor your order to fit your budget comfortably. For instance, many establishments offer appetizers, sides, and small plates that can be just as satisfying as full entrees. Sharing these dishes among friends can create a delightful communal dining experience without the expense.
Another key strategy is to focus on lunch rather than dinner. Lunch menus often feature more affordable options, and the midday meal can be an excellent way to break up the workweek. Neighborhood eateries and local favorites tend to offer lower prices compared to trendy new spots, making them ideal choices for cost-conscious diners. Additionally, happy hours provide fantastic deals on both food and drinks, allowing you to indulge without overspending.
For those who prefer to dine in, consider picking up your meal instead of ordering delivery. Delivery fees can significantly increase the final bill, so opting for pickup not only saves money but also ensures your food arrives hot and fresh. Lastly, moderating alcohol consumption can further reduce costs. Enjoy a single drink mindfully rather than ordering multiple rounds.
By integrating these strategies into your dining routine, you can enjoy memorable meals without straining your wallet.
From a reader's perspective, this advice highlights the importance of mindful spending and thoughtful planning. It encourages us to appreciate the value of community dining and the pleasures of simpler, more economical meals. Ultimately, it reminds us that enjoying good food doesn't have to come with a high price tag; it's about making smart choices that enhance our overall dining experience.