"We know that our community suffers disproportionately
from a number of health conditions. The African-American Community Health
Advisory Committee (AACHAC) wants to raise awareness of the issues,
promote a healthier lifestyle and become strong advocates for access
to health care services. All people want the best for themselves, their
family and their community. The model developed by the African-American
Community Health Advisory Committee is working and making a difference."
- Gloria Brown
What is the AACHAC? The African-American Community Health Advisory
Committee is a community partnership with the Mills-Peninsula Health
Services and the faith community. AACHAC was established in 1995 with
the belief that committed volunteers from predominately African-American
based churches could organize and develop strategies that address health
issues impacting African-Americans in San Mateo and San Francisco Counties.
To date, AACHAC partners with 22 churches in San Mateo and San Francisco Counties. AACHAC's model is extremely effective and well accepted by congregations. As stated by one Pastor on the Advisory Committee, " African-Americans makeup one of the smallest ethnic groups in San Mateo County, yet the rate of deaths from diseases and violence is staggering. The Church must play a critical role in helping to save lives."
How is the AACHAC staffed? AACHAC is staffed by AACHAC volunteers and personnel from the Mills-Peninsula Health Services. Grants provide modest stipends for church liaisons involved in special projects. Additionally, health professionals and educators with different areas of expertise support the committee on an ongoing bases.
How are AACHAC’s priorities established? AACHAC has an annual planning process to determine program priorities.
Input is obtained from partnering churches, advisory committee members, health professionals, community partners, local citizens and the Mills-Peninsula Health Services staff . Advisory committee members assume key leadership positions and work closely with subcommittees to plan, implement and evaluate each AACHAC sponsored activity.
How is AACHAC funded? Individuals, grants, Foundations and the Mills-Peninsula Health Services support AACHAC's activities and programs. Additionally, in-kind contributions totaling more than $40,000 annually help support AACHAC's outreach activities.
Where is AACHAC located? AACHAC serves communities primarily in San Mateo County and designated communities in San Francisco County, California. San Mateo County is a suburban community with a population of 760,000 of which the African-American community makes up 5 percent of the population. It is bordered on the north by San Francisco, on the south by Santa Clara County, on the east by the San Francisco Bay and on the west by the Pacific Ocean.
For more information, please contact
at (650) 696-4378.
