Community Based Workforce for COVID-19 Vaccine Outreach Program

Submitted by Nicole Cohen

The newest program to Broward Regional Health Planning Council (BRHPC) is the Community Based Workforce for COVID-19 Vaccine Outreach Program led by Program Director, Jasmin D. Shirley, MSPH. This collaborative program engages three community partners that include, Holy Cross Health, Memorial Healthcare System and Mount Olive Development Corporation (MODCO); mobilizes community health workers and medical professionals to educate; assists individuals in getting the vaccine; addresses COVID-19 related health disparities and advances health equity.

The COVID-19 viral mutation, Omicron, be-came a real game-changer with significant impacts escalating throughout the state of Florida at a time we thought cases of the Delta variant were decreasing. Unfortunately, the more highly transmissible Omicron variant sky-rocketed significantly within unvaccinated populations resulting in severe illness, increasing hospitalizations, and increasing deaths.

When you’re sick, ordinary things become the most wonderful things in the world. Like going to work in the morning. Spending time with your family. Feeling like your normal self. Why put all that at risk because you didn’t get a fast, safe and free COVID vaccine? Get your vaccine today – call 954-561-9681 extension 1261 to find a vaccine site near you – no appointment necessary.

Artwork featured in Our Community: BRHPC would like to thank Fort Lauderdale Chapter (FL) of The Links, Incorporated and their Arts Facet for connecting our organization to the students of the Dillard High School Center for the Arts as warriors in the struggle to educate their peers about COVID-19 through art. A special shoutout to the teachers who embrace this program and allow their students to capture their feelings in their artwork. Below is a snapshot designed by one of these talented students.