May 9, 2024

Dr. Shakari Hood | Colorado Black Health Collaborative

I was born and raised in Richmond, Indiana, where I began my collegiate studies. I am an alumnus of Ivy Tech Community College, Indiana University, and Indiana Wesleyan University. I obtained my master’s degree in human resource management while in Indiana and relocated to Colorado in 2019 to finish my doctorate in Business Administration, focusing on Healthcare Administration.

While in Colorado, I worked with a local Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) to complete my doctoral dissertation by assessing the organization’s financial status and sustainability. I was able to identify diversified targeted revenue streams that would not only aid in closing the uncompensated care gap but provide culturally sensitive health services to the underserved populations, while meeting the needs of each individual patient.

I now reside in Aurora, Colorado with my husband, three children, and two dogs. I have always had a passion for serving others with a commitment to making a difference in the communities of Colorado and surrounding areas. I hope to combine my educational background, personal experiences, and previous work in the non-profit and healthcare industry to provide the underserved, marginalized, and minority communities with equitable outcomes through the deliverance of advocacy, resources, frameworks, and tools to overcome social determinants of health, racism, and bias.

WHAT DO YOU STAND FOR? WHY IS THIS WORK IMPORTANT TO YOU?

As a trailblazing Black woman who is devoted to changing the stigma surrounding underserved communities, I stand for resilience, empowerment, and representation. I understand the intersecting challenges faced by marginalized groups, particularly within Black and underserved communities, and recognize the importance of addressing systemic inequities. I am committed to using my platform, expertise, and lived experiences to advocate for change, amplify marginalized voices, and challenge stereotypes and misconceptions. This work is important to me because I have personally navigated barriers and discrimination, and I am determined to create a more just and equitable society for future generations. I see my achievements as a testament to the potential within underserved communities, and I aim to inspire others to pursue education, leadership, and advocacy, knowing that systemic change is essential for breaking down barriers and uplifting underserved communities.

WHAT IMPACT ARE YOU MAKING?

During these unprecedented times, my impact is multifaceted and profound. I serve as a beacon of hope and inspiration for others, particularly those from marginalized communities who may face compounded challenges. My leadership provides representation and visibility, showing the world the strength, resilience, and capabilities of Black women in positions of influence. My work fosters a sense of unity and solidarity, bringing people together to address pressing issues and create positive change. My actions amplify marginalized voices, advocate for equity, justice, and inclusion, and challenge systemic injustices. By leading with empathy, compassion, and determination, I am not only shaping the present but also paving the way for a more equitable and just future for generations to come. My impact transcends boundaries, leaving a legacy of empowerment, progress, and social transformation.

WHAT (OR WHO) INSPIRES YOU TO DO THIS WORK?

My children, Sariah, Jaili, and SS inspire me to do this work. It is their unwavering adoration, strength, and encouragement that allow me to prosper. I wanted to demonstrate to my children that anything is imaginable if you follow your heart, work hard, and trust in God. As African American children who live during unprecedented times, they will face impediments, judgments, and distresses that will try to prevent their success. Statistics indicate that they will collapse, and I want to show them that they are full of prominence and can make a difference in this world. I have always devoted my journey to my children, and I dedicate all my achievements to them. I want them to know that I am honored to be their mother and that I will always eternally love them. I hope that their wealth of light, robustness, and amity not only shines upon me but within this world that so desperately needs it.

WHAT’S YOUR VISION, YOUR BIG DREAM FOR THE IMPACT YOU WANT TO MAKE?

I envision a future where communities have equitable access to comprehensive health services, where disparities in health outcomes are eliminated, and where awareness and education empower individuals to take control of their well-being. I aspire to create lasting change and a positive legacy by building community resilience, empowering individuals to become advocates for their own health, and inspiring future.

WHAT CHALLENGES ARE YOU FACING?

From an organizational perspective, our challenges include the economy, social support and community, historical trauma, cultural competency and sensitivity, healthcare disparities, lack of awareness and education, and stigma and cultural beliefs.

For CBHC, racial equity is the core of what we do! Racial equity means leveraging health and wellness as a catalyst for social change. When systems are not culturally centered, those most impacted by systemic oppression are those who remain on the fringe of society, suffering from social, physical, and mental health disparities disproportionately. Social change is intrinsically related to the work of social justice, and when we are successful, we have a social impact on the greater Black/African American community.

WHAT’S ONE THING YOU WANT PEOPLE TO KNOW ABOUT YOUR CAUSE AND/OR THE WORK YOU’RE DOING?

I want people to know that the power of collective action and the importance of inclusive leadership can lead to transformational change. It is important that readers understand that our approaches demonstrate that meaningful change requires collaboration, empathy, and a commitment to amplifying the voices and needs of those most affected by systemic inequities. Readers have the capacity to use their influence and platform to leverage and advocate for underserved communities and not only address immediate needs but also challenge the root causes of injustice and inequality. Every individual has a role to play in creating a more just and equitable society, and that true impact is achieved when we work together towards a common goal.

DO YOU HAVE A FAVORITE QUOTE OR WORDS OF INSPIRATION TO SHARE?

“The woman who does not require validation from anyone is the most feared individual on the planet.” – Mohadesa Najumi

HOW CAN OTHERS SUPPORT YOU OR YOUR CAUSE?

Join us in advocating for equitable healthcare access, investing in community-led initiatives, and addressing systemic injustices to ensure that every individual in the Black community has access to quality care and the opportunity to thrive.

The call to action for achieving health equity in Black communities is urgent and multifaceted. It requires a collective commitment to addressing the systemic injustices and disparities that have long plagued these communities. This call demands action at every level, from individuals advocating for equitable healthcare access and culturally competent care to policymakers enacting policies that address the root causes of health disparities, such as poverty, racism, and unequal access to resources. It necessitates investment in community-led initiatives and organizations that are dedicated to promoting health equity and addressing the social determinants of health that disproportionately affect Black communities. Achieving health equity in Black communities requires a holistic approach that recognizes the interconnectedness of social, economic, and environmental factors on health outcomes and commits to dismantling the barriers that hinder access to quality care and wellness opportunities. It is a call to confront and dismantle systemic racism in healthcare systems and beyond and to ensure that every individual, regardless of race or socioeconomic status, can live a healthy and thriving life.

At Orapin, we believe those who are working for the greater good should be known, supported, and celebrated. We help purpose-driven organizations generate consistent media coverage and thought leadership opportunities to increase awareness, influence, and impact. If you would like to be featured in INSPIRED IMPACT™, reach out to hello@orapin.co.