Helpful Interventions — Gulf Coast African American Family Support Conference

Statewide Need
The disparity in access to care and services among the African American population with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) is significant. Sensitive educational and supportive care systems are needed to lessen the disparity in access to care and services. The Texas Council for Developmental Disabilities provided funds to establish an annual conference in Houston known as the Gulf Coast African American Family Support Conference (GCAAFSC), a replication of the Central Texas African American Family Support Conference (CTAAFSC), to provide relevant health and mental health information to the African American community in a culturally appropriate forum.

Project Goal
Strengthen family and individual awareness of available health care services through culturally sensitive education, supports and partnerships to help reduce stigma and eliminate health disparities.

Project Summary
Helpful Interventions proposed to lead the annual GCAAFSC and ensure conference goals and outcomes were met through diverse partnerships invested in addressing issues impacting the African American community. The overall goal was to strengthen and provide information to African American individuals and families impacted by disparities. GCAAFSC was intended promote ongoing education and partnerships among individuals, families and health and social service providers.

Another expected outcome was increased awareness of GCAAFSC and IDD-related issues in the community. Strategic outreach was to include distributing information and materials to faith-based communities, schools and other public and private sector organizations.

The fourth conference, titled “All of Me Matters!”, was held in August 2015. It offered educational segments, free health screenings, an exhibit center and an awards luncheon. The conference featured gospel artist, TV personality and pastor, Ms. Kim Burrell, as the keynote speaker. Ms. Burrell shared her personal story about overcoming emotional struggles, confronting significant health challenges, and fighting back to find laughter and happiness.