minorityhealth

Highlighting real conversation during National Minority Health Month

Mon, 04 May 2026 23:36:07 GMT

JACKSON, Miss. (WLBT) - The Jackson State University School of Social Work hosted a health and wellness fair that brought resources directly to students.

Delicia Young said she learned about stroke risks at the event.

“I learned about strokes being more prominent in women, especially Black women, versus other ethnicities and other genders. And so that was something that will make me keep a watch on,” Young said.

Students said having resources on campus makes a difference.

“A lot of times we don’t prioritize our health. So I feel like having this event and letting us know what we can go to like those organizations and those companies and businesses that are there to help us with our health and with our wellness is very educational,” Kayla Sanders said.

Epidemiologist Warren Jones said holding health events at convenient places are key.

“A lot of men seem to be more comfortable opening up to their barbers. So, it’s not just a haircut that they’re getting, but it’s almost like a counseling session sometimes,” Jones said.

Mississippi is facing a maternal and infant mortality crisis. The Institute for the Advancement of Minority Health runs the “baby depot,” providing free diapers and food to help mothers through the first year.

Khaylah Scott with Mississippi Health Advocacy Program said these disparities are not accidents and the solution starts with an informed community.

“I think the needle is moved more in these casual settings, especially in barbershops or places where communities convene, because that’s where real talk happens. And you never know how effective that can be,” Scott said.

Scott said young Mississippians belong in the health advocacy space and their voices matter.

“You can advocate for others as long as you’re demanding more and better for people around you and yourself,” Scott said.

The goal is to keep the conversation going beyond April and National Minority Health Month.

Healthy Moms, Healthy Futures event brings education to metro area moms

Tue, 21 Apr 2026 17:38:40 GMT

JACKSON, Miss. (WLBT) - For Black Maternal Health Week, metro area moms received the tools and resources they need for better pregnancy and mental health.

Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority’s Rho Lambda Omega chapter and the Institute for the Advancement of Minority Health hosted Healthy Moms, Healthy Futures.

Organizers focused on baby CPR, maternal health, mental health, SIDS education, and more, providing education for new moms and moms-to-be.

“This is important to make sure that we come out in the community to educate moms about how to have healthy pregnancies. If they have questions about what is going on during their pregnancy, they have someone to talk to and know how to advocate for themselves,” Latasha Rice, program manager for maternal and child health with the Institute for the Advancement of Minority Health, said.

Rice said she hopes mothers utilize and understand the information they are given to help promote better health in Mississippi.

Community Resource Fair

Wed, 04 Mar 2026 18:35:51 GMT

JACKSON, Miss. (WJTV) – A Community Resource Fair was held at College Hill MB Church in Jackson.

Impact in Action: Expanding Access to HIV Education and Screening Across Mississippi

Mon, 23 Feb 2026 18:38:42 GMT

Institute Program Manager Latasha Rice shares information with Judge Yemi King during the Community Resource Fair on Saturday, February 21 at College Hill Church.

At the Institute for the Advancement of Minority Health (IAMH), our commitment to health equity means showing up—wherever our communities need us most.

Today was a powerful reminder of that mission in action. With teams deployed simultaneously in West Jackson and communities throughout the Mississippi Delta, it was truly all hands on deck. IAMH staff worked side-by-side with local partners and residents to expand access to critical HIV screenings, distribute educational resources, and provide trusted health information directly to the community.

These outreach efforts are more than events—they are lifelines.

By bringing HIV testing and education directly into neighborhoods, IAMH helps remove barriers such as transportation, stigma, and lack of access to reliable information. Each conversation held, each screening provided, and each resource distributed represents an opportunity to empower individuals with knowledge and connect them to care.

Early detection saves lives. Education strengthens communities. Access creates equity.

Through initiatives like these, IAMH continues to build trust and ensure that underserved populations—especially in historically marginalized regions like West Jackson and the Mississippi Delta—have the tools and support needed to make informed health decisions.

This work reflects IAMH’s ongoing commitment to improving health outcomes, advancing prevention efforts, and standing alongside the communities we serve.

Together, we are creating healthier futures—one connection, one conversation, and one life at a time.

Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. Supports Mississippi Families Through Baby Depot Donation

Fri, 30 Jan 2026 16:14:18 GMT

The Institute for the Advancement of Minority Health (IAMH) is proud to recognize Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. for its generous support of Mississippi families through a significant contribution to IAMH’s Baby Depot program.

During the 2026 Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service, IAMH received more than 5,000 essential items, including diapers, wipes, and baby food, from Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.’s Beta Delta Omega Chapter and Gamma Rho Chapter. This donation directly supports infants and toddlers across Mississippi who face diaper insecurity—a challenge that forces many families to choose between purchasing diapers and paying for basic necessities such as rent and utilities.

Diaper insecurity is more than a supply issue; it is a public health concern that disproportionately affects low-income families and those eligible for Medicaid. Access to clean diapers is essential for infant health, reducing the risk of infections, supporting early childhood development, and easing financial strain on caregivers.

The Baby Depot program provides critical relief to families by supplying essential items while connecting parents and caregivers to health education and supportive resources. Contributions like this one help strengthen community well-being and improve outcomes for Mississippi’s youngest residents.

Founded in 2019, IAMH works to reduce health disparities among underserved populations in Mississippi through collaborative partnerships, community-driven initiatives, and evidence-based public health interventions. The support from Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. reflects a shared commitment to service, equity, and the health of families statewide.

IAMH extends sincere gratitude to Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. for embodying a legacy of service and for making a meaningful difference in the lives of Mississippi families.

Warren Jones Highlights the Tell Ten Challenge on WLBT to Address Men’s Health Outcomes

Fri, 30 Jan 2026 15:48:55 GMT

Warren Jones discussed the Tell Ten Challenge during an interview with WLBT. The challenge is inspired by statistics on men's health. A CDC report shows that men have worse outcomes than women.

Warren Jones Featured in WJTV Interview as Black Men’s Health Equity Conference Returns to Tougaloo College

Mon, 17 Nov 2025 15:40:41 GMT

Warren Jones was recently interviewed by WJTV. This year’s event placed a strong focus on the mental and physical health challenges disproportionately affecting African American men in Mississippi. The conference brought together community leaders, health experts, and advocates to address these issues and promote actionable solutions for improving overall wellness and equity.

Local sorority chapter hosts suitcase drive for unhoused community

Mon, 27 Oct 2025 14:37:40 GMT

JACKSON, Miss. (WLBT) - A local sorority chapter is working to restore a sense of humanity in the community - one suitcase at a time.

The Institute for the Advancement of Minority Health and the Ebony Pearls Foundation collaborated with the Rho Lambda Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. to host a suitcase drive for the unhoused community in the area.

“The purpose of it is we want to restore dignity to those who are unhoused or unstably housed when carrying their belongings because we know, a lot of the time, the shelters are only really for night-time and they’re forced to leave and they have to take their belongings around either in garbage bags or plastic bags,” Dawn Magee, chapter president, said.

Cars lined up outside The Ivy Pointe in Jackson on Sunday afternoon to donate both new and gently used suitcases to aid those experiencing homelessness.

It was the first year for this drive, and the chapter wants to address a side of homelessness that many people may not think about.

“No one wants to carry their belongings in a garbage bag around. You’re already dealing with the fact that you’re unhoused. Then, the way that you have to carry your possessions, all of us have a certain feeling towards the things that we own,” Magee added. “So, we want to make sure that they can carry around their belongings in a wheeled suitcase or duffel bag.”

The suitcases will be donated to Shower Power next month.

Magee also has a message for people who are unsure about donating.

“It can be any of us at any day. Like they say, we’re all one paycheck away sometimes from being unhoused,” explained Magee. “So, I would encourage them to look at how you would feel if you were in their shoes, unhoused, trying to take your belongings from place to place.”

If you didn’t have a chance to donate today, you still have until Nov. 20 to give back.

Read more

Institute for the Advancement of Minority Health Supports World Homeless Day to Promote Health and Hope in Jackson

Sat, 11 Oct 2025 16:19:07 GMT

Empowering Jackson’s homeless community with compassion, care, and access to vital health resources.

The Institute for the Advancement of Minority Health proudly participated in World Homeless Day 2025 on October 10, 2025, at The Stewpot’s Opportunity Center in Jackson, MS. The event brought together community partners to provide essential health resources, food, music, and support services for individuals experiencing homelessness. Through outreach and education, the Institute shared vital information on chronic disease prevention, infectious disease awareness, and access to community health programs, reinforcing its mission to advance health equity for all. Together, we celebrated resilience and community while working toward a healthier, stronger Jackson.

Warren Jones Champions Men’s Health at Mississippi State Capitol

Wed, 03 Sep 2025 17:51:35 GMT

Our epidemiologist, Warren Jones, continues to make us proud! He was a featured speaker at the Prostate Cancer Awareness Month press conference at the Mississippi State Capitol. He shared insights on the importance of knowing your family history and getting screened early. Prostate cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death among men, and Black men are more than twice as likely to die from it compared to their white counterparts. Men, don’t wait! Go get checked. Talk with your doctor about prostate cancer screening today!

Jackson recognizes September as Prostate Cancer Awareness Month

Wed, 03 Sep 2025 14:19:01 GMT

JACKSON, Miss. ( WJTV ) – Jackson Mayor John Horhn declared September 2025 as Prostate Cancer Awareness Month.

According to health officials, prostate cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death among men in the United States, with African American men disproportionately affected. This month, the city will join local organizations and health partners in raising awareness about the importance of early detection, regular screenings and prostate health education.

“The health of our community is a top priority. By coming together to raise awareness about prostate cancer, we can save lives through education, early detection, and support. Jackson is ready to lead by example this September,” Horhn said.

Some community events have been planned throughout September:

September 25 at 6:00 p.m. – Community Awareness Forum at MS Baptist Hospital, Belhaven Building, 1200 N. State Street, Room 220
September 28 – Prostate Cancer Sunday, acknowledged during morning worship services in churches across Jackson, encouraging male representatives to speak about early PSA screening

Residents are encouraged to wear blue during the month to show solidarity and support for men’s health.

Institute's Black Men’s Health Equity Conference brings community together at Tougaloo College

Thu, 28 Aug 2025 15:30:20 GMT

The third annual conference at Tougaloo College focused on breaking down barriers to care with workshops, free screenings, and open conversations about health equity for Black men.

The Institute for the Advancement of Minority Health hosted its third annual Black Men’s Health Equity Conference this weekend at Tougaloo College, drawing community members, faith leaders, and policymakers to address the well-being of Black men across Mississippi.

The event, held at the Bennie G. Thompson Academic and Civil Rights Research Center, featured conversations on mental health, chronic disease prevention, financial literacy, environmental justice, and even climate change.

“It’s all about preventative health for Black men across the state of Mississippi,” said Warren Jones, an epidemiologist with the Institute. “This conference is important to acknowledge the disparities and come up with strategies to help men live healthier lives.”

In addition to workshops and networking opportunities, free health screenings were offered to support early detection and prevention.

Mississippi Public Service Commissioner DeKeither Stamps took part, encouraging others to do the same.

“I got all my tests done. It’s critically important that you know your numbers and how to keep them low,” Stamps said. “If you have any negatives, there are professionals here to guide you.”

Organizers say the conference provides a safe space for men to ask questions and learn directly from health experts.

“There are no dumb questions,” said Mac Epps, CEO of the Epps Institute of Health and Family Community Living. “Events like these give you information you can’t always find online.”

Leaders hope the annual event will continue breaking down barriers to care and encourage men to take charge of their health.

They also stress the importance of regular screenings and staying connected with local resources.

Institute for the Advancement of Minority Health hosts Black Men’s Health Equity Conferenc

Wed, 27 Aug 2025 14:55:59 GMT

JACKSON, Miss. (WLBT) - The annual Black Men’s Health Equity Conference returned to Tougaloo College on August 23.

The mission of the Black Men’s Health Equity Conference, hosted by the Institute for the Advancement of Minority Health, is to take a deep dive into both the mental and physical health challenges faced by African American men across Mississippi.

“As a historically Black college, what we’re trying to do is create a a unit of healthy Mississippians to help with the economy as well as make sure that we’re creating a healthy, sound family unit. The Black man is often the backbone of the family unit,” said Sandra Melvin, founder and CEO of the Institute of the Advancement of Minority Health.

A primary focus of the conference was prioritizing mental health in the Black community.

According to staff members with the Institute for the Advancement of Minority Health, they are aiming to create and promote healthy lifestyles for those attending the historically Black college.

This year’s conference featured Ronald Martin, an award-winning journalist, as its keynote speaker.

“One of the biggest issues that we deal with recently that’s impacting young Black men is suicide rates. For the longest time, African Americans were far behind white Americans when it comes to suicide rates,” Martin explained. ”Now we’re seeing a tremendous increase. Mental health is a major issue and that’s often underreported. It’s often overlooked.”

Martin said he wants those who attended the conference to spread the word about what they learned so that real change can begin.

“It’s one thing to get the information and say, ‘Hey, I was there and there were some great panel discussions,’” Martin said. “But what do you do now with it? The challenge to leadership of this conference is to say, ‘OK, how do we assess over the next 364 days?’ When you come back next year and we’ll be able to say, ‘Hey, this is some of the people we impacted.’ The focus is not on the people in the room; the focus is how do you invite the people who are not here.”

For more information on African American health and ways to stay healthy, you can check out the Institute for the Advancement of Minority Health’s website.

Conference targets health equity for Black men in Mississippi

Wed, 27 Aug 2025 14:49:31 GMT

JACKSON, Miss. ( WJTV ) – Black men face some of the highest rates of chronic disease, as well as some of the lowest access to care.

The annual Black Men’s Health Equity Conference was held on Saturday at Tougaloo College in Jackson. It was hosted by the Institute for the Advancement of Minority Health. The conference focused on closing the health gap affecting Black men in Mississippi and beyond.

“Black men are three or four more times more likely than other groups to pass away from heart disease, diabetes, and kidney disease, as well. So, these different chronic illnesses, the disparity rates are so wide. And these particular communities have also a low rate of screening and testing. So, it’s very important for us to educate and provide interventions to some of these chronic illnesses, as well,” said Warren Jones, Epidemiologist with the Institute for the Advancement of Minority Health.

Organizers said the conference is designed to raise awareness, offer education and connect people to critical resources, especially where access to care is limited.

“We want to provide free resources from different nonprofits. Particularly right now, because we as we see that Medicaid and Medicare is scarce in our marginalized community and minority communities, right now. So, we’re being very intentional with this conference to bring in people to give us the best education that we can,” said Markyel Pittman, program manager for the Institute for the Advancement of Minority Health.

This year’s keynote speaker was journalist Roland Martin, who was chosen for his national leadership on racial and health equity issues. The free event featured screenings and discussions to improve Black men’s health.

Baby and Beyond: A Mommy-to-Be Resource Fair Featured on WJTV

Thu, 14 Aug 2025 15:12:00 GMT

LaTasha Rice , Program Manager , recently appeared on WJTV to spotlight the upcoming Baby and Beyond: A Mommy-to-Be Resource Fair. Expecting mothers and families can look forward to a day filled with free lunch, exciting giveaways, yoga demonstrations, and valuable local resources. With August marking National Breastfeeding Month, the fair will feature special information and support for breastfeeding moms. Don’t miss this chance to connect, learn, and celebrate motherhood in a warm and welcoming community.

Back-to-School Supply Drive

IAMH@advancingminorityhealth.org (Minority Health) — Tue, 22 Jul 2025 15:40:42 GMT

Back-to-School Supply Drive

Institute for the Advancement of Minority Health and Word and Worship Church have partnered to help area children get ready for school!

Teen Health Summit held at Tougaloo College

Tue, 10 Dec 2024 03:14:07 GMT

Watch now

Metro teens attend 'Teen Health Summit

Mon, 09 Dec 2024 16:30:20 GMT

The Institute appreciates WAPT-TV for providing coverage of the Inaugural Teen Summit.

The Men's Health Equity Program hosted a tobacco and vaping prevention event

Thu, 07 Nov 2024 18:42:53 GMT

Epidemiologist Warren Jones gave a brief presentation on the health risks of vaping and tobacco to the 7th and 8th grade students.

On October 30th 2024 the Men's Health Equity Program Hosted its Vaping and Tobacco prevention event at West Bolivar Middle School. Epidemiologist Warren Jones briefly presented on the health risk of vaping and tobacco with the 7th and 8th grade students. The students also participated by presenting health facts to their peers and instructors. The event was concluded with a brief step show from the Rho Epsilon Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity.

IAMH Men's Health Program Hosted a Youth Health Rally at Mcevans High School in Shaw, MS

Mon, 07 Oct 2024 20:31:16 GMT

IAMH Men's Health Program Hosted a Youth Health Rally at Mcevans High School in Shaw, MS on September 27th for tobacco and vaping prevention. Student's were educated on the dangers of smoking tobacco and using vaping devices. Students were given a brief presentation about smoking and preventive health by IAMH Epidemiologist Warren Jones and Mcevans High School students.

Rural Maternity and Obstetrics Management Strategies (RMOMS) program

Wed, 02 Oct 2024 20:36:24 GMT

Our program specialist Mrs. Joyce Roundtree-McCoy did an awesome job spreading the word about the Rural Maternity and Obstetrics Management Strategies (RMOMS) program. For more information watch the interview or email jrmccoy@advancingminorityhealth.org .

The full video story can be viewed here .

Tobacco Symposium

Fri, 27 Sep 2024 19:25:52 GMT

The Institute for the Advancement of Minority Health, We Collab, and Healthy Places By Design recently hosted a Tobacco Symposium on September 19, 2024. Symposium participants discussed strategies and solutions to reduce tobacco and vape usage in our state.

Ethan started smoking menthol cigarettes because he wanted to be "cool." He wanted to be like the people he saw in movies and commercials. In this video, he describes how smoking affected his health.

Wed, 28 Aug 2024 15:54:06 GMT

Ethan started smoking menthol cigarettes because he wanted to be "cool." He wanted to be like the people he saw in movies and commercials. In this video, he describes how smoking affected his health and shares that he had two smoking-related strokes. This powerful story illustrates why quitting is one of the best decisions you can make for your health.

Institute for the Advancement of Minority Health #IAMH supplied 200 students with COVID-19 PPE Kit

Sat, 17 Aug 2024 00:14:06 GMT

Hinds Community College - Utica

Institute for the Advancement of Minority Health #IAMH, took proactive steps by providing 200 students with essential COVID-19 PPE Kits at Hinds Community College in Utica. In the video features is Mr. Donny Epting, Dean of Students.