MEN'S HEALTH

The Men’s Health Program is dedicated to addressing the unique health challenges faced by minority men by promoting awareness, prevention, and access to care.

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About us

HEALTH, STRENGTH & LEGACY:  UPLIFTING MEN OF COLOR

The Institute for the Advancement of Minority Health’s Men’s Health Program addresses the unique health challenges and disparities affecting men of color, specifically African American men. This program promotes health equity, improves access to care, and supports healthy behaviors through targeted outreach, education, and community-based interventions.

PURPOSE

The program aims to reduce health disparities among minority men by increasing awareness, facilitating early detection of chronic diseases, and encouraging preventive care. Through the development of culturally responsive programming and safe spaces for discussion, the Men’s Health Program empowers men in Mississippi to take control of their health and improve their health outcomes.

KEY ACTIVITIES

  • Community Engagement

    The program maintains a consistent presence in the community through recurring outreach events: 


    Billy Brumfield Men’s Shelter Initiative: 

    The Men’s Health program serves the unhoused at the Billy Brumfield Men’s Shelter.  Every third Thursday at 5:30 p.m., Institute staff and various partners provide health education, screenings, and resources tailored to meet the needs of the unhoused population in the City of Jackson (MS).


    Black Men’s Health Equity Council Task Force Meetings: 

    The Black Men's Health Equity Council is dedicated to advancing health equity for Black men in Mississippi. The council aims to revolutionize the well-being of Black males by enhancing the well-being of Black men holistically. The council focuses on imparting knowledge, raising awareness, delivering effective programs, and advocating for transformative policies.  This stakeholder group meets every fourth Thursday at 5 p.m., at Tougaloo College (Tougaloo, MS).


    Choppin’ It Up Barbershop Series: 

    The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says Black men tend to have less frequent contact with physicians and other health professionals than their white counterparts. The Choppin’ It Up Barbershop Series is an innovative, hands-on way to provide wellness services in a comfortable environment. Culturally, the barbershop is a safe space for Black men. Through this series, Black men with access to medical personnel, basic health screenings, and wellness information that will reduce and prevent chronic illnesses. The series is implemented in Hinds County.


    Black Men's Health Equity Conference: 

    The Black Men’s Health Equity Conference is a one-day event dedicated to addressing health issues directly impacting Black men in Mississippi. Since its inception in 2023, the conference has featured renowned speakers such as Charles Taylor, Executive Director of the NAACP-MS; New York City Councilman and Exonerated Five member Yusef Salaam; and award-winning journalist Roland Martin. The conference is offered at no cost to ensure that critical health information remains accessible to all Black men seeking to improve their health outcomes.  For more information or to register for the conference, click this link. 


    IAHM Teen Summit:

    The Teen Health Summit allows Metro Area Teens to discuss pertinent issues and develop solutions for change.  Sponsored by the Men’s Program, the summit features breakout sessions focusing on HIV/AIDS, emotional wellness, bullying, and nutrition.  

  • Health Screenings and Education

    The program provides essential health screenings (e.g., blood pressure, diabetes, and cholesterol checks) along with health literacy education to encourage early detection and informed decision-making.  Health campaigns such as Brother, Go Get Checked (prostate cancer), chronic disease awareness (high blood pressure, kidney disease, and diabetes), and emotional wellness assist in increasing positive health outcomes for Black men in Mississippi.


  • Coalition Building and Advocacy

    Through partnerships with local organizations, non-profits, churches, shelters, and Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), the program fosters cross-sector collaboration to advocate for systemic change and improved health outcomes. 


GOALS

Increase the rate of preventive health screenings among minority men.

Build trust and engagement within underserved male populations.

Strengthen community partnerships to support long-term health initiatives.

Advocate for policies and programs that promote health equity for men of color.

ADVANCING HEALTH EQUITY

Browse the photo gallery to relive the inspiring moments, celebrate the connections made, and see the incredible impact of coming together for better health.

FUNDING SOURCES

  • Robert Wood Johnson Foundation
  • Higher Purpose, Inc.
  • MS Department of Health

TARGET AUDIENCE

The Men’s Health program services African American men and other men of color. Many, but not all, are low-resourced, uninsured/underinsured. Key populations include residents of shelters, barbershop patrons, college students, and men engaged through faith-based and community networks.