Category : Community

Working in journalism and nonprofit communications, I’ve spent my career asking individuals to share their personal stories. While I’ve tried to approach these conversations with respect and care, I’ve only recently begun to fully appreciate the relationship building that’s required to honor their voice.

It’s New Year’s resolution time, when we think about eating healthier, exercising more, being a bit kinder or less stressed, and generally looking at self-improvement. And yet, a voice keeps saying, “Take a skip day from healthy eating. You don’t have time for the gym today.” What you may not realize is that voice is often coming from your neighborhood, streets, and community.

As I embark on the second cohort of Mid-Iowa Health Foundation’s HealthConnect Fellowship, I reflect back on moments in my career journey that have been pivotal for me. Moments that have given me the courage to do new things, courage to continue forward when challenges arise, and courage to take a new direction. Here are three of my most pivotal moments.

Remarks shared by Fellow Andrea Dencklau at the HealthConnect Fellowship Celebration on November 18, 2019. Andrea shares what the fellowship experience has meant to her and the hope it brings that we can address critical issues in our community.

Eighteen fellows have joined Mid-Iowa Health Foundation’s HealthConnect Fellowship for a second 18-month phase focused on building a network of advocates to lead system changes that improve children’s well-being in central Iowa.

Dawn Martinez Oropeza shares her journey as part of the first cohort of fellows. Her project focused on advocating for more inclusive policies and practices in school districts to address the mental health needs of Latino students.