BLKHLTH CARES

Empowering a new generation of health equity leaders

A fellowship that equips students on health career paths with the advocacy skills, mentorship, and real-world engagement needed to drive racial health equity in their communities.

At BLKHLTH, we recognize the growing desire among future health professionals to engage in local health equity advocacy.

In response, we are proud to introduce the BLKHLTH Community Advocacy for Racial Equity School (CARES), our transformative racial health equity fellowship program.

Our mission is clear: to equip undergraduate and graduate students on health career tracks with the knowledge, skills, and hands-on experiences essential to effectively advocate for racial health equity in their local communities.

We're not just shaping future health professionals; we're shaping a healthier, more equitable future for all.

Program Overview

The BLKHLTH CARES Fellowship is a hybrid program that blends virtual and in-person learning to equip students in health careers with tools to advance racial equity. Fellows engage in courses on antiracism, advocacy, and organizing, paired with mentorship and hands-on experiences that build confidence to drive systemic change.

Since its launch, CARES has trained cohorts in Atlanta and Washington, D.C., with curriculum contextualized to each city’s history, culture, and needs. This place-based approach grounds fellows in the realities of their communities while equipping them with strategies that resonate nationally.

Fellowship Benefits

What You’ll Walk Away With

  • 🧠 Immersive Learning

    Hands-on projects designed to build your real-world knowledge and confidence.

  • 🤝🏾 Mentorship & Exposure

    Connect with leading racial health equity advocates and professionals in your city.

  • 🌍 Community Engagement

    Collaborate with local health organizations and coalitions making change on the ground.

  • 📣 Advocacy Skill-Building

    Get tools, training, and support to strengthen your voice and impact.

  • 💰 Paid Participation

    Receive a stipend for your time and contributions to the program.

BLKHLTH CARES Steering Committee

This fellowship is shaped by a steering committee of trusted leaders in public health, racial justice, and community care.

  • Nathaniel Benjamin

  • Robyn N. Bussey

  • Marline D. Edmond

  • Opal Gay

  • Venice Haynes

  • Gabrielle Jones

  • Gera King

  • Monica Ponder

Have questions about BLKHLTH CARES?

Stay informed about upcoming cohorts and application dates by following us on social media, where you can join the conversation and be part of a community committed to advancing racial health equity.

Partners

BLKHLTH CARES is supported by the Georgia Health Initiative and the Communities in Action for Health Equity grant program, launched by the Pfizer Multicultural Health Equity Collective (The Collective) and Institute of Translational Equitable Medicine (ITEM).

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