Community Outreach

Stroke community outreach and education is a critical component of our stroke center. Our focus is providing stroke education and promoting stroke awareness to patients and their families, health care professionals, the Houston community at large, disease support groups, churches and civic organizations. We want every Houstonian to know the signs of stroke, the importance of calling 911 for suspected stroke (Time is Brain!), their stroke risk and how to reduce that risk.

Embracing Community Engagement: Promoting Brain Health

At the UTHealth Houston Institute for Stroke and Cerebrovascular Diseases, we believe in the power of community engagement and are committed to spreading awareness about brain health. Our team has been actively visiting local area YMCAs to share valuable insights on healthy aging, memory preservation, and other various brain health topics. Through these educational sessions, we aim to empower individuals to take charge of their brain health and participate in groundbreaking research studies. Join us in this exciting journey as we venture into the heart of our community to create a brighter and healthier future for all.

Our Mission

At the core of our outreach efforts lies a simple yet profound mission: to make a tangible difference in the lives of individuals and families by promoting brain health. Through our engaging presentations and interactive discussions, we strive to equip community members with the knowledge and tools they need to maintain optimal brain function and overall well-being.

Why YMCA?

We have chosen local YMCAs as our partner venues because of their unwavering commitment to community welfare and overall health promotion. The YMCA's inclusive and welcoming environment aligns perfectly with our vision of reaching out to diverse audiences and fostering a sense of togetherness in our mission to enhance brain health. 

Our visits to local YMCAs not only provide a platform for knowledge sharing but also foster meaningful connections within the community. We actively engage with attendees, addressing their queries, and creating an open dialogue about brain health. By building these connections, we establish a support network that encourages and empowers individuals to embark on their brain health journey.

Brain Health Topics

Our team of experts delivers captivating sessions on a range of brain health topics, each designed to address the unique needs and concerns of our community members. From practical tips for healthy aging to effective memory-enhancement techniques, we cover a variety of subjects that empower attendees to make positive lifestyle changes.

Engaging Community Participation

We firmly believe that active community participation is key to advancing brain health research. During our visits, we encourage YMCA members to take part in our groundbreaking research studies. By becoming research participants, community members contribute to the advancement of scientific knowledge and, ultimately, the development of innovative treatments and prevention strategies.

Join Us

We extend a warm invitation to all YMCA members to join us in our mission to promote brain health. Together, we can create a community that values brain health and embraces the importance of early intervention and preventive measures.

We are committed to making a positive impact on brain health in our community, one visit at a time. Together, let's create a healthier and more vibrant future for our community and generations to come.

Book Us To Speak At Your Location!

We are eager to connect with various community organizations and groups to extend our outreach efforts. Some of the organizations we can speak at include, but are not limited to:

• Community Centers: Engaging with community centers allows us to reach a diverse audience and cater to the specific health concerns of the local community.
• Senior Centers: We specialize in addressing the unique brain health needs of seniors, promoting cognitive well-being and overall quality of life.
• Libraries: By conducting informative sessions at libraries, we foster a culture of continuous learning and empower individuals with valuable brain health knowledge.
• Schools and Colleges: Nurturing the minds of the younger generation is vital for a healthier future. We are eager to share insights on brain health with students and educators alike.
• Workplace Wellness Programs: Enhancing brain health in the workplace benefits both employees and employers. Our tailored sessions provide practical strategies for cognitive well-being in professional settings.
• Non-Profit Organizations: Collaborating with like-minded non-profit organizations allows us to create a united front in advocating for brain health awareness.
• Churches and Places of Worship: At the Stroke Institute we recognize that places of worship hold a special place in the hearts of communities. We are passionate about reaching out to churches as an avenue to promote brain health and holistic well-being among congregations. 

Contact Us

If you represent a community organization interested in hosting a brain health session, please reach out to Deondra Pattum. Together, we can plan an engaging and informative event that will leave a lasting impact on the well-being of your community members.

Girl Scout Stomp Out Stroke Program

Calling All Girl Scouts

Girl Scouts get SMART with the Stomp Out Stroke Patch! This program is working to inspire a new generation of young women who are strong in both brain and body. We want young women to be owners of their own brain health and become health leaders of tomorrow. Together with the Girl Scouts of San Jacinto Council, we have developed this Girl Scout patch initiative to encourage young girls to learn about stroke, brain health and promote healthy brain behaviors.

Girl Scouts will complete 3 hours of stroke and brain health education including learning about stroke, brain anatomy, brain function, brain health and promoting healthy behaviors. Through this knowledge, we will increase stroke awareness in the community and empower young women to share this knowledge with their friends and family to increase stroke awareness and promote brain healthy behaviors. While the Girl Scouts are having fun with these activities, accompanying adults will be able to learn about stroke, brain health and receive free health screenings. Date and curriculum will be provided at a later date.

Girl Scouts will complete 3 hours of stroke and brain health education. Including 5 required stations and choosing 4 of 9 optional stations to attend to earn the Stomp Out Stroke patch.

Optional Stations

• Concussions
• Heart/ A-Fib /CAD Station
• Brain and Drugs
• Tobacco Prevention
• Helmet Safety
• Fitness Activity
• Hula Dancing Fitness
• The Health Museum Sheep Brain Dissection

All Girl Scout Troops Will Enjoy:

• Free kids tote bag with goodies
• Free brain health educational materials
• Earn a Stomp Out Stroke patch

At the end of the program, you will receive your Stomp Out Stroke patch. All Girl Scout Troops are invited to stay after their program to enjoy family friendly performances, activities, games, music and giveaways!

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