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The Greater Illinois Chapter’s efforts at outreach to the Latino community are strong and growing. To meet the growing needs of this population, we have implemented several programs that provide information and support to persons with Alzheimer’s disease and their caregivers.
Promotores Program
Through the leadership of Constantina Mizis, our manager of multicultural outreach, our chapter has trained several individuals who serve as community health promoters (promotores). These promotores work to bring Alzheimer’s disease education and awareness to the Pilsen and Little Village neighborhoods of Chicago. We estimate that 1,200 individuals have already been helped through the presentations, health fairs and educational materials, which are provided at health clinics, community agencies, churches and the Mexican Consulate of Chicago.
Youth Health Promoter Program
The chapter partnered with Cristo Rey High School and the Mexican Consulate of Chicago to create a Youth Health Promoter program that began in June 2007. These Youth Health Promoters are given Alzheimer’s-specific training, tools and information that they offer to families in their communities. These young people also provide a multigenerational component to our efforts and expand awareness within Latino families. Promoters are trained at the Mexican Consulate.
Presentations & Seminars
The chapter makes frequent presentations on Alzheimer’s disease to the Latino community. Between July 2006 and May 2007, we worked with over 90 professional organizations, trainers, support staff and volunteers from adult day facilities, medical centers, community clinics and residential care settings.
Partnership with the Mexican Consulate of Chicago and the Alzheimer’s Federation of Mexico
Next year we will be kicking off a major partnership with the Alzheimer’s Federation of Mexico. The program is modeled on one currently underway in our Los Angeles chapter. The program provides support and information to long-distance caregivers who reside in the U.S. and have loved ones in Mexico with Alzheimer’s disease. We are hopeful that the Mexican Consulate of Chicago will join this effort in the coming year.
