Grameen VidaSana Pilot II
As we continue to prepare for the launch of our primary care and health promotion program - Grameen VidaSana - we have a growing recognition of the challenges immigrant women face in their quest for health. To ensure that our program will meet the real-life health needs of our members as they navigate their busy lives, we have conducted two series of pilots to test both the content and logistical efficacy of our program design.
Our second Grameen VidaSana pilot, conducted by Dr. Diana Ramírez, concluded on Thursday, July 17th. The pilot consisted of three interactive and engaging workshops that offered specific and concrete methods for stress management and physical exercise. The goal of this pilot was to both introduce Grameen VidaSana to potential members, and to provide a “sneak peek” opportunity for them to “get the conversation going.” Despite the small number of meetings, we were able to learn a lot from the dynamics of this particular group. As we slowly approach the inauguration of GVS, we continue to evaluate the program and contemplate the possibilities that the future holds.
What are the members saying about us?
“I am glad to know that I will have access to a doctor who will give me the attention that I need. It assures me that I will receive the proper care.” – Fatima (GVS Pilot II Participant)
Click here to read more about GVS.
GPC Staff and Board Chair Make a Trip to Bangladesh
 Last June, GPC’s Board Chair, Allison Schwartz, VP of Strategy, Brooke Beardslee and Director of Operations, Noor Shams, traveled to Bangladesh to attend the Yunus Center Social Business Day, tour Grameen projects and meet with Professor Muhammad Yunus.
Bangladesh is the world’s eighth-most populous country, with over 160 million people, and
among the most densely populated countries. Geographically the country is dominated by
the fertile Bengal Delta, the world’s largest, which makes it highly vulnerable to mal-effects
of sea-level change.
Our trip took us from urban Grameen projects such as the Grameen Caledonian College of Nursing, Grameen Shikkha’s non-formal education program for slum children, to the monsoon-soaked village of Golmari that benefits from Grameen Veolia Water’s clean water distribution.
Most of the projects we visited had a social business component. A social business is one where investors fund a socially-benefitting project that has an income generating aspect to it. With the income that is generated, the investor is eventually paid back the sum that was invested, and not a bit more. The social business motto “No Loss, No Dividends” aptly describes the concept.
Our trip ended with a wonderful meeting with Professor Yunus whom we updated about the progress of GPC. He was forthcoming with insightful ideas and inspiration to keep us on track as we prepare to launch.
Click here to see some photos from our trip.
A Successful Young Professionals Event
On June 24th, Grameen PrimaCare hosted our first Young Professionals event in New York City. Our group, otherwise known as " GPC YoPro", is made up of young professionals between the ages of 21 and early 40's who are passionate about health access and health equity for all people. GPC YoPro provides networking opportunities, access to our staff and other experts in such fields as public health, social justice and women's rights, unique volunteer experiences and invitations to events. We are hosting our next event on Monday, September 29th. Please contact us if you would like to join!
Click here to see more photos.
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