BNA of Greater Washington DC of National Black Nurses Association (NBNA)
July 2024
BNA of Greater Washington DC
of National Black Nurses Association (NBNA)
National Black Nurses Association
Washington
,
DC
United States
Lilian Ward, RN - Co-Chair
Lois Bowman, RN Co-Chair
Members:
Deanna Given
Judith Jourdain-Earl, BSN
Pamela Hodge, RN
Dr. Sharon Lewis, RN
Madlyn Belcher, BSN, RN
Lois Bowman, RN Co-Chair
Members:
Deanna Given
Judith Jourdain-Earl, BSN
Pamela Hodge, RN
Dr. Sharon Lewis, RN
Madlyn Belcher, BSN, RN
It is with the utmost honor and profound pleasure that I extend this commendation to the Black Nurses Association of Greater Washington, D.C.A, Inc., acknowledging their distinguished efforts as the DAISY Team of the Year.
The BNA-GWDCA stands as an emblem of unwavering commitment to the cause of health equity, transcending conventional boundaries to serve families entrenched within historically underserved and medically neglected communities. With unparalleled dedication, the BNA has undertaken a multifaceted approach towards fostering health awareness, championing preventive measures, and advocating for early detection and treatment across the diverse spectrum of the black populace.
In a landscape marred by disproportionate health disparities, the BNA has emerged as a beacon of hope, addressing the pressing concerns surrounding prevalent illnesses such as cancer, heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and hypertension. Our initiatives extend beyond conventional healthcare paradigms, with boots firmly planted on the ground, offering sustenance to the unhoused and extending essential amenities such as clean blankets and dignified alternatives for personal belongings.
A testament to their holistic approach, the BNA has embraced the challenge of nurturing the future generation, adopting elementary schools within Washington D.C.'s most economically distressed communities. Tackling issues of food insecurity and menstrual hygiene with unparalleled grace, they have provided indispensable support to children grappling with the harsh realities of homelessness.
Recently, the BNA Social Community Committee, led by, coordinated and collaborated by our then vice president representing The Black Nurses Association of Greater Washington DC Area, Inc., delivered a generous donation to Hart Middle School. The donation included essential items aimed at addressing hygiene poverty and supporting the well-being of students in need. The items delivered were:
• 771 sanitary pads
• 90 pantiliners
• 75 single toothbrushes
• 40 tubes of toothpaste
• 32 travel-size toothpaste/toothbrush kits
• 6 travel-size bottles of mouthwash
• 99 bars of Dove Soap
• 6 bottles of Suave body wash
• 50 disposable wipes/washcloths
• 18 deodorants
• 120 Q-tips
This contribution is particularly significant as it addresses the challenges faced by low-income families in accessing essential non-food household items such as soap, toothpaste, and personal hygiene products. Studies have shown that in 2013, one in three low-income families struggled to afford these necessities. Without access to items like tampons and pads, individuals may resort to makeshift alternatives, increasing their risk of health complications.
Furthermore, the BNA's involvement with 7th graders at Hart Middle School extends beyond material donations. Through participation in a citywide health summit, BNA members helped adolescents gain crucial knowledge about healthcare practices. Topics covered included CPR, the basics of healthcare (ABC), blood pressure monitoring, the purpose of blood drawers, IV administration, and the importance of immunizations. Additionally, discussions on recognizing signs of domestic violence and child abuse were held, emphasizing the importance of reporting any concerning behavior or situations.
By providing both material support and educational resources, the BNA continues to make a meaningful impact on the lives of students and families in the Greater Washington DC Area, ensuring their health and well-being are prioritized.
Moreover, their unwavering commitment to community engagement is exemplified through over 30 meticulously orchestrated activities, offering invaluable health screenings and disseminating crucial information to empower individuals across all age groups.
Furthermore, our stewardship extends to the geriatric community, with a dedicated Wellness Center serving as a bastion of knowledge and support. Through bi-monthly sessions, we endeavor to educate and uplift senior citizens, empowering them to advocate for their well-being with newfound vigor and confidence.
At the helm of this remarkable organization stand two exemplary co-chairs embodying the essence of leadership and advocacy. Their tireless efforts have played an instrumental role in steering the BNA toward the forefront of healthcare advocacy, amplifying the voices of the marginalized and underserved.
It is imperative to acknowledge their pivotal role amidst the ongoing pandemic, as they collaborated seamlessly with local health authorities to spearhead COVID-19 screening initiatives and flu vaccine campaigns, ensuring the safety and well-being of the community at large.
Additionally, their recent contributions to the National Coalition for 100 Black Women and Hart Middle School underscore their unwavering commitment to humanitarian causes, leaving an indelible mark on those they serve.
In conclusion, the Black Nurses Association of Greater Washington, D.C.A, INC. epitomizes the very essence of compassionate care and unwavering dedication. Their indomitable spirit serves as an inspiration to us all, reaffirming the belief that through collective action and unwavering resolve, we can surmount even the most daunting of challenges.
The BNA-GWDCA stands as an emblem of unwavering commitment to the cause of health equity, transcending conventional boundaries to serve families entrenched within historically underserved and medically neglected communities. With unparalleled dedication, the BNA has undertaken a multifaceted approach towards fostering health awareness, championing preventive measures, and advocating for early detection and treatment across the diverse spectrum of the black populace.
In a landscape marred by disproportionate health disparities, the BNA has emerged as a beacon of hope, addressing the pressing concerns surrounding prevalent illnesses such as cancer, heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and hypertension. Our initiatives extend beyond conventional healthcare paradigms, with boots firmly planted on the ground, offering sustenance to the unhoused and extending essential amenities such as clean blankets and dignified alternatives for personal belongings.
A testament to their holistic approach, the BNA has embraced the challenge of nurturing the future generation, adopting elementary schools within Washington D.C.'s most economically distressed communities. Tackling issues of food insecurity and menstrual hygiene with unparalleled grace, they have provided indispensable support to children grappling with the harsh realities of homelessness.
Recently, the BNA Social Community Committee, led by, coordinated and collaborated by our then vice president representing The Black Nurses Association of Greater Washington DC Area, Inc., delivered a generous donation to Hart Middle School. The donation included essential items aimed at addressing hygiene poverty and supporting the well-being of students in need. The items delivered were:
• 771 sanitary pads
• 90 pantiliners
• 75 single toothbrushes
• 40 tubes of toothpaste
• 32 travel-size toothpaste/toothbrush kits
• 6 travel-size bottles of mouthwash
• 99 bars of Dove Soap
• 6 bottles of Suave body wash
• 50 disposable wipes/washcloths
• 18 deodorants
• 120 Q-tips
This contribution is particularly significant as it addresses the challenges faced by low-income families in accessing essential non-food household items such as soap, toothpaste, and personal hygiene products. Studies have shown that in 2013, one in three low-income families struggled to afford these necessities. Without access to items like tampons and pads, individuals may resort to makeshift alternatives, increasing their risk of health complications.
Furthermore, the BNA's involvement with 7th graders at Hart Middle School extends beyond material donations. Through participation in a citywide health summit, BNA members helped adolescents gain crucial knowledge about healthcare practices. Topics covered included CPR, the basics of healthcare (ABC), blood pressure monitoring, the purpose of blood drawers, IV administration, and the importance of immunizations. Additionally, discussions on recognizing signs of domestic violence and child abuse were held, emphasizing the importance of reporting any concerning behavior or situations.
By providing both material support and educational resources, the BNA continues to make a meaningful impact on the lives of students and families in the Greater Washington DC Area, ensuring their health and well-being are prioritized.
Moreover, their unwavering commitment to community engagement is exemplified through over 30 meticulously orchestrated activities, offering invaluable health screenings and disseminating crucial information to empower individuals across all age groups.
Furthermore, our stewardship extends to the geriatric community, with a dedicated Wellness Center serving as a bastion of knowledge and support. Through bi-monthly sessions, we endeavor to educate and uplift senior citizens, empowering them to advocate for their well-being with newfound vigor and confidence.
At the helm of this remarkable organization stand two exemplary co-chairs embodying the essence of leadership and advocacy. Their tireless efforts have played an instrumental role in steering the BNA toward the forefront of healthcare advocacy, amplifying the voices of the marginalized and underserved.
It is imperative to acknowledge their pivotal role amidst the ongoing pandemic, as they collaborated seamlessly with local health authorities to spearhead COVID-19 screening initiatives and flu vaccine campaigns, ensuring the safety and well-being of the community at large.
Additionally, their recent contributions to the National Coalition for 100 Black Women and Hart Middle School underscore their unwavering commitment to humanitarian causes, leaving an indelible mark on those they serve.
In conclusion, the Black Nurses Association of Greater Washington, D.C.A, INC. epitomizes the very essence of compassionate care and unwavering dedication. Their indomitable spirit serves as an inspiration to us all, reaffirming the belief that through collective action and unwavering resolve, we can surmount even the most daunting of challenges.