Empowering Black Excellence: Black Health, Wealth, and Wellness Event Set to Celebrate Black History Month on February 22

Panel Discussion Presented by Champaign-Urbana Public Health District’s Justice Coalition

CHAMPAIGN, IL – The Champaign-Urbana Public Health District (CUPHD), along with the District’s Justice Coalition committee, is proud to announce, “Black Health, Wealth, and Wellness,” a panel discussion in celebration of Black History Month. Scheduled for February 22 from 6:00 pm to 7:30 pm, with doors opening at 5:30 pm for light refreshments, this event promises to be an empowering gathering of local Black community leaders highlighting the vital intersections of health, wealth, and wellness within the Black community.

At the heart of “Black Health, Wealth, and Wellness” is a distinguished panel of speakers and leaders, each bringing their unique perspectives and insights to the forefront. The panel includes Jeffrey Trask, co-leader of the Champaign-Urbana Reparations Coalition and founder of the Champaign County Christian Health Center; Seon Williams, an army veteran and community educator running for coroner in Champaign County; Chaundra Bishop, regional health officer for the Illinois Department of Public Health and Urbana city council member; Karen Crawford Simms, founding director of the Trauma & Resilience Initiative; and Shevon Brown-Walker, licensed professional counselor and Unit 4 middle school counselor; along with pastor, coach, and Urbana Public Television host of “Let the Truth be Told” Herbert Burnett, who will be moderating.

In partnership with the District's Justice Coalition, CUPHD is honored to host this impactful event, underscoring the commitment to fostering dialogue and action around issues vital to the well-being of the Black community. Champaign-Urbana Public Health invites all members of the community to attend and celebrate the rich tapestry of Black history and reaffirm CUPHD’s dedication to advancing health equity, economic empowerment, and holistic wellness for all.

Revolutionizing Energy Efficiency: Cutting-Edge Solar Panels Installed Atop Champaign-Urbana Public Health District

Champaign-Urbana Public Health Embraces Sustainability Through Implementation of Solar Energy

CHAMPAIGN, IL – Champaign-Urbana Public Health District (CUPHD) is proud to announce a significant step forward in its commitment to environmental stewardship. With a steadfast focus on reducing energy costs and minimizing its carbon footprint, CUPHD has recently completed the installation of state-of-the-art photovoltaic panels atop the 99,000 square foot building. This implementation not only underscores the organization’s dedication to sustainability but also marks a substantial milestone in its efforts to embrace renewable energy solutions.

The panels, installed by StraightUp Solar in Champaign, are estimated to produce 412,800 kWh of energy in the first 12 months of operation, and produce 60% of the overall grid energy usage. Financial incentives provided to CUPHD will reduce the cost of the system by roughly 60% as well.

“C-U Public Health District recognized the financial and community health benefits of generating solar electricity more than 8 years ago,” states Vice President of Development at StraightUP Solar Shannon Fulton, “StraightUp Solar is grateful for the opportunity to partner with the District on their solar journey and commends their proactive approach to stabilizing their budget by controlling their energy costs.”

The adoption of solar panels by CUPHD represents a strategic shift towards cleaner and more sustainable energy production. Unlike traditional methods of electrical production, which often rely on fossil fuels and contribute to greenhouse gas emissions, solar panels harness the power of sunlight, a renewable resource abundant in nature. “The methods we have historically used to produce electricity have great impacts to our health and environment. We are excited to see the C-U Public Health District 

Free Dental Exams and Cleanings for Children on Saturday, February 10, at Parkland College

The Illini District Dental Society, Champaign-Urbana Public Health District, and Parkland College Dental Hygiene Clinic Participate in Give Kids A Smile® Day

CHAMPAIGN, IL – The Illini District Dental Society will sponsor Give Kids A Smile® (GKAS) Day on Saturday, February 10, 2024, from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at the Parkland College Dental Hygiene Clinic located at 2400 W. Bradley in Champaign. The event is part of the Children’s Dental Access Program through the American Dental Association® (ADA), which provides free oral healthcare services to children of low-income families.

On February 10, local dentists and hygienists are taking the opportunity to give back to the community by volunteering time and services for GKAS. Free dental exams, cleanings, and fluoride treatments will be provided as needed to any child aged one to 17. The oral health fair will also offer a wide range of educational activities including dental hygiene education, free toothbrushes, and visits and pictures with the Tooth Fairy. No appointment is necessary; however, a parent or legal guardian must accompany the child. There are no income or residency requirements to receive services at the fair.

The Give Kids a Smile® (GKAS) program, launched nationally in 2003 by the American Dental Association, provides underserved children with free oral health care. Each year approximately 6,500 dentists and 30,000 dental team members volunteer at local GKAS events to provide free oral health education, screenings, preventive and restorative treatment to over 300,000 children across the United States.

Give Kids A Smile® Day is sponsored by the Illini District Dental Society in partnership with the Parkland College Dental Hygiene program and the Champaign-Urbana Public Health District.