MAY 2025
Digital Magazine health connections
Renee Hastick-Motes, MPA Chief Executive Officer
Transformation & Innovation
JPAFHC: New Vision for Future Growth
RIBBON CUTTING CEREMONY
CELEBRATING NURSES WEEK
SOCIAL SERVICES & RESOURCES
FARMER’S MARKET
Table of Contents Featured Highlights
CEO Renee Hastick-Motes, MPA provides valuable updates and outlines strategic plans aimed at fostering growth, encouraging innovation, and enhancing the advancement of healthcare. CEO MESSAGE The Joseph P. Addabbo Family Health Center Celebrates the Ribbon Cutting of New Annex Advancing Access to Care in Southeast Queens. RIBBON CUTTING CEREMONY CELEBRATING NURSES WEEK National Nurses Week is observed annually from May 6th to May 12th, culminating on May 12th, which is both Florence Nightingale's birthday and International Nurses Day.
FARMER’S MARKET
Schneps Media gathered extraordinary healthcare professionals to forge meaningful connections, celebrate achievements, and honor one another’s remarkable contributions to the field. AWARDS AND RECOGNITIONS In collaboration with The Campaign Against Hunger, the Joseph P. Addabbo Family Health Center proudly offers access to a farmers' market at our locations in Brooklyn, Far Rockaway, and Jamaica, bringing fresh, locally grown produce to nourish our community. Through this initiative, JPAFHC and the JCCRP are combining their missions to uplift vulnerable populations and ensure that no one in the Rockaway Peninsula goes without the support they need. SOCIAL SERVICES AND RESOURCE ACCESS
Joseph P. Addabbo Family Health Center
Table of Contents The Joseph. P Addabbo Family Health Center The Joseph P. Addabbo Family Health Center, Inc. is a dynamic Federally Qualified Health Center dedicated to advancing value-based care. For over a decade, we have successfully operated five locations in Red Hook, Brooklyn, Rockaway, and Southeast Queens , serving as a vital resource for families in these communities. Our mission is to enhance access to affordable healthcare, build strong, trust-based relationships between providers and patients, and leverage technology to improve treatment effectiveness. We take pride in being recognized as one of New York City's leading FQHCs and remain committed to making a meaningful, positive impact on the health and well-being of our communities.
HEALTH CONNECTIONS Connect + Engage + Inform + Inspire
Health Connections is a digital magazine focused on connecting, engaging, informing, and inspiring its readers. This monthly publication provides important health education and resources, while also sharing updates about the dedicated team members at the Health Center. Additionally, it promotes essential health and social resources, as well as events that empower our community.
Editor-in-Chief Keisha Gilles, M.A. VP of Engagement & Strategic Initiatives OFFICE OF COMMUNICATIONS & PUBLIC AFFAIRS
Cherisse Adams Director of Communications & Marketing Tiffany Doris Manager of Contracts & Development
Dwayne Edwards, Jr. Community Health Worker
Jennifer Omorogbe-Akpata Community Health Worker
Joseph P. Addabbo Family Health Center
"Health equity is essential for empowering every individual to achieve their healthiest life possible, no matter their identity, location, or financial resources. Everyone deserves this opportunity."
Renee Hastick-Motes, MPA Chief Executive Officer
A WORD FROM OUR CEO
Dear JPAFHC Team Members:
It has now been six months since I joined The Joseph P. Addabbo Family Health Center (JPAFHC), and I want to take a moment to express my sincere gratitude for the warm welcome extended to me by our dedicated team and the communities we serve. It is truly an honor to be part of an organization that plays such a vital role in enhancing patient care and improving health outcomes. I am especially proud to lead an organization with such a rich legacy of transforming healthcare across Southeast Queens and Red Hook, Brooklyn. Through our five locations, JPAFHC provides preventive care, social support, and a broad range of ancillary services. Our mission—to ensure that every patient’s health and social needs are met with compassion, trust, and equity—remains central to everything we do, regardless of a patient’s ability to pay. In just a short period, we’ve made tremendous strides in strengthening access and delivering exceptional, patient-centered care. Our transformational journey continues, with the goal of ensuring that all five of our sites operate seamlessly as trusted medical homes for the more than 30,000 patients we serve each year. Over the past 100 days, we’ve reached several key milestones that reflect the dedication of our team and the strength of our community partnerships: A 5% increase in our patient census A reduced no-show rate of just 2%, the lowest in months A restructured call center IVR system to enhance call routing and response Onsite insurance and WIC enrollment at the Jewish Community Council of the Rockaway Peninsula (JCCRP) food pantry A new “food-for-medicine” initiative with The Campaign Against Hunger (TCAH) Complimentary water stations added to our waiting areas Implementation of a comprehensive communications and branding strategy These achievements demonstrate our ongoing commitment to quality care while helping reduce the reliance on emergency services. The future is bright for our health centers, and I am confident that we are well-positioned to build on this momentum. Looking ahead, I recognize that lasting organizational change takes time. Please know that I remain deeply committed to maintaining transparency and open lines of communication as we continue to shape the future of JPAFHC—together.
Thank you again for your unwavering dedication, partnership, and service.
Warm regards, Renee Hastick-Motes
U.S. Rep. Gregory Meeks, who played a key role in securing federal funding for the project, praised the center for its mission and its expansion. “I have always been an advocate for providing the Addabbo Family Health Center with adequate federal funding to serve the growing and diverse population of the Rockaways,” he said. “Investing in the facility’s expansion allows for healthcare personnel to improve their medical services for patients and continue providing them with the quality care they deserve.” The over 20,000-square-foot, LEED-certified annex, located adjacent to the existing center at 6200 Beach Channel Dr. in Arverne, includes 21 new exam rooms, upgraded clinical and administrative areas, ADA-compliant infrastructure, off-street parking, green space, and enhanced lab and conference areas. Constructed to Infection Control Risk Assessment (ICRA) standards, the expansion was completed without disrupting patient care. Joseph P. Addabbo Family Health Center (JPAFHC) celebrated the grand opening of its newly constructed annex facility with a ribbon-cutting ceremony. Bringing together health center leadership, dedicated staff, board members, government officials, community partners, and local residents, the event marked the official opening of a transformative expansion. Joseph P. Addabbo Family Health Center hosts a special Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony to celebrate the official opening of our new over 20,000-square-foot Annex in Arverne, Queens. The ribbon-cutting ceremony was attended by Congressman Gregory Meeks, Senator Joseph P. Addabbo Jr., Queens, Borough President Donovan Richards, Council Member Selvena Brooks-Powers, Board of Directors Chair Betty Leon, CEO Renee Hastick-Motes, COO Arlene Rodriguez , along with dozens of staff and board members, plus community stakeholders.
Virtual Tour
Event Photos
Joseph P. Addabbo Family Health Center
THE POWER OF NURSES™ . THIS YEAR’S THEME SHINES A NATIONAL SPOTLIGHT ON NURSES AS THE DRIVING FORCE BEHIND COMPASSIONATE CARE, INNOVATION, AND TRANSFORMATIVE CHANGES IN HEALTHCARE. Thank you for your priceless contributions in delivering compassionate care to our patients in their most intimate and vulnerable moments.
Joseph P. Addabbo Family Health Center
Joseph P. Addabbo Family Health Center
MOTHERS In partnership with The Campaign Against Hunger, The Joseph P. Addabbo Family Health Center proudly hosted an intimate and informative Mother's Day celebration. This inspiring event united the community in honoring the incredible strength and unconditional love of mothers, while also empowering attendees with essential health information and resources.
Joseph P. Addabbo Family Health Center
Joseph P. Addabbo Family Health Center
Schneps Media Caribbean Impact & Health Care Heroes Awards
Marie R. Gallant, RN-BSN Sergelyne Cadet Valeus, MD Carlene Mondesir-Harewood, MD
Joseph P. Addabbo Family Health Center
Joseph P. Addabbo Family Health Center
T A KING C A RE OF YOUR MENT A L HE A LTH PRACTICAL TIPS FOR EVERYDAY WELL-BEING
M E N T A L H E A L T H
Mental health is just as important as physical health. It affects how we think, feel, and act. Taking care of our mental health is essential for overall well-being. Here are some practical tips to help you maintain good mental health.
Practice self-care. Take time to do things that you enjoy, such as reading a book, taking a walk, or having a relaxing bath. Prioritizing self-care can help reduce stress and improve mood.
Connect with others. Having a support system is crucial for good mental health. Reach out to friends, family, or a mental health professional if you need to talk or receive guidance.
Joseph P. Addabbo Family Health Center
Behavioral Health Services We welcome patients from Brooklyn, Jamaica, Queens, Far Rockaway, Arverne, Red Hook, Rockaway, Inwood, Long Island and surrounding locations. Please call 718.945.7150 or use our online form to make an appointment.
HOW DO YOU KNOW IF YOU HAVE OCD? Obsessive compulsive disorder disrupts daily life and can be identified by these symptoms. Many people joke about being "a little OCD" when they like things neat or prefer routines. But obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is more than just being tidy or liking order. It’s a mental health condition that can disrupt daily life and cause significant distress. So how do you know if what you’re experiencing is OCD?
COMMON SIGNS OF OCD OCD looks different for everyone, but there are some common signs that may indicate you have it. This includes: Intrusive thoughts – Repeated, unwanted thoughts or fears that won’t go away. These thoughts can be about contamination, harm or things being “just right.” Fear of contamination – A strong fear of germs or dirt, leading to excessive cleaning or avoiding certain places and objects. Needing things to be exact – Feeling extreme discomfort if something isn’t symmetrical, in order or done a specific way. Counting or repeating words silently – Saying or thinking certain words, numbers or phrases repeatedly to reduce anxiety. Avoiding triggers – Staying away from certain places, objects or people because they might trigger obsessive thoughts. Distress when rituals are interrupted – Feeling panicked or anxious if a routine or compulsion is stopped or disrupted.
WHAT IS OCD?
OCD is a mental health disorder that causes recurring, unwanted thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors (compulsions). These obsessions and compulsions can take up a lot of time, cause anxiety and make it hard to go about daily activities. People with OCD often feel like they must perform certain rituals or routines to relieve stress or prevent something bad from happening, even if they know it doesn’t make sense. However, OCD isn’t just about visible behaviors. Sometimes, the struggle happens entirely in the mind. Some people with OCD experience obsessive thoughts without engaging in compulsive actions. These intrusive thoughts can be distressing, repetitive and hard to control, even if no physical rituals are involved. This type of OCD, sometimes called "pure O," can be difficult for others to recognize because the person doesn’t outwardly show compulsive behaviors.
Treatment for OCD OCD is more than just liking things neat or having specific preferences. It’s a disorder that can cause real distress. If your thoughts and behaviors take up a lot of time, cause distress or interfere with work, school or relationships, it may be time to seek professional help. A mental health professional can determine if you have OCD and can recommend the best treatment plan, which may include therapy, medication or a combination of both. With the right support and treatment, OCD can be managed, allowing for a better quality of life.
WHERE EXPERTISE MEETS EMPATHY. J OIN OUR HEALTHCARE FAMILY. Careers@addabbo.org
HR CONNECTION
Attention all clinical employees: Please take a moment to submit your BLS certification to Human Resources by June 13, 2025. This is an important step in ensuring our commitment to patient care and safety. We encourage all employees to complete their annual training through Hometown Health by Friday, July 18. Staying up-to-date with training is crucial for our personal and professional growth. Thank you for your attention to these important tasks!
TONYA AUSTIN SHRM-CP, MHRM Human Resources Director Joseph P. Addabbo Family Health Center
NIKETA EASON, SHRM-SCP Human Resources - Talent Acquisition
JENI PROMAX Human Resources Coordinator
We Are HIRING Supervisor, Call Center Location: Arverne, New York Schedule: Full-time | 100% On-site, 5 days a week
Key Responsibilities: Serve as a key team member working with the Chief Operating Officer to ensure excellent customer service and the speedy, courteous handling of Addabbo’s incoming telephone calls (internal and external). Act as a liaison between the health center and patients, addressing complaints and concerns related to telephone interactions and referring patients to appropriate departments as needed. Monitor call flow and wait times to support a smooth patient experience. Coordinate appointment reminder calls. Ensure administrative compliance with policies and procedures, maintaining adherence to organizational standards by all call center staff. Minimum Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Office Management/Administration, Customer Service Management, or a related field. At least 3 years of recent telephone operator/customer service experience. Minimum 1 year of supervisory experience. Proficiency in Microsoft Word and Excel. Strong communication skills, excellent customer service, and keen attention to detail.
SEND YOUR RESUME TO careers@addabbo.org
APPLY NOW
The Joseph P. Addabbo Family Health Center, Inc. is a leading Federally Qualified Health Center dedicated to transforming value-based care in underserved communities.
STROKE AWARENESS Identifying and managing these health conditions is key to preventing a stroke. Regular check-ups, proper medication use and healthy lifestyle habits like eating a balanced diet, staying active, limiting alcohol intake, not smoking and maintaining a healthy weight can all help lower your risk. Making small but consistent changes can have a big impact on your long-term health and is one of the best ways to lower your stroke risk. At The Joseph P. Addabbo Family Health Center we provide regular physicals, vaccinations, screenings and more. If your health warrants referral to a specialist, we
will monitor and coordinate your care as it moves forward. Contact us to make an appointment today! Your Health is Our Priority.
Joseph P. Addabbo Family Health Center
STROKE AWARENESS
Have These Conditions? You Might Have a Stroke These four health conditions increase your risk of having a stroke. A stroke happens when blood flow to a part of your brain is blocked or reduced, causing brain cells to die. This serious medical emergency can happen suddenly and without warning, but it is often linked to underlying health conditions that increase your chances of having a stroke. Understanding these conditions and managing them properly can significantly lower your stroke risk. High Blood Pressure (Hypertension) – High blood pressure means the force of blood pushing against your artery walls is consistently too strong. Over time, this added pressure can damage arteries, making them stiff or weak. This damage increases the risk of clots forming or vessels bursting, either of which can lead to a stroke. Since high blood pressure often has no symptoms, regular monitoring is essential for early detection and control. Diabetes – Diabetes affects how your body processes sugar, leading to high blood sugar levels. Over time, excess sugar damages blood vessels and nerves, making them more prone to blockages. Additionally, diabetes increases the likelihood of developing high blood pressure and high cholesterol, both of which raise stroke risk. Proper blood sugar management through diet, exercise and medication is crucial for reducing this risk. Atrial Fibrillation (AFib) – AFib is an irregular heartbeat that causes blood to pool in the heart instead of flowing smoothly. When blood sits still for too long, clots can form. If a clot breaks free and travels to the brain, it can block blood flow, causing a stroke. People with AFib have a significantly higher risk of stroke, making it crucial to manage this condition with medication and lifestyle changes. Obesity – Carrying excess weight puts extra stress on the heart and blood vessels, increasing the risk of high blood pressure, diabetes and high cholesterol. Each of these conditions independently raises the likelihood of stroke, and when combined, the risk becomes even greater. Losing weight through healthy eating, regular physical activity and medication if needed can improve overall cardiovascular health and lower stroke risk. We welcome patients from Brooklyn, Jamaica, Queens, Far Rockaway, Arverne, Red Hook, Rockaway, Inwood, Long Island and nearby areas. Please call 718.945.7150 or use our online form to make an appointment.
FARMER’S MARKET In collaboration with The Campaign Against Hunger, the Joseph P. Addabbo Family Health Center proudly offers access to a vibrant farmers' market at our locations in Brooklyn, Far Rockaway, and Jamaica, bringing fresh, locally grown produce to nourish our community. The market is open to all community members and JPAFHC staff, underscoring our commitment to equitable access to healthy food options. JPAFHC will offer a $25 Fresh Vibes voucher to patients who complete their annual physicals and health screenings. The voucher will be
redeemable at the mobile market to further promote preventive health. Connect with us on social media for important dates and announcements related to the Mobile Farmer’s Market, and be part of our thriving community.
@JPA Family Health Center
Joseph P. Addabbo Family Health Center
Social Services & Resources
1525 Central Avenue Far Rockaway, NY 11691
Tuesdays & Thursdays 9:30 am - 12:30 pm
Visit #JCCRP every Tuesday and Thursday to receive social services health care information and resources. Our partnership ensures that community members visiting JCCRP for pantry services or other community support will have direct, face-to-face access to essential information about the healthcare services available at JPAFHC. Community members can also schedule medical appointments, receive guidance on obtaining health insurance and connect to additional support programs. Through this initiative, JPAFHC and the JCCRP are combining their missions to uplift vulnerable populations and ensure that no one in the Rockaway Peninsula goes without the support they need.
WIC FOOD PANTRY
INSURANCE ACCESS HEALTH RESOURCES
Joseph P. Addabbo Family Health Center
40TH ANNUAL AIDS WALK NEW YORK
END.AIDS LIVE. FREE
AIDS Walk New York is the largest and most prominent fundraising event for HIV/AIDS in the world, held every May in Central Park. We sincerely thank everyone who joined us on the walk to raise awareness and strive to eradicate the stigma surrounding this disease. DEPARTMENT OF WELLNESS AND SOCIAL SERVICES
Joseph P. Addabbo Family Health Center is proud to be featured by NBC 4 Network for our partnership with Con Edison’s Energy Efficiency Program. Through this initiative, we’re reducing energy use, saving costs, and making our health centers more sustainable—without compromising care. #ICYMI In Case You Missed It!
MIRA AQUI
5 REASONS WHY YOU NEED A PRIMARY CARE DOCTOR
Holistic Health Care If you're facing a cough, dealing with anxiety or depression, or have questions about vaccines, your primary care doctor is the ideal resource. They provide comprehensive, holistic health care that effectively addresses a wide array of physical, emotional, and mental health concerns, allowing you to manage all your health needs in one convenient location. This approach not only streamlines your visits but also empowers you to discuss multiple issues in a single appointment. Better Manage Chronic Diseases Successfully managing chronic conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and arthritis can be much easier with the right support. A primary care doctor serves as a valuable partner in your health journey, helping you understand how your condition affects you and providing guidance on effective management strategies. By scheduling regular appointments and undergoing routine tests, you can take proactive steps to maintain your health and enhance your quality of life. Catch Health Issues Early Routine screenings play a vital role in the early detection of health issues, but the personal insight your primary care doctor has about you is just as crucial. Their understanding of your health history allows them to ask pertinent questions and identify potential concerns early on, often even before standard tests can detect anything. This collaborative approach can significantly enhance your overall health and well-being. Transparency of Entire Health History Engaging in regular visits with your primary care provider not only helps you feel more comfortable but also builds a valuable health history. This comprehensive understanding of both your medical background and your family's health history is essential for effective disease prevention. It enables your doctor to identify early symptoms of serious illnesses, ultimately supporting your journey towards better health. Decrease in Hospital and ER Visits Research suggests that patients who maintain regular visits with their primary care provider can significantly reduce their chances of hospitalization and emergency room visits. By prioritizing these routine check-ups and addressing symptoms early on, individuals can take proactive steps toward better health and avoid the costly and time- consuming consequences of delayed care.
(718) 945-7150 Call Us
www.addabbo.org Visit Our Website
WORKFORCE WELLNESS COMMITTEE The Workforce Wellness Committee is dedicated to fostering a thriving work environment for employees at the Joseph P. Addabbo Family Health Center. Our focus is on developing, implementing, and promoting initiatives that enhance the overall well-being of our staff. By prioritizing physical, mental, and emotional health, we aim to boost workplace morale and engagement, creating a supportive culture where wellness is at the forefront. We are committed to cultivating a workplace that values holistic health, encourages work-life balance, and ultimately enhances employee satisfaction.
COMMITTEE MEMBERS
Sarah Danley; Cherisse Adams; Tonya Austin; Carla Crawley; Malisher Glover; Dr. Varghese STAY TUNED FOR UPCOMING EMPLOYEE WORKFORCE WELLNESS EVENTS! Thomas Meyers, Chief Programs Officer-Committee Chair Nicole Taylor - Committee Vice-Chair
Joseph P. Addabbo Family Health Center
We want to hear your thoughts! Your insights are essential in helping us understand what matters most to our patients about the healthcare programs we provide at JPAFHC. Together, we can enhance our services and ensure they meet your needs effectively!
SURVEY SCAN/CLICK HERE
Contact Us
(718) 945-7150
What you eat may affect blood pressure, so add more of these foods to your plate. Bananas – High sodium intake can raise blood pressure, but eating potassium-rich foods like bananas helps balance sodium levels in the body Avocados – While most people know that bananas are high in potassium, you may not realize that avocados are just as much of a potassium powerhouse! Berries – Blueberries, strawberries and raspberries contain flavonoids, which have been linked to lower blood pressure levels. Spinach – This leafy green is rich in nitrates, which help relax blood vessels and improve blood flow. Beets – Naturally high in nitrates, this root vegetable helps dilate blood vessels and improve circulation
Add These 5 Foods to Your Diet to Lower Blood Pressure
High blood pressure, or hypertension, is a common health concern that increases your risk of serious health issues like heart disease, stroke and kidney damage. It affects millions of people worldwide, and while genetics and age can play a role, lifestyle factors such as diet can have a major impact on your risk of developing this condition. The good news is that making simple changes to what you eat can help you better manage blood pressure and protect your heart. Some foods contain key nutrients like potassium, magnesium and fiber that help regulate blood pressure, while others support better circulation and reduce inflammation. By following low sodium dietary guidelines when selecting the foods you eat, you can take a natural approach to keeping your numbers in check. And the best part? These foods are not only nutritious, but delicious. Including these foods in your diet can be a natural way to support healthy blood pressure. So can reducing the amount of salt you eat and incorporating more heart-healthy foods into your diet. But keep in mind that while diet plays an important role, maintaining an overall healthy lifestyle that includes staying active, reducing stress, not smoking and getting enough sleep, is the key to keeping your heart in tip-top shape.
Having high blood pressure puts you at risk for heart disease and stroke, which are leading causes of death in the United States. In 2022, high blood pressure was a primary or contributing cause of 685,875 deaths in the United States.
(718) 945-7150 addabbo.org
We welcome patients from Brooklyn, Jamaica, Queens, Far Rockaway, Arverne, Red Hook, Rockaway, Inwood, Long Island and nearby areas. Please call 718.945.7150 or use our online form to make an appointment.
Follow Us on Social Media
We’d love for you to connect with us for all the latest news and updates! Follow us for fun events, awesome photos, and important announcements. We can’t wait to share all the exciting things happening at JPAFHC with you!
@JPA Family Health Center
@JPAFHC
Joseph P. Addabbo Family Health Center
Health Connections
Communications & Public Affairs communications@addabbo.org We invite you to share your story for an exciting opportunity to be featured. Tell us about the great things happening in your departments. Don’t miss the chance to showcase your voice and make an impact!
(718) 945-7150 communications@addabbo.org addabbo.org
Page 1 Page 2 Page 3 Page 4 Page 5 Page 6 Page 7 Page 8 Page 9 Page 10 Page 11 Page 12 Page 13 Page 14 Page 15 Page 16 Page 17 Page 18 Page 19 Page 20 Page 21 Page 22 Page 23 Page 24 Page 25 Page 26 Page 27 Page 28 Page 29 Page 30 Page 31 Page 32 Page 33 Page 34 Page 35 Page 36 Page 37 Page 38Made with FlippingBook - PDF hosting