Health Connections | June 2025

JUNE 2025

Digital Magazine health connections

Ari Benjamin, MD Chief
Medical
Officer

Sexual Health Fair

Summer Series

Celebrating Caribbean - American Culture

Honor the achievements and contributions of Caribbean immigrants and their descendants living in the United States

Navigating Men ’ s Health Close the Empathy Gap in Men’s Care

MEN’S
HEALTH SUMMIT

FATHER’S
DAY RECOGNITIONS

RESIDENCY PROGRAM

Table of Contents Featured Highlights

CEO Renee Hastick-Motes, MPA provides highlights JPAFHC’s steadfast commitment to quality health care amid healthcare policy changes CEO MESSAGE Raising awareness, and providing essential education, and champion well-being for men across our community. Tackling the unique health challenges men face. MEN’S HEALTH MONTH FATHER’S DAY RECOGNITION Celebrating JPAFHC dads! This important day to recognize the important role fathers play in their children's lives and to celebrate the concept of fatherhood. RESIDENCY PROGRAM We welcomed over 15 new internal medicine residents to the Joseph P. Addabbo Family Health Center. Their involvement will significantly enhance our mission of advancing health equity and improving access to care in Southeast Queens and Red Hook Brooklyn. The community health fair, themed 'Sexual Wellness for All,' is a free event suitable for the entire family. At JPAFHC, we are dedicated to empowering individuals in Southeast Queens and Red Hook, Brooklyn. SEXUAL HEALTH FAIR: SUMMER SERIES Caribbean American Heritage Month, celebrated in June, recognizes and honors the rich history, culture, and contributions of Caribbean Americans to the United States. It's a time to celebrate the diversity of Caribbean cultures and their influence on American society. CELEBRATING CARIBBEAN-AMERICAN CULTURE

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.

OFFICE OF COMMUNICATIONS & PUBLIC AFFAIRS

Editor-in-Chief Keisha Gilles, M.A. VP of Engagement & Strategic Initiatives

Tiffany Doris Contracts & Development Manager

Ruben Flores Community Outreach Manager

Malcolm Moussignac Digital Marketing & Strategic Engagement Manager

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:

As
we
welcome
the
summer
months,
I
want
to
extend
my
heartfelt
appreciation
for
your
continued
dedication and
hard
work.
Your
unwavering
commitment
is
what
makes
JPAFHC
a
trusted
beacon
of
care
and
support
in our
community.
The
success
we
are
achieving
is
a
direct
reflection
of
your
excellence
—
and
for
that,
I sincerely
thank
you.

This
month,
we’re
proud
to
highlight
and
celebrate
several
impactful
initiatives
that
reflect
our
mission
and values:

Preparation
for
Upcoming
Regulatory
Site
Surveys As
we
prepare
for
our
upcoming
regulatory
site
visits,
it’s
essential
that
we
remain
diligent
in
upholding
the high
standards
our
patients
and
partners
rely
on.
Please
ensure
that
all
protocols
and
procedures
are
current and
compliant.
Your
continued
attention
to
detail
and
commitment
to
quality
will
help
us
meet
—
and
exceed —
expectations,
showcasing
our
dedication
to
delivering
exceptional
care. Men’s
Health
Summit In
honor
of
Men’s
Health
Month,
we
successfully
hosted
our
inaugural
Men’s
Health
Summit.
This
impactful event
provided
vital
screenings,
health
education,
and
resources
aimed
at
empowering
men
in
our
community to
lead
healthier
lives.
Thank
you
to
everyone
who
helped
bring
this
important
initiative
to
life. Caribbean
Heritage
Month June
also
marked
Caribbean
Heritage
Month
—
a
meaningful
opportunity
to
celebrate
the
vibrant
culture, history,
and
contributions
of
Caribbean
communities.
At
JPAFHC,
we
not
only
honor
this
rich
heritage
but also
remain
focused
on
addressing
health
disparities
that
affect
these
populations.
This
is
yet
another
step
in our
commitment
to
delivering
equitable,
inclusive
care
for
all. Dedication
to
Community
Outreach Last
month,
we
launched
our
Community
Sexual
Health
Fair
Summer
Series,
highlighting
the
importance
of comprehensive
sexual
health
education
and
services.
These
outreach
efforts,
which
include
free
health services,
awareness
initiatives,
and
cultural
support
programs,
are
at
the
heart
of
our
mission.
Your dedication
to
these
efforts
continues
to
strengthen
the
health
and
well-being
of
the
communities
we
serve. Thank
you
once
again
for
all
that
you
do
to
make
JPAFHC
the
community
health
center
of
choice.
I
look forward
to
all
we
will
accomplish
together
this
summer
and
beyond
—
building
stronger,
healthier communities
through
your
incredible
work.

Renee Hastick-Motes, MPA

“We know that men put off going to the doctor until something feels wrong, often too late. This summit was about normalizing preventive care and creating a safe space for open conversations around physical, oral and mental health. Early intervention saves lives, and events like this help bring that message home.” Navigating Men’s Health 2025 Men’s Health Summit: The Power of Wellness Ari Benjamin, MD | Chief Medical Officer

On Wednesday, June 25, the Joseph P. Addabbo Family Health Center (JPAFHC) proudly hosted a 2025 Men's Health Summit: Power of Wellness, a unifying event that brought together community members from Southeast Queens and Rockaway. Held at the Community Health Education & Training Center at the JPAFHC Annex in Arverne, this event underscored the importance of National Men's Health Month. This year's theme, "Closing the Empathy Gap," was a rallying cry for all attendees, reinforcing the sense of unity and shared purpose in the community. The afternoon was filled with valuable activities designed to promote health and well-being. Participants had the opportunity to access free health screenings, receive insurance assistance, engage in fitness activities, and take part in meaningful wellness conversations. Health professionals were on-site to provide essential services such as prostate cancer and blood pressure screenings, HIV testing, and to discuss common yet preventable health issues that can significantly impact men’s long-term health outcomes. This event was a step forward in empowering men to prioritize their health and seek the care they deserve. The event showcased an impressive panel of medical and subject matter experts, featuring Dr. Alan Friedman, Dr. Ifeanyi Oguagha, and Davond A. Motes from The Academy Charter School. Their insights and expertise greatly contributed to the discussions. Additionally, we were honored to have special guest Chef Adonis, who added an engaging perspective to the event.

Davond A. Motes, MAA Assistant Athletic Director/Physical & Health Education

Ifeanyi C. Oguagha, MD Director of Adult Medicine

Alan Friedman D.D.S. Chief of Dental Operations

Call us for appointment and consultation (718) 945-7150 SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR ELECTED OFFICIALS: NYS Senator James Sanders, Jr. and NYS Assemblymember Khaleel Anderson We value your partnership. Prioritize your health, champion your well-being

#JPAFHC DADS

CELEBRATING Father's DAY

Joseph P. Addabbo Family Health Center

WHERE EXPERTISE MEETS EMPATHY. J OIN OUR HEALTHCARE FAMILY. Careers@addabbo.org

HR CONNECTION

We encourage all employees to complete their annual training through Hometown Health by Friday, July 18th . Staying up to date with training is crucial for our personal and professional growth. Thank you for your attention to these important tasks! We’re thrilled to welcome Summer Youth Program participants to our site this summer. Let’s work together to make their experience inspiring, enjoyable, and unforgettable.

TONYA AUSTIN SHRM-CP, MHRM Human Resources Director

NIKETA EASON, SHRM-SCP Human Resources - Talent Acquisition

JENI PROMAX Human Resources Coordinator

Joseph P. Addabbo Family Health Center

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

AWARDS & RECOGNITION

We are excited to celebrate our Chief Executive Officer, Renee Hastick-Motes, MPA, for her recent accomplishments. She was awarded the Caribbean Heritage Month Award by Brooklyn District Attorney Eric Gonzalez, recognizing her significant contributions to the community. Additionally, Mrs. Motes was honored at the REMA4US Black Tie Event for her unwavering commitment to community service. Please join us in acknowledging her inspiring work and dedication!

We would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to Arlene Rodriguez, COO, Ari Benjamin, MD, CMO, and Shedline Pierre, VP of Clinical Operations, for graciously accepting the awards on behalf of Mrs. Motes. Your support in this moment is truly appreciated and highlights the

commitment of our leadership team. Thank you to JPAFHC Board Member Ms. Nancy Martinez for the REMA4US nomination.

Joseph P. Addabbo Family Health Center

WELCOME We are excited to welcome over 15 new internal medicine residents to the Joseph P. Addabbo Family Health Center. Their involvement will significantly enhance our mission of advancing health equity and improving access to care in the Southeast Queens and Red Hook Brooklyn communities we serve. In line with JPAFHC’s commitment to community-based healthcare, these residents will actively engage with patients from diverse backgrounds. Internal Medicine Residents

Their efforts will address social determinants of health and promote wellness at the local level, fostering a healthier community for everyone.

We welcomed the new residents with a comprehensive orientation led by Dr. Ari Benjamin, Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Sergelyne Cadet Valeus, Internist and Residency Lead, along with other key members of the JPAFHC team.

We look forward to the valuable contributions these residents will make during their time with us and are confident they will help create a positive impact in the community.

Joseph P. Addabbo Family Health Center

FAMILY HEALTH & Fitness Physical activity is an important part of being healthy at any age. If you have kids who are often glued to a screen, encouraging everyone to get moving may feel like a chore, but it doesn’t have to be. In fact, it can be a lot of fun. Planning active family activities can encourage healthier habits in kids while helping to build lasting memories. Family fun days that include physical activity are a great way to spend quality time together, get some exercise and show kids how much fun it can be to be active. Here are 6 ideas to get your whole crew moving. Organize a backyard Olympics. You don’t need fancy equipment to set up your own Olympic-style games. Use household items like jump ropes, hula hoops or water bottles as cones. Let each family member plan a silly or sporty event and come up with the rules and prizes together. It’s a great way to get everyone’s heart rate up while having some good laughs.

Take a family bike ride. Biking is a fun way to explore your neighborhood or nearby trails. It’s gentle on joints and great for building endurance. Pack a healthy snack, stop at a local park or playground and make it a mini adventure. Just remember to wear helmets and follow bike safety rules. Plan a family outing. There are lots of places you can all go as a family to have fun and be active, depending on the age levels of your kids. Some ideas include visiting a trampoline park, going bowling, enjoying a session at the local roller or ice skating rink, or trying indoor rock climbing. Let kids take turns picking their favorite activities.

SCHEDULE APPOINTMENT

Adult & Family Medicine Practice

(718) 945-7150 Contact Us

www.addabbo.org Visit Our Website

CELEBRATING CARIBBEAN-AMERICAN HERITAGE MONTH

This vibrant and delicious Caribbean-themed potluck event was a remarkable opportunity to celebrate the rich cultures, traditions, and flavors of the Caribbean. JPAFHC team members united to share homemade dishes, festive music, and genuine camaraderie that truly embodied the spirit of the islands. From jerk chicken and plantains to delightful desserts, every bite was bursting with flavor! Thank you to everyone who participated, contributed a dish, or joined us in experiencing this vibrant culture. Your enthusiasm and engagement turned this event into a true success. Let’s continue to honor and embrace diversity.

www.addabbo.org

Back to School Immunization PEDIATRIC PRACTICE Get Your Child Vaccinated Before the School Year Begins

Experienced Pediatrician

Personalize Treatment Plans

Child-Friendly Environment

Healthy kids, bright futures: Invest in their well-being.

Schedule Appointment

Call us! (718) 945-7150

JPAFHC COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIPS

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.

Upcoming Dates July 24 - Red Hook Brooklyn July 24 - Suthpin Boulevard August 7 - Arverne August 7 - Central Avenue

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.

WIC FOOD PANTRY INSURANCE ACCESS HEALTH RESOURCES Tuesdays & Thursdays 9:30 am - 12:30 pm 1525 Central Avenue Far Rockaway, NY 11691

Joseph P. Addabbo Family Health Center

COMMUNITY HEALTH FAIR: SEXUAL WELLNESS FOR ALL

On Saturday, June 14th, 2025, our Wellness and Social Services team hosted our Community Health Fair: Sexual Wellness for All Summer Series. Despite the challenging weather with pouring rain, our committed teams were on- site, successfully engaging the community by offering free STI and HIV screenings, as well as valuable reproductive health resources and LGBTQ+ inclusive health information. We are grateful to our wonderful JPAFHC team and the community members whose support made this event possible. Together, we’re making strides in promoting sexual wellness for everyone. Join us on Saturday, August 2, 2025, for our next fair at our Jamaica location!

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

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