Zoster Vaccine
For a limited time American Indian Health and Family Services has a limited surplus of Zoster vaccines available to those who qualify!
The Zoster vaccine helps increase your protection and decrease discomfort against the shingles, an extremely painful skin rash caused by the same virus as the chickenpox (varicella zoster virus). This pain can last for several months or years, cause complications involving the eye, and in some instances pneumonia, hearing problems, blindness, brain inflammation or even death.
Zoster infections are fairly common as one out of every three people age 60 or older will develop singles. That’s why we’re looking for patients or community members above the age of 60.
Community members age 60 and over can receive the Zoster vaccine for free at AIHFS if you:
- are American Indian/Alaska Native
- are NOT allergic to gelatin, or the antibiotic neomycin
- do NOT have a weakened immune system
- Or have insurance coverage of the Zoster vaccine (please call your insurance to verify)
While there is no cure for shingles, vaccination is the best way to protect yourself, or your loved elders from this disease. Talk to the elders in your life to remind them to be vaccinated against Zoster and other illnesses. To schedule an appointment or find more information, contact our medical clinic at 313-846-6030 or visit https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/vpd/shingles/public/index.html.
New Parent Support Group starts next week!
Becoming a parent is hard and it is common to feel stressed, overwhelmed, anxious, or down. Join us weekly as we discuss the joys and challenges of raising little ones as well as strategies to manage stress, cope with challenging emotions, and bond with your child. All expectant parents and caregivers of young children are welcome to attend any or all of this 7 week series. Childcare, snacks, and transportation (as available) are provided. Group will meet on Mondays, from 12-2pm, from January 29 through March 19 (no group February 19 due to Presidents’ Day). Spanish language interpretation will be provided.
To register or for more information, contact the AIHFS Healthy Start Program.
Mindfulness
Mindfulness is a self-regulation technique and practice of becoming fully present in the moment by focusing attention on one simple task, such as breathing or walking. Many research studies have shown numerous benefits of mindfulness practice that include stress reduction, increased resilience, and the improvement of mood disorders. Mindfulness is utilized in several treatment methods, including Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and has many benefits to offer clients and health providers alike. Join AIHFS staff, clients, and community members on Tuesdays from 12:30-1:00 pm in the Social Hall at AIHFS for a twenty minute guided meditation followed by brief sharing. No experience is necessary and all are welcome.
“I had been taught to seek the Great Mystery in silence, in the deep forest or on the height of the mountain.” ~Dr. Charles A. Eastman (Ohiyesa), Santee Sioux
Thrive by Five
In partnership with Starfish Family Services, AIHFS will be continuing Early Head Start Home-Based Services for the Thrive by Five Program in the Southwest Detroit area. We are currently enrolling pregnant mothers and children newborn to three years of age for this wonderful early childhood education program. Together, the parent and home visitor assist the child to learn through play. We believe the parent is the first and lifelong teacher in a child’s life. The parent and home visitor also dialogue about the children and family’s goals as well as needs to work towards solutions. Families receive weekly 90-minute visits and are invited to participate in regular playgroups where children and families can learn and engage with each other. To enroll in the EHS program we require proof of age, address and income. Contact us at 313-846-3718 to set up an enrollment appointment!
Community Advisory Council
Thursday, March 15th, 5:30pm-7:30pm, at AIHFS we will have Tonya Myers Phillips, Executive Director of the Southwest Detroit Community Justice Center, presenting about her organization.
AIHFS Job Opportunities
We have the following positions available here at AIHFS: Medical Assistant, Accounting Manager, Program Assistant, Employment & College Outreach Specialist, and Outreach & Training Coordinator. For job descriptions and how to apply, please go to our employment page: http://aihfs.org/employment.html
Mentorship Opportunities for High School Youth
The Dream Seekers Youth Program is committed to empowering youth physically, emotionally, spiritually, and mentally. In doing so, we have developed the Dream Seekers Mentorship Program which will run from January to May. Mentoring is a special partnership between two people based on commitment for mutual growth, trust, and respect. It can be a rewarding experience for both he Mentor and Mentee. This is a voluntary program for High School youth. If you wish to participate, please contact Joe Reilly at jreilly@aihfs.org or 313-846-3718 ext. 1401
Need Garden Space?
Sacred Roots is offering garden space and assistance for all of your planting needs. For more info, Rosebud, ph. 313-846-3718.