Community capacity building occurs when the community is given the power of self-determination. It allows the community to determine its concerns and empowers it to develop and implement programming to reduce those concerns.

In 2018, AHN only worked one-on-one with families that needed medical insurance assessments and knowledge on an “easier” way to access health care providers. For approximately two years, AHN serviced over 100 families providing health navigation services. We raised funds and had a few cash-paying clients who would donate additional funds to help offset some of the costs. 

However, the onset of the pandemic brought about a significant shift. AHN swiftly adapted, entering a survival mode and devising a plan to address the new challenges. Our first funding during this period came from the first EVER Black-centric funding source from the City of Long Beach, aimed at increasing health equity for the Black community. This source later evolved into the Black Health Equity Collaborative of Long Beach. With this funding, we were able to provide culturally sensitive health education to over 350 Black Families and over 10 Black Serving Organizations. 

From January 2021 through 2022, we continued to serve Los Angeles County through partnerships from the California Department of Public Health, City of Long Beach, County of Los Angeles, Sierra Health Foundation, California Community Foundation, American Heart Association, City of Compton, Charles Communication Group, East Side Riders Bike Club, Cedars Saini, Southern California Edison, Long Beach  Unified School District, Chosen Generation Fellowship Church, Faithful Central Bible Church, The Center, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, Tau Beta Omega Chapter, and more. These partnerships allowed AHN to service over 4000 Black Community Members during a critical moment in our nation. 

As the nation transitioned from pandemic management to a broader focus on health equity, AHN remained steadfast in its commitment to the health equity of the Black family unit. In our programs for the Black community, forging new partnerships with 2023, we expand First 5, Best Start, City of Long Beach, Port of Long Beach, The Center, Sierra Health Foundation, and more.