Message from the CEO

I feel a sense of hope and excitement as we head into a new year, our 50th anniversary as an organization, and now a federal structure to combat COVID-19.

Change is coming, and we are seeing the glimmers of healing and recovery all around us. 

Here at Community Health of South Florida, Inc. (CHI) we have started to administer the COVID-19 vaccine to our staff, the frontline healthcare workers, and to those over the age of 65. We hope the government will continue to enhance the supply of the vaccine and soon open restrictions so it is more widely available. Then we will all be on the road to recovery. I have received the vaccine and so have many of the doctors and nurses here at CHI. I encourage you all to do the same. It is the only way to stay safe and finally rid ourselves of this pandemic. 

In fact, on February 15th, we will be hosting a webinar as part of our Black History Month celebration. This virtual conference will focus on the role that blacks have played in vaccine development as well as the current COVID-19 vaccines. 

We will explore the long history of vaccine hesitancy among people of color and explain why getting the COVID-19 vaccine is so critical. I hope you will join us for this important webinar. 

You can register here

chisouthfl.org/blackhistory

Did you know a black female scientist helped develop the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine? In March, we’re celebrating key women, like her, during Women’s History Month. Of course, among these women is our very own Doris Ison, who founded CHI back in 1971, and now, 50 years later, her labor of love has grown into 11 thriving health centers, with comprehensive services throughout Miami-Dade and Monroe Counties. 

Female pioneers are all around us, making sacrifices for the betterment of others. These are the women who continue to inspire change. In March, we hope you will donate to the Children’s Crisis Center in honor of one of these special women. You can find more information about our campaign at the end of this newsletter. 

Let’s celebrate the future together as we work towards a healthier community. For 50 years, CHI has eliminated barriers to health care for everyone, regardless of income or race. We are proud to continue to serve you and your family as your medical home.

With Gratitude,

Brodes H. Hartley, Jr.