The Charleston Job Corps Center (CJCC) operated by Horizons Youth Services welcomed Taya Williams, Coordinator, Office of Minority Health, WV Bureau for Public Health. The presentation was held in honor of National Minority Health Month on Monday, April 18, 2016. Students and staff received information regarding health and success during the business meeting. Williams said, “The WV Office of Minority Health is concerned about all aspects of your health, not just physical, but mental and emotional health as well.” Williams connected with the students by sharing her personal experiences and education barriers to success. CJCC student, Don Tyler was picked by Williams to represent students during her presentation.

The office of minority health will work to address West Virginian’s most vulnerable populations to address disease prevention, promote healthy lifestyle choices, and the use of health services. Vulnerable populations in WV is defined by age, race or ethnicity, socio-economic status, geography, disability status, and risk status related to sex and gender.

In recognition of National Minority Health Month, business community liaison, Tia Welch coordinated the presentation for students and staff. “You can have a successful career and wealth, but if you are not healthy it affects your whole life” said Welch. According to the
website, www.minorityhealth.hhs.gov “The theme for 2016 is “Accelerating Health Equity for the Nation.” We invite all across the nation to join with the HHS Office of Minority Health to raise awareness of the health disparities that continue to affect racial and ethnic minorities and how we are working together to accelerate health equity.”