Our Mission

To eradicate health disparities for African Americans by influencing health policy and practice through community engagement, advocacy, research and education.

Our Vision

To ensure that all West Michigan residents have optimal health care and benefit from health systems without race being an impediment.

Our History

The Grand Rapids African American Health Institute was established in 2002 in response to a growing body of evidence suggesting vast differences in health and healthcare outcomes for African Americans. 

Built on 4 Pillars of CARE

Community

We advocate for change by providing health literacy, resources, tools, and support for self-advocacy and community-led initiatives aimed at reducing health disparities.

Advocacy

GRAAHI is actively involved with communities, healthcare providers, policymakers, and other stakeholders to foster collaboration, shared decision-making, and the co-creation of solutions to address health disparities.

Research

Data utilization and community surveys ensure that everyone has an equal opportunity to attain their highest level of health, including fair distribution of resources, access to healthcare, and removal of systemic barriers.

Education

Education plays a vital role in raising awareness about health disparities, cultural competence, social determinants of health, and the importance of equitable healthcare access.

Community

We advocate for change by providing health literacy, resources, tools, and support for self-advocacy and community-led initiatives aimed at reducing health disparities.

Advocacy

GRAAHI is actively involved with communities, healthcare providers, policymakers, and other stakeholders to foster collaboration, shared decision-making, and the co-creation of solutions to address health disparities.

Research

Data utilization and community surveys ensure that everyone has an equal opportunity to attain their highest level of health, including fair distribution of resources, access to healthcare, and removal of systemic barriers.

Education

Education plays a vital role in raising awareness about health disparities, cultural competence, social determinants of health, and the importance of equitable healthcare access.

GRAAHI in Action

Since our founding in 2002, GRAAHI has made a significant impact on the health of African Americans in Grand Rapids.

Health Equity Matters

Help support our foundation of CARE and make a difference in our community.