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The season is changing. October always brings with it a sense of reflection and gratitude. It is a time to pause and appreciate the people, partnerships and purpose that drive our work every day. As we begin to step into the heart of the holiday season, we’re reminded that gratitude isn’t just about saying “thank you.” It’s about giving back, showing up and staying connected to the communities we serve.
This month, we’re especially proud to highlight how we’re doing just that. From our presence at community events, as captured below, to our upcoming Health, Hope & Healing Wellness Fair in Columbus, GA, we continue to focus on creating spaces for health, hope and connection.
We’re also excited to spotlight Dr. Daniel Driffin, a national leader and advocate whose work inspires us to keep pushing forward with compassion and courage.
As we close out the year, we remain thankful for your support, partnership and shared commitment to building healthier, stronger communities. Your involvement is invaluable. Connect with us through our Georgia Thrives website contact form or on our social media platforms.
If we continue to pause long enough to make these moments count by sharing the information, showing up and being partners in the work, together we will see Georgia Thrive in 2025!
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We're Bringing Health, Hope & Healing to Columbus, GA
Share this message with friends, family and anyone you know near Columbus, GA.
Meet us at Valley Healthcare on Saturday, November 1, for our first Health, Hope & Healing Wellness Fair from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. There’s still time to register — and it’s FREE!
| | | | Here are a few things you can expect to experience at the fair. | | Start the morning with a workout led by the amazing Mr. Cardio to get your blood pumping! | | Get FREE physical, dental and vision exams on the spot. | | Speak with professionals in behavioral health for people of all ages. | | Take part in one-on-one prayer with spiritual leaders if you want. | | Come and experience boarding the big red fire truck and get treats. | | Learn line dances and enjoy the music all day with our live DJ. | | Win a gift card for free groceries. | | We will have post-Halloween treats for the kiddos. | | | YOU MUST BE PRESENT TO WIN. REGISTRATION IS REQUESTED. LIMITED TICKETS. REGISTER NOW. | | |
Meet Dr. Daniel D. Driffin
Public Health Advocate and HIV Equity Leader
Daniel D. Driffin, DrPH, MPH, is a leading voice in the fight against HIV and a powerful advocate for health equity. He serves as external relations project manager with the HIV Vaccine Trials Network (HVTN) and is cofounder of THRIVE Support Services, a peer advocacy organization focused on empowering Black gay and gender-diverse individuals living with HIV.
Driffin’s journey is rooted in community-focused solutions. He speaks openly as a person living with HIV, bridging science and lived experience to destigmatize the disease and expand public understanding. He made national headlines when he delivered remarks at the 2024 White House World AIDS Day observance.
A graduate of Georgia State University’s Doctor of Public Health program and Morehouse School of Medicine’s Master of Public Health Class of 2018, Driffin’s work emphasizes community engagement, equity and translating research into accessible programs. Through listening sessions, partnerships with health departments and advocacy initiatives, he strives to ensure that marginalized communities have a voice in the design and delivery of health interventions.
Whether speaking to national audiences or convening grassroots leaders, Driffin remains committed to the principle that public health must center the people it seeks to serve.
| | We asked Dr. Driffin, "Based on your experience, what are the top three things communities can do to reduce HIV stigma and support people living with HIV?" | | |
KNOW
"Know your own HIV status! It takes less than 20 minutes and can be completed in the comfort and privacy of your home."
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REMIND
"Remind family, friends, loved ones and community members that HIV treatment works!"
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REMEMBER
"We have the power to end new HIV diagnoses if we work together!"
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Morehouse School of Medicine’s Community Engagement Day 2025
On October 4, Morehouse School of Medicine hosted its 11th annual Community Engagement Day at the C.T. Martin Natatorium and Recreation Center. The event was free and open to all ages. SHLI was on hand to offer health resources and educational materials from its many projects.
CLICK HERE OR ON THE GRAPHIC FOR A RECAP GIF.
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Spelhouse Homecoming 2025
We were there! On October 17, in the midst of the Spelhouse Homecoming 2025 celebration, SHLI was connecting with the community and sharing valuable information to help save lives.
CLICK HERE OR ON THE GRAPHIC FOR A RECAP GIF.
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Sex in the Dark 2025
On October 17, the Satcher Health Leadership Institute, in collaboration with the AUCC Student Health and Wellness Center, hosted Sex in the Dark at the Martin Luther King Jr. International Chapel. The free, judgment-free event invited students to ask questions and receive expert information on sexual health topics, including STIs, PrEP, contraception and relationships. Presenters Tyson Randolph and Ashley Cobb led the discussion and provided valuable resources to empower campus wellness.
CLICK HERE OR ON THE GRAPHIC FOR A RECAP VIDEO.
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Help Us Spread the Word
We’ve created a ready-to-share social media graphic for you, designed to spread the word about our upcoming Health, Hope & Healing Wellness Fair in Columbus, GA, on Saturday, November 1, from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m. Sharing this on your personal platforms is a simple but powerful way to help us reach more people with these lifesaving messages. Please share with your network!
Suggested Caption:
If you are in or around Columbus, GA, don’t miss this free event on November 1! Receive mental, physical and spiritual support, along with door prizes and giveaways. Registration required: https://HHHWellnessFair.eventbrite.com
Suggested hashtags:
#HealthHopeHealing2025 #SHLI #WellnessFair #GeorgiaThrives #MSM
If you tag Satcher Health Leadership Institute, we will acknowledge you on our page!
| | | |  | Health, Hope & Healing Wellness Fair (Columbus, GA) | | |
The Satcher Health Leadership Institute encourages everyone to get tested and know their status. Click here (pages 37-38) to view a listing of local area testing sites (Source: NIH-funded Center for AIDS Research at Emory University). Together, we can mark another milestone in the Black community's ever-evolving history of better tomorrows and brighter futures.
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