It is peach picking season! The soil has been tilted, fertilized, and nurtured for planting. The process of preparing, growing, and harvesting peaches can take years. When the trees start to bloom and the blooms start to bud, special care is taken to protect the harvest from the elements. Some farmers put outdoor heaters in between the rows of trees to keep them warm during the cold snaps. When the buds start turning into fruit, the trees are pruned so the peaches do not grow too close together.
Timing is everything in the picking of these nice, sweet, delicious fruits. Similar to the care that peach farmers use, the Georgia Team has diligently worked to form strong partnerships across 16 counties and/or cities across Georgia to prevent and/or delay the onset of type 2 diabetes in communities of color over the last five years.
On August 4th, we conducted our first State Engagement Meeting, hosted by Shy Temple CME Church located in Decatur, Georgia, with over 30 healthcare, faith-based, and community partners (i.e., our proverbial peaches). During the State Engagement Meeting, partners were provided with an overview of the mission and programs of The Balm In Gilead by Founder and CEO, Dr. Pernessa Seele. Dr. Seele shared what she called "a little idea" and her passion for helping those impacted by HIV and AIDS more than 30 years ago. Dr. Seele stated that she was determined to establish a system that utilized the influence of faith-based organizations to provide health education and resources to African American communities.
Dr. Seele also shared her vision for the future of The Balm In Gilead, including new partners and programs. Our partners were invited to participate in a question-and-answer session that renewed their commitment and dedication to supporting programs and future health initiatives that will improve the health and wellness of communities of color. We're excited to keep working with our faith-based, community, and health care partners on these new projects.
