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Values, Mission & Vision

Our Values

  • Giving Back

  • Giving Health

  • Collaborative Philanthropy

Giving Back

Acknowledging the historical and ongoing systemic barriers that Blacks and other underserved populations. JCAN works to address those barriers through a shared purpose with like-minded organizations. JCAN understands the importance of supporting and uplifting the Communities.

 

Through “giving back,” JCAN demonstrates a commitment and appreciation for the support received from community members, donors, and partners by offering:

  • Free or low-cost programs for underserved members of the community

  • Partnering with community organizations and leaders to identify and address community needs and engaging in system-level change

  • Contributes to health education forums and student learning

  • Awarding bursaries to healthcare students

  • Bringing the Black community together for social gatherings

Giving Health

We prioritize the provision of healthcare programs in collaboration with community partners and advocate for resources to promote wellness and address healthcare disparities among Blacks, and other underserved populations.


JCAN understands the historical systemic barriers that Blacks and other underserved populations have faced in accessing quality healthcare due to factors such as racism, discrimination, poverty, and inadequate healthcare infrastructure. As a result, it is widely known in the literature that Black individuals experience higher rates of chronic diseases such as diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease compared to other racial and ethnic groups.


Through “Giving Health,” JCAN serves Blacks and other underserved populations by:

  • Providing culturally relevant programs and services

  • Partnering with other organizations to offer community health fairs

  • Supporting health education

  • Raising awareness given the dearth of policies that promote healthcare equity and working to increase access to healthcare services in underserved areas

  • Prioritizing the overall well-being of Black and other underserved populations, including addressing social determinants of health

Collaborative Philanthropy

We work in partnership with other organizations and community members to address systemic issues and achieve sustainable social impact
 

JCAN recognizes that addressing the complex challenges facing the Black and other underserved populations requires a multi-faceted approach that goes beyond the scope of any one organization. We know that Black communities have a deep understanding of their own needs and can provide valuable insights and perspectives to guide philanthropic efforts.

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Through “Collaborative Philanthropy” JCAN:

  • Engages community members and partners in the process of identifying needs and designing solutions

  • Builds trust, ensures relevance and sustainability, and promotes community ownership and leadership

  • Leverages the support of Black-led non-profits, and Black-owned businesses

Our Mission

Our mission is to improve the health outcomes of Black and other underserved populations.

Our Vision

Our vision is to be the leading charity providing culturally relevant health program, services, and education to Black and other underserved populations.

How do we define the Black population?

Referring to "Blacks" as a race can vary depending on the context and geographical location, but generally, it refers to people who have dark skin color and are of African descent or ancestry. This can include individuals from various ethnic groups within the African diaspora, such as African Americans, Afro-Caribbeans, Afro-Latinos, and Africans living in different parts of the world. It's important to note that race is a social construct, and there can be a great deal of diversity within any racial category, including among people who are commonly referred to as "Black". (adapted from WikipediA)

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