Inside Health-Wise Woman

For nearly 25 years, the Black Women's Health Imperative (Imperative) has maintained a singular focus on promoting the health of African Americans as a top priority for our community, service providers, policy makers and researchers. Over the course of our history, we have successfully planned and implemented a wide array of projects at the local and national levels, addressing key health issues affecting Black women and their families.

At the heart of our work is a comprehensive approach that is guided by a cohesive vision summarized by the acronym C.A.R.E: community outreach, advocacy, resources and research and education. Our aim is to work collaboratively with our community in the sharing of health information and building the capacity of African American women to advocate for and secure the preventive care and treatment they need.

With a national office in Washington, D.C., the Imperative coordinates the efforts of a network of 42 affiliate relationships with field sites across the United States. This expansive network includes a rich blend of national and grassroots organizations that share a vision for working together to support the improved health and well-being of our community. Through collaboration, the Imperative and its national affiliates and community-based partners effectively shape and implement policies and programs that reach community residents at the local level and a broad national constituency.

As part of our broad focus on community health, the Imperative is committed to working within the community, the government and corporations to support greater awareness of the vital importance of optimal health and well-being for Black women. Drawing upon the strength of our organizational design and focus, our efforts will actively engage our affiliates and partners in the successful development and implementation of our “Health-Wise Woman” programming and projects.