Community Engagement Report

At Klinic, maintaining the trust and support from the members of the community are fundamental to our ability to provide effective healthcare services. Engaging with the community allows us to understand their needs, tailor our services, and foster relationships that empower residents to take ownership of their well-being. This engagement ensures that our programs are relevant and impactful, promoting overall community health and resilience.

Over the past few years, our community has experienced significant changes, particularly due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The demographic diversity has also increased, bringing a wider range of cultural, ethnic, and socio-economic backgrounds into our fold. The pandemic highlighted and exacerbated vulnerabilities, necessitating a shift in how we deliver services.

Klinic responded to better serve marginalized populations we expanded telehealth services to overcome barriers such as transportation and mobility issues, ensuring continuous access to care. Our mental health services were strengthened to address the rising challenges of social isolation, anxiety, and substance use. These adaptations were crucial in meeting the evolving needs of our community and maintaining our commitment to social justice and inclusivity.

Hummingbird: A case for co-design

The launch of the Hummingbird program has been a significant milestone for Klinic. This comprehensive crisis response program for sexual assault and intimate partner violence (IPV) includes clinical care, access to justice, post-trauma support, and cultural support. Key achievements include:

1. Operational setup: Successfully established the program with trained staff and allocated resources.
2. Community awareness: Launched an awareness campaign to inform the community about available services.
3. Collaborative partnerships: Formed strong partnerships with law enforcement, healthcare providers, and legal aid organizations.
4. Enhanced clinical care: Provided specialized trauma-informed care for survivors.
5. Legal and advocacy support: Offered immediate legal assistance and rights education.
6. Mental health support: Expanded counseling services and established peer support groups.
7. Cultural competency: Ensured all services are culturally sensitive and inclusive.

Hummingbird and our broader community engagement initiatives are essential to Klinic’s strategic goals, which prioritize social justice, inclusivity, and holistic care. Our 2022-2026 strategic plan highlighted the significance of community engagement, and in November 2023, the Board adopted the Community Engagement Framework, further reinforcing this commitment. The program aligns with our goals by providing equitable access to services, fostering community empowerment, and ensuring a collaborative approach to health and well-being. It exemplifies our dedication to addressing systemic health disparities and promoting comprehensive care for all community members. 

Despite our successes, community engagement presents ongoing challenges:

1. Understanding engagement parameters: Ensuring mutual understanding of the engagement scope between Klinic and the community.
2. Closing the feedback loop: Guaranteeing that all involved parties hear the results and decisions made, fostering transparency and trust.
3. Resource limitations: Managing financial, staffing, and logistical constraints while trying to expand and sustain services.
4. Cultural sensitivity: Continuously adapting to the diverse cultural needs and expectations of the community.
5. Stigma and awareness: Overcoming stigma related to seeking help for issues like sexual assault and mental health.

To overcome these challenges and achieve our goals, Klinic will:

1. Strengthen communication: Enhance transparency and feedback mechanisms to ensure all voices are heard and acknowledged.
2. Sustain funding: Secure sustainable funding sources to maintain and expand programs.
3. Expand training: Provide ongoing cultural competency and trauma-informed care training for all staff.
4. Broaden outreach: Increase efforts to reach and engage marginalized and underserved populations.
5. Foster partnerships: Build and maintain strong networks with local organizations, healthcare providers, and community leaders.
6. Advocate for policy change: Continue to advocate for policies that support equity and justice in healthcare.

By focusing on these steps, Klinic will continue to grow and adapt, ensuring that we meet the evolving needs of our community with compassion, inclusivity, and dedication. Our commitment to community engagement remains steadfast, driving us towards a future where all community members are empowered, healthy, and supported.