Ten Years of Advancing Health and Wellbeing in Our Communities
At Grameen America, we know that financial health is strongly connected to physical and mental wellbeing. Together, they lay the foundation entrepreneurs need to build resilient businesses and thrive in their communities.
This year marks ten years of Grameen America advancing the health and wellbeing of entrepreneurs who drive meaningful local impact across the country.
Through Grameen Promotoras, our dedicated community health initiative, we aim to improve health outcomes for entrepreneurs and small business owners with limited access to the mainstream health system. Since 2016, Grameen Promotoras has reached nearly 60,000 small business owners with health education, chronic disease screenings, and health system referrals, leading to better health outcomes across communities in California, Connecticut, New York, North Carolina, and Texas.
As we celebrate this milestone, we remain committed to investing in the whole entrepreneur because healthy entrepreneurs build stronger communities.
Through Grameen Promotoras, members in the program gain access to essential health education and care, including:
Educational workshops to increase knowledge and awareness of health-related topics, such as nutrition, health literacy, physical activity, and disease management;
Health screenings, such as the ADA Diabetes Type 2 Risk Assessment, blood pressure monitoring and sugar level (HbA1c) testing;
And assistance navigating preventative care options and referrals, including primary care, dental and vision services, cancer screenings, and social services.
Hear from Grameen America members and the Grameen Promotoras team about how access to health education and referrals has impacted the lives and businesses of entrepreneurs.
“Before Grameen America, I had a doctor, but I didn’t have anyone to talk to about health or wellbeing. The Grameen Promotoras provides beneficial health tips and information about preventative care and has helped refer me to health specialists and book appointments like mammograms.”
Lidoine
Coffee Shop Owner
New York, NY
“Focusing on my health helps me stay healthy enough to work. As a small business owner, Grameen Promotoras makes finding doctors easy. The Promotoras have reminded me to get regular check-ups every six months and provided referrals.”
Rebeca
Juice Shop Owner
New York, NY
“Our community often carries the weight of barriers that can make success feel out of reach. Yet, through our mission, we help open doors that once seemed closed. When members have knowledge, they can manage their businesses more effectively, and as a result, their businesses can grow. In this way, we can make a meaningful impact on their lives and their entrepreneurial success.”
Keiry
Site Manager at Grameen America
Houston, TX
“Many people in our community lack knowledge about chronic diseases and how to seek medical attention. As a Promotora, I am the bridge to helping entrepreneurs access affordable health and medical resources. What inspires me the most is that our members come from different backgrounds, but everyone shows up with drive to expand their small business while uplifting their own households.”
Luci
Community Health Worker/Educator at Grameen America
Charlotte, NC