Post From Expert Insights
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“Back in June we did a Network Commons on navigating challenging conversations and how to use values and storytelling to guide us when we are trying to make connections across differences.”
—Ruth
“In September, we published a Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs) Case Making brief that we are using to advocate for CDFIs and their connection to health efforts.”
—Colleen
“As someone who joined the team in the summer, I spent time listening and reading a lot of the tools and resources that BHPN has developed and is developing. I was very impressed with the depth and quality of what we created in the past and the current year. I’m impressed every day by how motivated the whole team is to fight for people who cannot fight for themselves and who are in need.”
—Carmen
“I am most proud of the webinar we hosted on value-based conversations. It dug into how to navigate tough discussions and offered practical ways to build stronger connections across sectors. The goal was to spark more collaboration, belonging, and collective action, and it was a great conversation. It’s rewarding to be part of a team that can work together to meet the moment, and I continue to be impressed with my colleagues!”
—Ashley
“In April, we were able to host our first in-person convening for our Community Innovations for Racial Equity (CIRE) initiative in St. Louis. One of the organizations in the cohort, Beyond Housing, co-hosted the event with us and were incredible partners (if you’re reading this, thank you again Rosa and Erica!).”
—Kevin
“In September, BHPN partnered with Community Connexor to support an in-person convening in Nashville, TN that focused on The Big Bold Bourdeaux (3BV) community-led initiative. As someone who lives in Nashville, I was excited to learn more about the project and connect with leaders on the ground in my local community.”
—Alexis
“There is so much that BHPN has accomplished this year that makes me proud and grateful to be a part of this time! All of our work with our Community Innovations for Racial Equity (CIRE) initiative and especially our in person convening in St. Louis stands out as something I am especially proud of.”
—Christina
We are excited to welcome our brand new team member, Rafa! Here’s what he had to say about our tools and resources:
“Even though I just joined the team, I was immediately impressed by the range of tools and resources BHPN has developed. Among them, MeasureUp really stood out. It brings together stories, data sources, and practical guidance in a way that makes understanding and communicating impact feel approachable. It showcases the depth and intention behind the work here.”
—Rafa
“I really enjoyed working with the project team and partners on this one. Kevin (Leacock) did a great job holding us accountable to think deeply about what we would include.”
“The webinar just felt different- so many people joined, lots of engagement in the chat. I had a strong feeling of solidarity, being in a space with so many people looking to make connections and be more effective communicators.”
—Ruth
“I believe CDFIs are powerful allies for public health and the healthcare sector and essential first responders, capable of building long-term community wealth. I found it incredibly rewarding to partner with my colleague, Ashley Hernandez, and various partner organizations, which reaffirmed my conviction that deep collaboration is imperative for creating truly impactful resources.”
—Colleen
“It gave me a deeper understanding and appreciation for the mission and impact of BHPN. It has been very rewarding to support such a thoughtful and caring team.”
—Carmen
“I always enjoy organizing a Network Commons because it requires a full team effort! It’s energizing to collaborate as a group. Personally, I love forming meaningful connections with people, and that often means leaning into tough conversations. Hearing from speakers about how to approach those moments with curiosity and creativity gave me new ways to find common ground and build stronger connections.”
—Ashley
“For me, not many things can replicate the energy of being in person. It was meaningful to me that the group gave themselves to the experience and I felt like we were able to build a stronger relationship because of our time together in person. We talked about our work, ourselves and just had a good time.”
—Kevin
“As someone who has worked primarily remotely for a few years, it felt good to connect with leaders in-person who are prioritizing racial and health equity. Oftentimes, you may not know what’s going on in your own backyard, and I felt the connections I made were meaningful, and the room was filled with great energy and bold ideas. It was a powerful moment.”
—Alexis
“In my role as Finance & Ops Manager, I play a more behind the scenes role in the work that we do so hearing about the work that our CIRE partners are doing puts things in perspective – the work we do is meaningful and I am grateful to be a part of it.”
—Christina
“MeasureUp is meaningful because it helps connect lived experience with the data we use to describe change. It recognizes the people behind the numbers while giving organizations a clearer way to understand what their work is creating. It supports better conversations, stronger partnerships, and a deeper sense of purpose in the work we do.”
—Rafa
“Getting to air our new strategic plan is exciting! Second, I love meeting with partners and colleagues in person. I’m aiming to have more coffee shop conversations. So if you are in or visiting San Francisco or the Bay Area, hit me up!”
—Ruth
“There are a lot of things, but what really lights me up is our plan to deepen our work around climate and health. We’ll be exploring how to bring different sectors together to navigate the increasing frequency of climate-driven disasters, especially since we know these events impact historically marginalized communities the most.”
“Beyond the work itself, I’m genuinely looking forward to connecting with colleagues in person. There is an incredible energy and wellspring of hope that comes from seeing old and new partners doing inspiring work across the country—it’s a powerful, tangible reminder of why we do what we do.”
—Colleen
“I am very excited to see how our impact in 2026 will deepen and to watch both our existing and new projects take shape. I’m looking forward to supporting the work that truly makes a difference in people’s lives.”
—Carmen
“In 2025, we’ve focused on lifting up multisector partnerships that center community vision and priorities, including offering tools that support community-driven data and learning. I’m excited to keep building on this work and explore how it connects with other key areas of our efforts.”
—Ashley
“I’m excited for a lot. Mostly, I’m excited to respond. 2025 was a difficult year for people that care. To me, it felt like there were so many cuts and just overall negativity to react to. I’m looking forward to having a chance to take all that we learned this year and create a response, along with other sectors and partners to develop movements and energy that call forward visions for a future where our most vulnerable populations are seen and cared for.”
—Kevin
“I’m excited for a lot of things! The BHPN team fuels my excitement, and we really have the best team! I’m looking forward to deepening my partnership with our CIRE partners to amplify their work on our communications platform. Second, I’m excited about the climate and values-based conversation campaigns we are working on. Oh, and I can’t wait to be with the team in-person again!”
—Alexis
“I’m excited to continue the work we do and see what new opportunities to expand upon our work await us! The start of a new year always feels like new possibilities to me and I know there is so much we can accomplish.”
—Christina
“In 2026 I am excited to grow as part of the BHPN team, building new relationships and contributing to work that matters. I look forward to learning, gaining momentum, and being part of projects that create meaningful impact.”
—Rafa
