Trust is Key to Reaching Most Vulnerable with Vaccines

For those most resistant to the COVID-19 vaccine, there’s no better antidote than a trusted voice to relay accurate, scientifically-backed information. Thankfully, Neighborhood Centers provide this much needed community voice.

Since the rollout of vaccines earlier this year, our Neighborhood Centers have played a critical role in helping to vaccinate thousands of residents across San Francisco:

Felisia Thibodeaux, Executive Director of I.T. Bookman Community Center, has personally called and driven thousands of her neighbors to community sites to get vaccinated. By sharing her own experiences and being authentic with her community, Felisia has helped even the most hesitant come around. Her work has earned acclaim as a “Vaccine Shero” by San Francisco Mayor London Breed, a call from the White House, and a profile in San Francisco Gate.

The Richmond Neighborhood Center held vaccination fairs and included activities like live music to entice more community members to attend.

Booker T. Washington Community Service Center has held a series of “Fillmore, Feel Well” events that encourage testing and offer vaccinations. They’ve paired this with delicious soul food, live music, and other community health resources.

As youth vaccinations are now available, our centers will continue their work to reach all those eligible and will continue to do so in creative ways that convey trust.