Maria's Story

Maria Schinstock’s experience taking care of her terminally ill father made her acutely aware of the lack of information and support to members of her community who were coping with chronic illnesses. She was inspired to become a promotora, a community health worker who provides health education and prevention in a manner that is culturally and linguistically appropriate.

In 2015, OMH launched Promoting Healthy Choices and Community Changes, an e-learning program in English and Spanish to develop culturally and linguistically competent messengers, advocates and educators to promote health and wellness among their peers and within their communities.