Black Men’s Health Clinic - BMHC

11/23/2025

Pancreatic cancer is one of the deadliest forms of cancer, often called a silent disease because symptoms rarely appear until it’s advanced. It accounts for about 3% of all cancers in the U.S. but causes 7% of all cancer deaths — one of the highest mortality rates of any major cancer.

Did you know?
▸Black Americans are 30–50% more likely to be diagnosed with pancreatic cancer than white Americans.
▸Black men, in particular, face the highest incidence and mortality rates—largely due to delayed diagnosis and unequal access to specialized care.
▸Early detection dramatically improves outcomes, but only 12% of cases are found at an early stage.

At the Black Men’s Health Clinic®, we’re committed to breaking these barriers.
Through our Care Network™, we help connect men of color and their families to:
✅ Preventive screenings and education
✅ Nutritional and lifestyle support
✅ Trusted, culturally grounded care

💪 Knowledge saves lives. Awareness drives action.
This month, let’s uplift the message that early detection and equitable access to care are key to improving outcomes for all.

🔗 Learn more: blackmenshealthclinic.org

11/16/2025

Across the U.S., more than 500,000 people experience homelessness on any given night, and 1 in 8 households struggle with food insecurity. In Central Texas, those numbers continue to rise—especially among men of color, veterans, and families facing systemic barriers to care.

🍎 Why It Matters:
Hunger and housing are not just social issues—they are health issues.
Unstable housing increases the risk of chronic illness, mental health challenges, and limited access to preventive care.

💙 BMHC’s Commitment:
At the Black Men’s Health Clinic®, we see the connection between health and home every day.
Through our programs, partnerships, and outreach efforts, we connect individuals and families to:
✅ Supportive housing resources
✅ Food assistance programs
✅ Mental health and case management support
✅ Preventive healthcare and wellness education

✨ When we address basic needs, we build stronger, healthier communities.
Let’s work together to create a future where everyone has the opportunity to live well and thrive.

🔗 Learn more or get connected: blackmenshealthclinic.org

11/15/2025

SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT: BMHC Extends a Warm Welcome to New BMHC Board Member

The Black Men's Health Clinic® (BMHC) Board of Directors is excited to announce the appointment of CMSgt Ret.) Luis Reyes to the BMHC Board of Directors where he will bring valuable insight on Technology, Security & Modernization and additionally serve on BMHC’s Customer and Product Development Board Advisory Committee where many of our new client, partners, team functioning innovations, and IT solutions take place.

Chief Master Sergeant (Ret.) Luis Reyes is a decorated U.S. Air Force veteran and a proven senior executive leader with over 26 years of service and leadership across global infrastructure, cyber operations, and enterprise modernization programs. He currently serves as a Senior Information Management Project Manager and Site Lead for Namauu Technological & Industrial, managing a $9M contract supporting the $5.2B rebuild of Tyndall Air Force Base’s communications infrastructure. In this capacity, he directs 22 personnel and multiple subcontractors, oversees critical IT/telecom projects, and advises stakeholders on resilient, mission-ready solutions.

Chief Reyes began his military career in 1997 as a Communications and Computer Systems Operator, responsible for the day-to-day operation of the Air Force’s early computer and radio networks. In this position, he managed the hardware and connections that kept aircraft, ground teams, and command centers communicating, similar to an information-technology technician who keeps an organization’s entire communication system running safely and continuously.

He was later promoted to Cyber Systems Operations Non-Commissioned Officer in Charge at a Cyber Command, which oversees the digital systems that connect installations worldwide. In that role, he supervised teams responsible for protecting classified data and preventing cyberattacks, comparable to leading a major corporation’s cybersecurity division charged with safeguarding all internal and external networks.

During overseas operations, Reyes served as Communications Flight Chief for an expeditionary unit in Southwest Asia, where he directed mobile communications and satellite support for deployed forces. This meant building and maintaining networks in remote, high-risk environments so pilots, medics, and commanders could coordinate missions in real time, much like setting up a city’s emergency communications network from the ground up under constant pressure.

BMHC is excited to welcome CMSgt (Ret.) Luis Reyes to the BMHC Board of Directors, and we look forward to the professional and esteemed experience he brings to the organization.

Read the full announcement HERE: https://lnkd.in/gE79TAfK

11/14/2025

✨ BMHC is proud to share an opportunity that directly supports the next generation of Central Texans. Seedling is seeking caring adults to mentor local students who have an incarcerated parent-- offering stability, encouragement, and a supportive presence during the school day.

Just 30-45 minutes once a week can make a life-changing difference. No special background is needed, and full training and support are provided.

Mentoring has been shown to increase resilience, boost confidence, and give students the steady relationship they need to thrive. Seedling mentors meet students on campus during lunch, building trust and connection through conversation, creativity, and consistency.

This is one of the most meaningful ways to invest in our youth and strengthen the future of our community.

🌱 Learn more or apply to become a mentor: https://www.seedlingmentors.org/mentor/

11/14/2025

World Diabetes Day | November 14

Theme 2025: Access to Diabetes Care – If Not Now, When?

The Reality:
Over 37 million Americans live with diabetes.
Black adults are nearly twice as likely to be diagnosed compared to white adults.

For Black men, barriers to preventive care, affordable medications, and culturally competent support continue to drive health inequities.

💡 Why It Matters:
Diabetes doesn’t just affect blood sugar—it impacts the heart, kidneys, eyes, and mental well-being. But with early detection, lifestyle support, and consistent care, it’s possible to live a long, healthy life.

How BMHC Helps:
The Black Men’s Health Clinic® connects men of color and their families to:
✅ Free diabetes screenings and prevention education
✅ Nutrition and fitness resources
✅ Culturally grounded care through our Care Network™

This World Diabetes Day, take charge of your health.

🔗 Learn more: blackmenshealthclinic.org

11/13/2025

💓 Join Us for Vitals & Vibes!

This Sunday, the Black Leaders Collective (BLC) Health Issue Group and community partners will bring the community together for Vitals & Vibes—a day centered on wellness, connection, and collective care for Austin families. BLC continues to lead meaningful, community-driven efforts that strengthen health and opportunity across our city.

As a long-time partner in this shared work, BMHC is proud to support BLC’s vision and contribute to a space that uplifts and empowers our community. Our team will be on-site to offer resources, schedule appointments, and help residents connect to preventive care in a way that feels accessible and trusted.

📅 Sunday, November 16
🕛 12 – 3 p.m.
📍 People’s Choice | 7804 Cameron Rd, Suite E, Austin, TX 78752

11/13/2025

BMHC recently participated in Wheless Lane Church of Christ's Annual Community Fun Day event to reach their fellowship's demographics, which mostly consist of African American and Hispanic ethnic groups who fall within lower social-economic households and have increased health risk status.

The event organizers recognized that their Black men don’t often visit health care facilities or take their health status as seriously as needed. So, they invited the Black Men's Health Clinic to participate.

During this event, BMHC's Outreach Engagement Specialist and Healthy Lifestyles Coach, Kiounis Williams, led a BMHC Movement is Medicine exercise demonstration.

At the BMHC table, Steve Kemgang, our Community Health Worker and Clinical Contributors Lead, and BMHC intern Mateo Vallejo handed out helpful health resources, enrolled individuals into care, and scheduled appointments at the clinic. BMHC connected face-to-face with community members and shared information about the affordable care and support BMHC provides year-round.

By participating in events like this, BMHC continues its mission to reach families where they live, work, play, and pray to help ensure that everyone has access to the care and information they need to thrive.

Be sure to stay tuned to this BMHC Newsletter to stay informed about upcoming health fairs, free resources, and family-friendly activities happening near you.

11/13/2025

Don’t miss the presentation by BMHC Founder & CEO Larry Wallace Sr., as he talks about the various health systems he’s had the honor of serving in and expanding DEI efforts of service; along with how the Black Men’s Health Clinic - BMHC is designed to stand in the gap.

We’re honored to welcome Dr. Larry Wallace as one of the featured speakers at the 2025 NFBPA Central Texas Leadership Summit! 🎉

A U.S. Army Vietnam Veteran and visionary healthcare leader, Dr. Wallace brings decades of experience improving access and equity in community health. As Founder and CEO of the Black Men’s Health Clinic, he continues a lifelong mission to build integrated care systems that strengthen underserved communities. His leadership has transformed healthcare delivery through innovation, collaboration, and a deep commitment to service.

Join us November 13th–14th as we explore “A Blueprint for Excellence: Crafting Leaders, Cultivating Change.”

Real change begins when you’re part of the conversation.

11/12/2025

Funding for High School Grads! Deadline: January 2nd

Calling Central Texas high school seniors pursuing a degree in healthcare! 📣

St. David’s Foundation is now accepting applications for the Neal Kocurek Scholarship program. As the largest healthcare scholarship in Texas, students can receive funding and guidance throughout their academic journey.

In addition to financial support, Kocurek Scholars have access to a range of emotional and educational resources, including free mental health counseling, tutoring options, professional mentorship, and a close-knit community of peers.

High school seniors from Bastrop, Caldwell, Hays, Travis, and Williamson counties who want to pursue careers in healthcare and plan to attend college in Texas are eligible to apply.

The deadline to apply is January 2, 2026.

A Message from the Donors:
“At St. David’s Foundation, we know that investing in the next generation of healthcare professionals isn’t just about financial aid; it’s about creating real opportunities for students who have the passion and potential to transform their communities.” - Julian Huerta, VP of Community Programs

At BMHC, we are proud to share opportunities that empower the next generation of healthcare professionals, especially those who want to make a difference in their community. By sharing, we aim to help Central Texas students access the education, mentorship, and support they need to pursue meaningful careers in healthcare.

By investing in our youth, we are strengthening the pipeline of diverse, community-minded healthcare professionals.

Learn more about eligibility requirements and begin the application process here: https://stdavidsfoundation.org/how-we-work/neal-kocurek-scholarship/

11/11/2025

Veterans Day | Honoring Those Who Served

Today, we pause to honor the brave men and women who have served in our nation’s Armed Forces. Your courage, sacrifice, and commitment to protecting our freedoms will never be forgotten.

At the Black Men’s Health Clinic (BMHC), we stand with our veterans and their families—not just in words, but in action. We recognize that service doesn’t end when the uniform comes off, and we are here to walk alongside you in every chapter that follows.

If you or a loved one ever need support navigating physical health, behavioral health, or the social challenges that impact well-being—BMHC is here to help. Our team is committed to serving as your care coordinator and navigator, connecting you with trusted resources, services, and community-based supports designed to honor the service you’ve given by ensuring you’re never left behind.

To all who have served and continue to serve: we see you, we thank you, and we are here for you.

11/10/2025

Now more than ever, people need access to resources and necessities—food, shelter, and safety are at the top of everyday needs. In light of the threat, reduction, or unavailability of SNAP benefits due to the government shutdown, people are worried about their ability to access food.
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BMHC cares about the needs of our community. Sharing resources is a part of caring. Here are two critical food resources that have been provided by our Care Network partner, CommUnityCare, and provided by the Central Texas Food Bank to help fulfill needs and ease concerns about food.

Please click on the links below to see and download the various locations and dates to get food for you, your family, friends, and loved ones.

COMMUNITYCARE HEALTH CENTERS - A BMHC Care Network Partner
ENGLISH - SNAP Emergency Response - List of Food and Other Resources: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1P96TXTjpQ8KRSAo5cpD9djtTVbQP1I0N/view
ESPAÑOL - SNAP Respuesta de Emergencia - Lista de Alimentos y Otros Recursos: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1w8MUzYh6q23OfzAYQMcVCPqiXWgzgQjP/view

CENTRAL TEXAS FOOD BANK
Mobile Food Pantry Calendar and Locations: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1g2w1NcWcwNQchNJSpFDSGeBXqh5pcInH/view
Calendario y ubicaciones de despensas móviles de alimentos: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1g2w1NcWcwNQchNJSpFDSGeBXqh5pcInH/view

BMHC—Care You Can Trust

11/09/2025

November is Lung Cancer Awareness Month 💨

Lung cancer remains the leading cause of cancer deaths in the United States—claiming more lives each year than breast, prostate, and colon cancers combined.

While overall lung cancer rates are declining thanks to advances in screening and treatment, Black men continue to experience higher mortality rates than any other group, despite smoking less on average. These disparities stem from delayed diagnoses, unequal access to screenings, and historic inequities in healthcare.

Since its designation in 1990, Lung Cancer Awareness Month has focused on breaking stigma, promoting early detection, and increasing access to life-saving care.

At the Black Men’s Health Clinic®, we’re working to close that gap. Through our Care Network™, we connect individuals to lung cancer screenings, smoking cessation programs, and culturally grounded education that empower communities to take charge of their health.

💙 Early detection saves lives—and every breath matters.
Learn more or schedule an appointment at blackmenshealthclinic.org