Shanell Williamson - Community Outreach Worker

01/18/2026

Since June 2025, Southeast Mississippi Rural Health Initiative, Inc. (SEMRHI) has sponsored a monthly Senior Wellness Day. This free event is thoughtfully designed for adults ages 65 and older. During the two-hour program, seniors participate in health screenings, informative health presentations, and enjoy their favorite bingo games. The Mississippi SHINE Project also provided fresh vegetables to attendees. Witnessing the joy and smiles on their faces as they enter the room, especially when they win a bingo game, is truly priceless.

Senior wellness is important because it helps older adults maintain their health, independence, and quality of life as they age. Focusing on wellness supports not only physical health, but also mental, emotional, and encouraging seniors to stay active, informed, and connected within their communities.

01/14/2026

Georgia Pacific Sisters in the Brotherhood, Carpenters Local Union 2086, held their monthly meeting in Taylorsville, MS. During the meeting, I provided blood pressure checks and shared health awareness information with the attendees. I emphasized the importance of maintaining good health and practicing germ safety during these winter months.
Mississippi SHINE Project Southeast Mississippi Rural Health Initiative, Inc.

01/10/2026

Men often hesitate to show vulnerability, but delaying medical care or withholding important health information from their providers can have serious, even life-threatening—consequences.

Today, Tyrone's Razor Sharp Barbershop, I had the opportunity to provide health screenings and connect with men right where they are. Statistics show that men are less likely than women to visit the doctor, which makes recognizing and addressing “silent symptoms”, such as those linked to prediabetes and other chronic conditions, even more critical. Early detection and proactive care truly save lives.

To ALL men: Your lifespan is the last thing you want cut short by skipping simple, much-needed health tests. Listen to your body, know your numbers, and take action before small issues become big ones. Your health is worth the check.

Mississippi SHINE Project Southeast Mississippi Rural Health Initiative, Inc.

01/06/2026

It was a steady, successful day at the Simpson County School District (SCSD) Faculty and Staff Health Fair 2026 in Magee, MS! 🎉 More than 250 faculty and staff members engaged with community vendors dedicated to promoting mental, nutritional, physical, and financial wellness.

Kudos to Tammy Layton with the MSU Extension Service for providing a delightful taste test of Black-Eyed Pea Soup with Collard Greens and Sausage. The soup was absolutely delicious and thoroughly enjoyed by everyone!

The energy was high, the resources were impactful, and the support for SCSD employees was truly amazing. This successful health fair left everyone feeling informed, empowered, and ready to take on a new year of serving students!

Mississippi SHINE Project Southeast Mississippi Rural Health Initiative, Inc.

01/05/2026

The Southern Regional Public Safety Institute (SRPSI) Police Academy, located at Camp Shelby, Mississippi, began its first Basic Law Enforcement Training class of Fiscal Year 2026 on Sunday, January 4, 2026. I presented on key health topics, including diabetes and hypertension. Although Class 2026-01 reported few existing health concerns, nearly all participants expressed interest in learning their health numbers and participated in blood pressure and glucose screenings. The class was also appreciative of the health education pamphlets, hand sanitizer, and Liquid IV packets that were distributed.

Mississippi SHINE Project Southeast Mississippi Rural Health Initiative, Inc.

12/22/2025

✨ Awesome job, Damionh Jones! ✨

Congratulations on hosting The Inaugural Actively Prime Night of Elegance! 👏🏽
It was truly an unforgettable night, beautifully celebrating elegance, joy, and our amazing seniors. From the atmosphere to the smiles on every face, the event reflected class, purpose, and heartfelt appreciation for our elders.

Thank you for creating such a meaningful and memorable experience—this night will be talked about for a long time to come! 🖤✨

12/22/2025

✨ What a night to remember! ✨

The Actively Prime Seniors truly danced the night away in style and grace!

Damionh Jones, Personal Trainer, hosted the Inaugural Actively Prime Night of Elegance, and it was absolutely beautiful. A total of 175 seniors graced the evening in stunning gowns and sharp suits, enjoying live entertainment, heartfelt reflections, and delicious food.

It was such a joy to see the smiles light up their faces as they entered the building. I was honored to provide personal care bags, and Janine Harges with WellCare added a fun touch by distributing clacker fans.

An unforgettable night celebrating elegance, joy, and our amazing seniors! 🖤

Mississippi SHINE Project Southeast Mississippi Rural Health Initiative, Inc.

12/22/2025

On Saturday, I had the privilege of participating in Mt. Beulah MB Church’s We Care Ministry “The Word Is Life” Feeding the Community event. Covington County residents enjoyed a day filled with fellowship and free hot meals. The youth were especially blessed, receiving Christmas gifts, school supplies, and clothing. It was truly a meaningful day of service, love, and giving back to the community. 💙🙏

Mississippi SHINE Project Southeast Mississippi Rural Health Initiative, Inc.

11/25/2025

HERE Housing: Economic Resources & Education 🩷🎉

A pair of Laurel residents were recipients of a disaster assistance grant provided by the Federal Home Loan Bank of Dallas in partnership with PriorityOne Bank of Collins due to

11/22/2025

🌟 Blessings of Love Mentoring Program - A Table For All: Community Thanksgiving Dinner 🌟

What an amazing day! Today, I had the privilege of attending the annual A Table For All: Community Thanksgiving Dinner, hosted by Blessings Of Love Mentoring Program. Over 250 participants were blessed with a free hot meal, and the spirit of community was felt by all. It was such a great event!

In addition to the delicious food, the event also featured Mississippi SHINE Project offering health screenings, promoting wellness in the community and JDC Save The Children, who distributed books to kids, helping to spread the joy of reading and learning.

What a beautiful way to support the community! This event was truly a celebration of community, care, and connection.🧡

11/21/2025

Knowing the risks can help save lives!

A few mindful choices: watching your blood pressure, staying smoke-free, and knowing your family history, can safeguard the life you’re building and the people you love.