November 2024  |  Issue No. 31

Mr. Abdulaziz Kamus Shares Insights as a Workforce Capacity Partner

In previous editions, we shared stories of people who took part in the Workforce Capacity Program and their journeys to pursue jobs in health care. In this issue, a Program partner, Mr. Abdulaziz Kamus, Senior Clinical Manager at MCC Medical Clinic was interviewed and asked to share his thoughts of the Program.

The Pulse:  What is your impression of the Workforce Capacity Program?

Mr. Kamus: The Workforce Capacity Program has been transformative for both participants and the community. It bridges the gap between untapped talent and workforce needs, providing participants with essential skills for entry-level healthcare positions. The program empowers individuals by offering training and opportunities for personal and professional growth, enabling them to take significant steps toward career stability.

Meet Hillery Tsumba

In anticipation of next month's virtual viewing link for our storytelling show, we are featuring the Primary Care Coalition's Chief Operating Officer and 2024 storyteller Hillery Tsumba. Read more to find out about her path at PCC and how her background influences her work. Stay tuned for next month's storytelling link to see her onstage and find out her secret superpower.

 

Telling Tales that Connect: A Storytelling Success!

The PCC's 2024 Storytelling Show was not just an event; it was a heartfelt celebration of community and connection! With six inspiring voices sharing their experiences and insights, attendees were treated to a side not before seen of those who influence Montgomery County's safety net system. From the insightful stories of Hillery Tsumba and Council Member Gabe Albornoz to the passionate narratives of Edwin Rich and Dr. Cesar Palacios, each participant brought their unique perspective to the stage. The event used the power of storytelling to exemplify PCC's commitment to fostering collaboration and enhancing community engagement. Thank you to all our storytellers and to our sponsors: Alfa Specialty Pharmacy, CareFirst, and NIH Federal Credit Union. We can't wait to share more of these incredible stories in our next issue, so stay tuned for the full scoop in next month’s issue!

 

Tuesday, December 3rd, is Giving Tuesday

Please support the important safety net work that happens in our community by supporting local nonprofit organizations this Giving Tuesday, including PCC. This work has never been easy, and it will likely get harder in the coming years. It has also never been more important to create systems that support everyone in living their healthiest lives. 

Practice Self Care To Reduce Stress

Everyone experiences the stress of managing work, home, and family, but this month’s presidential election boosted stress levels across the board, and the upcoming holidays pose additional difficulties for many. Since stress affects physical and mental health, be sure to take time to practice self-care and find ways to relax and recharge.

Avoid distractions and prioritize the things you value most. Try to attain at least 150 minutes of physical activity weekly and maintain a healthy routine with adequate sleep. Limit your use of technology as much as possible, prioritize spending time with friends and family, and engage in fun and relaxing activities and hobbies.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention offers more information on healthy ways to cope with stress. If the stress feels overwhelming and you need someone to talk to, the Montgomery County Crisis Center is staffed around the clock at 240-777-4000.

November 30, 10:30 a.m.–12:00 p.m., English Conversation Group for adults, meets Saturdays in Multi-Purpose Room #132, no registration required. Wheaton Library, 11701 Georgia Ave., Wheaton, MD 20902.

November 30, 10:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m. Play Date at the Library, a drop-in social time for children up to age five and their caregivers. Olney Library, 3500 Olney Laytonsville Rd., Olney, MD 20832.

December 1, 1-6 p.m., Chess at the Rockville Memorial Library. Players of all skill levels and age ranges are welcome to play against others of similar skill and age. Rockville Memorial Library, 21 Maryland Ave., Rockville, MD 20850.

December 7, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., the 45th Holiday Craft Show at Bauer will feature original art, photography, jewelry, candles, woodwork, and crafts. Food vendors will be on site. Free parking will be available. The event will be held at Bauer Drive Community Recreation Center, 14625 Bauer Dr., Rockville, MD 20853.

Now open through January 5, The Garden of Lights, Brookside Gardens, 1800 Glenallan Ave., Wheaton, MD 20902. Tickets, $10 per person (children under five are free) available only online.

Montgomery Parks offers year-round indoor tennis centers in Bethesda and Wheaton, along with 300 outdoor courts. Reserve an indoor court or sign up for lessons at the Pauline Betz Addie Tennis Center, 7801 Democracy Blvd, Bethesda, MD 20817, or the Wheaton Indoor Tennis Center, 11715 Orebaugh Ave., Wheaton, MD 20902.

 
 

Job Opportunities

Bilingual Behavioral Health Care Manager (Full-Time)

Bilingual Community Resource Coordinator (Full-Time)

Director of Specialty Care Programs (Full-Time)

Director, Behavioral Health Strategy (Full-Time)

 
 

Meet November's Pet of the Month: Bebo!

Meet November’s Pet of PCC, Bebo! Bebo brings joy and laughter to his dog-mom, Leslie Graham, PCC President & CEO. As a rescued mixed-breed, his family affectionately calls him their spare-parts dog. He has the face of a Bernese mountain dog, the body of a Border Collie, the massive feet of a Clydesdale, and a feather for a tail. When not twisting himself into humorous pretzel shapes on the living room rug, Bebo can be found cruising the many shops of Bethesda that give out dog treats.

 

A copy of our current financial statement is available upon request by contacting:

8757 Georgia Ave 10th Floor| Silver Spring, MD 20910
Question? Email us at stephanie_narayanan@primarycarecoalition.org or call 301-628-3456

Documents and information submitted to the State of Maryland under the Maryland Charitable Solicitations Act are available from the Office of the Secretary.

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