What We Do
Our Programs and Services that honor the heritage, dignity, and well-being of Black elders.
At Baobab, we’re dedicated to supporting the health and well-being of Black seniors in BC. Our goal is to create a safe, supportive, and culturally sensitive environment that fosters community and connection.
Research, Advocacy & Policy Change
We are committed to advocating for policy reforms that tackle the unique challenges facing Black seniors. The lack of data on Black seniors is a significant issue, as it allows disparities to go unnoticed and unresolved. At Baobab Black Seniors Care and Centre, we are working to address this gap by advocating for disaggregated data to highlight the unique challenges Black seniors face. We are also convening elders to share their experiences and realities, ensuring their voices are at the forefront of the conversation. This approach drives our push for policies that rectify systemic inequalities and truly empower Black seniors in British Columbia.
Culturally Competent Care
Respecting the rich traditions and cultural practices of Black seniors, we offer holistic care. Whether in healthcare or social services, we provide services that affirm their cultural identity and life experiences hence ensuring that Black Senior’s dignity is at the heart of everything we do.
Education & Empowerment
At Baobab, we are actively working to address the underrepresentation of Black healthcare professionals in caregiving and support roles, recognizing it as a primary factor in ensuring culturally competent care. Our advocacy for upstream initiatives aims to increase the pipeline of diverse professionals in healthcare, fostering trust and creating services that better align with the needs of Black seniors. Our goal is to design programs to help Black seniors, their families access to resources and healthcare providers better understand the importance of culturally competent care and the need to address systemic disparities. Together, these efforts strive to build a future where healthcare systems more accurately reflect and respectfully serve the diverse communities they aim to support.
Holistic Community Support
At the heart of Afrocentric (Black Collective) values, we understand that Black seniors cannot thrive in isolation. That’s why we prioritize their social, mental, and overall community well-being. Through holistic initiatives focused on food security, affordable housing, mental health support, and programs designed for connection, we ensure our elders are not only supported and cherished but also remain integral to a healthy, vibrant, and interconnected community.
Why It Matters
Black seniors face significant and unique challenges due to historical and ongoing systemic discrimination. From inequities in healthcare to social isolation, these challenges often hinder the ability of Black Seniors to lead dignified lives and prolong their life expectancy. Baobab Black Seniors Care Society exists to bridge these gaps to celebrate the contributions of Black elders while dismantling barriers that undermine their success and well-being.
By fostering a culturally enriched, Afrocentric (Black Collective) environment, we honor Black elders and their legacy, recognizing them as invaluable custodians of wisdom and culture. These elders are the forerunners who have paved the way for us, making ultimate sacrifices and enduring hardships so that future generations could thrive. We celebrate their strength and resilience, ensuring their contributions continue to inspire and guide us. In our work, we advocate for a society that supports Black elders with the respect and resources they truly deserve.