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community engagement

News

What matters to you? Talk to LAist in your neighborhood

by Rachel Morgan News Editor
written by Rachel Morgan News Editor

LAist is expanding its community engagement efforts by holding in-person events across Southern California. The initiative aims to gather insights from residents and shape future news coverage.

How it works

In December and January, LAist visited Altadena multiple times to speak with residents about recovery efforts following the Eaton Fire. Dozens of residents participated in conversations, and resources – including a guide to SoCal Edison’s payout plan – were shared. These discussions directly influenced coverage of the fire’s one-year anniversary.

At these events, held at locations like Altadena’s Fair Oaks Burger, participants were offered fries, coffee, or swag in exchange for their time and insights.

Did You Know? LAist offered participants at Altadena’s Fair Oaks Burger fries, coffee, or swag as a thank you for sharing their experiences.

Where to find LAist next

LAist plans to hold events in Santa Ana and Inglewood in the coming months. The organization is also open to suggestions for other locations. Businesses or organizations interested in hosting an event can contact LAist at [email protected].

More information about the community engagement team’s work and upcoming events can be found at LAist.com/community.

Expert Insight: Direct community engagement is a crucial step for any news organization seeking to build trust and ensure its reporting accurately reflects the needs and concerns of the people it serves. By actively soliciting feedback and incorporating local perspectives, LAist is demonstrating a commitment to responsible journalism.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is LAist holding these events?

Connecting with communities is part of LAist’s mission to ensure its coverage reflects the perspectives, priorities, and lived experiences of its audience.

Where did LAist hold events in late 2025 and early 2026?

LAist held events in Altadena at Fair Oaks Burger.

How can a local business or organization request a visit from LAist?

Interested parties can send an email request to [email protected].

What role do you think local news organizations should play in community engagement?

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Health

Comparative analysis of the use of Community Health Workers while deploying the Attractive Targeted Sugar Bait (ATSB) for malaria control in Western Province, Zambia | Malaria Journal

by Chief Editor
written by Chief Editor

The Future of Community Health: Trends and Transformations

As a seasoned healthcare journalist, I’ve spent years tracking the evolution of community health. The references provided paint a picture of a sector brimming with innovation and poised for significant growth. From malaria control to broader public health initiatives, community health workers (CHWs) are playing an increasingly critical role. Let’s delve into the emerging trends shaping the future of this essential field.

The Expanding Role of Community Health Workers

The data consistently highlight the indispensable contribution of CHWs. Studies across Africa, including those in Zambia and Uganda (References 8, 16), demonstrate their effectiveness in treating common illnesses and supporting disease prevention efforts. CHWs are no longer just delivering basic care; they’re becoming integral to complex health programs, from HIV testing and treatment (Reference 16) to malaria surveillance (References 10, 17).

Key Trend: The scope of CHW responsibilities will continue to broaden, encompassing mental health support, chronic disease management, and maternal and child health. This expansion necessitates enhanced training and ongoing professional development, a critical aspect emphasized by the WHO (Reference 23).

Pro Tip: Investing in comprehensive training programs, including digital literacy and data collection, is vital for empowering CHWs to meet the evolving needs of their communities.

Leveraging Technology for Enhanced Impact

Mobile health (mHealth) is revolutionizing how CHWs operate. The use of smartphones and other digital tools facilitates data collection, improves communication, and enables real-time monitoring of health outcomes (Reference 34). Furthermore, the deployment of geospatial analysis, as demonstrated in Sierra Leone (Reference 12), helps optimize CHW deployment, ensuring resources reach the areas of greatest need.

Key Trend: We will see a significant rise in the integration of technology, including artificial intelligence (AI) for diagnostics and predictive analytics. This will allow for more personalized care and improved disease surveillance.

Did you know? AI-powered diagnostic tools can help CHWs identify diseases more accurately and quickly, leading to faster treatment.

Focus on Community-Based Interventions and Data-Driven Decisions

The emphasis on localized interventions is growing. The success of programs like attractive targeted sugar baits in malaria control (References 19, 20, 36, 37) highlights the importance of tailored strategies, driven by community acceptance and local context. Data plays an essential role in guiding these interventions. Analyzing performance determinants of CHWs, as exemplified by studies in Kenya (Reference 15), allows for data-driven adjustments that boost program efficacy.

Key Trend: The increasing use of data analytics to understand social determinants of health and develop proactive, preventative interventions. This shift will bring more focus on health promotion and disease prevention.

Strengthening CHW Systems: Challenges and Solutions

The path forward is not without challenges. Sustaining CHW programs requires addressing issues related to motivation, compensation, and support (References 1, 29). The development of clear incentive guidelines and community-based volunteer contracts (References 4, 21, 22) is a crucial step. Furthermore, ensuring continuous supply of essential commodities, such as malaria diagnostics and treatments, is critical (Reference 33).

Key Trend: Governments and healthcare organizations will need to prioritize sustainable financing models, standardized training, and ongoing supervision to empower and retain CHWs.

The Future of Community Health in Zambia and Beyond

Zambia serves as a compelling case study for the global trend. The country’s National Community Health Strategy and Operational Plan (References 5, 13) reflects a commitment to strengthening community health systems. However, as research also suggests, understanding and navigating political and policy landscapes remain crucial (Reference 6, 11). Lessons learned from Zambia’s experiences, including the role of women in vector control (Reference 24), can be applied to broader contexts.

Key Trend: A global shift toward integrating community health with primary healthcare systems. This integration is essential for achieving universal health coverage.

FAQ: Key Questions About the Future of Community Health

What are the main benefits of community health workers?

CHWs bridge the gap between healthcare systems and communities, improving access to care, promoting health education, and facilitating early disease detection and treatment.

How is technology changing community health?

mHealth tools, geospatial analysis, and AI are enhancing data collection, improving communication, enabling remote monitoring, and personalizing care.

What are the main challenges facing community health programs?

Ensuring adequate training, sustainable financing, motivation, and continuous supply of resources are critical challenges that need to be addressed.

What role will data play in the future of community health?

Data will drive evidence-based decision-making, enabling more targeted interventions, improved resource allocation, and better evaluation of program effectiveness.

The evolution of community health is an ongoing story. By understanding these trends, stakeholders can prepare for a future where CHWs play an even more pivotal role in improving health outcomes for all.

What are your thoughts on the future of community health? Share your perspectives in the comments below! Want to stay informed about the latest developments in this field? Subscribe to our newsletter for regular updates and in-depth analysis.

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World

Lasaco Assurance Celebrates Children’s Day 2025: School Visits & Youth Empowerment

by Chief Editor
written by Chief Editor

Lasaco Assurance: A Glimpse into the Future of Corporate Social Responsibility in Education

Lasaco Assurance Plc’s recent Children’s Day initiatives, highlighted by their impactful school visits across Nigeria, offer a compelling view into the evolving landscape of corporate social responsibility (CSR). But what does this mean for the future? Let’s delve into potential trends and how companies like Lasaco can continue to make a difference.

Beyond Handouts: The Rise of Holistic Educational Support

The article showcases Lasaco’s commitment to providing educational materials. While important, future trends suggest a shift towards more holistic support. This includes not just providing physical resources but also investing in teacher training, mentorship programs, and digital learning tools. Consider the success of programs like the UNICEF education initiatives in Nigeria, which focus on teacher development and curriculum reform alongside resource provision. These types of comprehensive programs yield greater and more sustained impact.

Pro Tip: Companies should consider partnerships with educational technology firms to integrate innovative learning solutions into their CSR strategies, such as personalized learning platforms and virtual reality experiences.

Data-Driven Impact and Measurable Outcomes

Moving forward, CSR initiatives will be judged by their measurable impact. Organizations will need to track the outcomes of their investments in education with greater precision. This involves collecting data on student performance, teacher effectiveness, and community engagement. This data can be used to refine programs and demonstrate real value. Companies like Lasaco will need to establish key performance indicators (KPIs) to assess the effectiveness of their investments. This could include tracking improvement in standardized test scores, student attendance rates, and teacher retention.

Did you know? According to a 2023 report by the Global Partnership for Education, investing in quality education can significantly boost a country’s GDP and improve social mobility.

Community Collaboration and Stakeholder Engagement

Successful CSR programs are built on strong community collaboration. Instead of merely dictating initiatives, companies should engage local communities, schools, and teachers in the planning and implementation phases. This ensures that the programs are relevant and meet the specific needs of the beneficiaries. This approach also fosters a sense of ownership and encourages long-term sustainability. The article mentions partnerships, which are a core part of community collaboration.

Focus on Future Skills and Workforce Development

The future of work is rapidly changing, and CSR initiatives in education need to align with these shifts. This means incorporating skills like digital literacy, coding, critical thinking, and entrepreneurial skills into the curriculum. Investing in vocational training programs and partnerships with tech companies can help prepare students for the future. This could involve providing coding workshops, robotics clubs, and business skills training. The goal is to empower young people with the skills they need to succeed in the modern economy.

Sustainability and Long-Term Commitment

True impact comes from sustained effort. A one-off donation may generate headlines, but long-term, strategic partnerships yield more meaningful results. Lasaco, with its decades-long presence, is well-positioned for sustainable initiatives. Organizations must develop long-term plans, allocate resources consistently, and build relationships with educational institutions and community partners. This fosters trust and ensures that the programs continue to benefit future generations.

The Role of Technology in Scaling Impact

Technology plays a crucial role in enhancing the reach and impact of CSR initiatives in education. Digital learning platforms, online resources, and virtual classrooms can extend the benefits of education to a wider audience, including those in remote areas. The use of data analytics can help personalize learning experiences and identify areas where students need additional support. Lasaco can leverage these technological advancements to optimize its CSR investments and maximize its impact.

FAQ Section:

Q: What are some examples of effective CSR in education?
A: Programs that provide educational resources, teacher training, mentorship, and scholarships. It also needs to include vocational training programs.

Q: How can companies measure the impact of their CSR initiatives?
A: By tracking student performance, attendance rates, and community engagement metrics. It also requires the setting up of key performance indicators (KPIs).

Q: Why is collaboration important for CSR in education?
A: Collaboration ensures that programs are relevant to local needs and fosters a sense of ownership, leading to long-term sustainability.

Q: What are the future trends in CSR for education?
A: The rise of holistic educational support, data-driven impact, community collaboration, and the focus on future skills.

Q: How can companies make their CSR activities more impactful?
A: By establishing long-term plans and ensuring they align with national development goals.

Q: How can technology be incorporated into CSR efforts in education?
A: Through digital learning platforms, online resources, virtual classrooms, and data analytics to personalize learning experiences.

Q: What is an example of CSR?
A: It can be a number of things: investing in education, such as providing educational materials, teacher training, mentorship, and scholarships, but also ensuring long-term plans are in place.

Q: What are the three components of CSR?
A: The three components of CSR are: economic, environmental, and social.

Q: What is a CSR approach?
A: A CSR approach is a strategic and long-term commitment to addressing social and environmental issues while contributing to business success.

Q: Why is CSR more important today?
A: CSR is more important today because of societal and environmental pressures, and the growing demands of consumers and employees.

Call to Action:

What innovative educational initiatives do you think businesses can adopt? Share your thoughts and ideas in the comments below! Also, explore our related articles on CSR and community development, and subscribe to our newsletter for the latest insights and analysis.

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Business

Art, identity and AI: A powerful evening celebrating Black History Month

by Chief Editor
written by Chief Editor

The Intersection of Art, Identity, and AI: A Look at Future Trends

As highlighted by the recent Black History Month presentation at the Arlo DC Hotel, the intersection of art, identity, and artificial intelligence (AI) holds transformative potential for both artists and the broader cultural landscape. This fusion is not just a trend; it’s a shift that could redefine creative expression.

Artistic Identity in the Age of AI

The incorporation of AI in art raises essential discussions about authenticity and identity, particularly for Black artists. Clarence James, with his surrealist portrayals, challenged attendees to consider AI’s role in shaping and sometimes challenging cultural narratives. This example propels into a broader conversation about how artists navigate technology while staying true to their unique perspectives.

Recent studies suggest that AI will increasingly be used to analyze and even create art, offering new tools for artists. This could democratize art-making, but also poses concerns about the preservation of cultural and personal identity in artworks created or influenced by algorithms.

AI’s Impact on Creative Industries

AI’s influence extends beyond individual artists to entire creative industries. Platforms using AI for curation, like Adobe’s Sensei, offer novel ways to discover and engage with art. A recent survey found that 65% of art institutions see AI as an opportunity to expand their reach and engagement with audiences.

Yet, there’s a balance to strike, mirrored in James’ call for caution. As AI tools lower entry barriers, concerns arise about originality. Art historian Dr. Maria Schneider notes that while AI can assist in creating art, “it lacks the fundamental human experience that shapes truly impactful art.”

Prospects for Future Innovation

Innovators like Halim Flowers exemplify how personal history can inform and inspire art that challenges societal narratives. Looking forward, AI could help uncover and amplify marginalized voices in art history, unraveling stories that have been left out.

Case studies such as MIT’s Media Lab indicate that AI could reinvent how historical art is experienced. By using AI to create interactive virtual exhibitions, these technologies can make art more accessible and engaging for global audiences.

Community Engagement and Cultural Change

The Arlo DC event underlined art’s role as a unifier, fostering community dialogue. Future trends might focus on using AI-driven platforms for real-time art discussions and collaborative projects. Initiatives like the Angel City Light Brigade show how AI-led events can attract diverse crowds and encourage cultural conversations.

As AI helps curate and promote cultural events, it may become a vital tool for cultural preservation and promotion, ensuring that diverse communities continue to shape the narrative.

FAQs on Art, Identity, and AI

  • How will AI impact the job market for artists? AI provides tools to enhance creativity but also introduces challenges in maintaining job roles. The future may see a shift towards hybrid roles combining artistic skills with technological knowledge.
  • Can AI truly understand cultural context in art? While AI can simulate artistic styles, it lacks the experiential context. Human oversight remains crucial to ensure cultural sensitivity and relevance in AI-generated art.

Join the Conversation
What are your thoughts on how AI could reshape the future of art? Comment below or explore more discussions on our site about the intersection of technology and culture.

Did you know? The first artwork sold as an NFT (non-fungible token) took the art world by surprise, demonstrating how technology intersects with art markets.

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