SAPHA has five working committees– Advocacy; Communications; Event Planning and Professional Development; Research; and Development and Sustainability– focused on various efforts to achieve SAPHA’s vision and mission. Committees meet on a monthly basis to discuss ongoing and upcoming projects.
The Advocacy Committee collaborates with South Asian community-based organizations and national coalitions to highlight priorities of South Asian communities that directly and indirectly impact health. The committee advocates for South Asian communities through building relationships with advocacy organizations, raising awareness on integral topics, and engaging in healthcare and public health advocacy.
Responsiblities:
SAPHA’s Communications Committee strives to increase awareness and knowledge, amplify and elevate South Asian voices, and strengthen SAPHA’s national presence as a leader in South Asian health in the United States through SAPHA’s website, social media platforms, and newsletters. The Communications Committee translates South Asian research into easily digestible facts and graphics that can be used as an advocacy tool to raise awareness and inform community members with the information needed. The committee is responsible for managing SAPHA’s website, sharing relevant public health information through effective awareness campaigns, and disseminating current research in South Asian public health through SAPHA’s newsletters, Google Group, and social media outlets such as Facebook, X (Twitter), Instagram and LinkedIn.
Responsibilties:
The Event Planning and Professional Development Committee works to grow the organization, connect individuals with shared interests, provide networking, and learning opportunities for SAPHA members, and build partnerships with local and community organizations working to advance the health of South Asians in the United States (in collaboration with other committees). SAPHA is open to a broad range of students, professionals, and community members who are dedicated to enhancing the overall well-being of the South Asian community. This Committee identifies related organizations to leverage expertise and resources to carry out common objectives. In addition, SAPHA is exploring opportunities to facilitate the revival and establishment of local chapters in universities and cities across the U.S.
Responsibilties:
The Research Committee provides leadership and guidance for matters pertaining to SAPHA’s strategic vision and operations for research and development of South Asian public health. The Committee promotes research by identifying and prioritizing focus areas relevant to the health of South Asians; disseminating current and emerging evidence and best practices pertinent to improving South Asian health, and developing strategic partnerships with research coalitions and organizations with similar vision to foster SAPHA’s mission. In 2017, the Research Committee led the publication of the book, Health of South Asians in the United States. In 2020, former and current SAPHA board members wrote a practitioner’s essay, Unmasking An Invisible Community: Unique Influences On And Consequences Of COVID-19 Among South Asians In The United States.
Responsibilities:
The Development and Sustainability Committee oversees SAPHA’s development activities and leads efforts to promote SAPHA’s mission and vision through strategic sustainability goals. The Committee establishes and broadens funding streams from diverse sources, along with identifying and maintaining information on existing and potential donors.
Responsibilties:
