Community strength is built by investing in the people who make our neighborhoods thrive. Read how staff from the Senate HELP Committee and Big Cities Health Coalition visited Martha’s Table to learn how our partnership with DC Health addresses health disparities for Black men by empowering Community Influencers to engage neighbors and break down barriers to care and close gaps in life expectancy. 

Strengthening Community Health Through Peer Leadership

On September 3, Martha’s Table hosted staff members from the office of the Ranking Member of the Senate HELP Committee, along with leaders from the Big Cities Health Coalition, DC Health, and the Mayor’s Office. This visit provided a valuable platform to highlight our partnership with DC Health and demonstrate how local solutions drive meaningful, lasting change for families in Washington, DC.

During the visit, our Men’s Health Community Influencers demonstrated how neighborhood leadership connects men to vital medical care, raises health awareness, and unlocks opportunities for long-term well-being across their community. 

Rooting Health Resources in the Community

Focusing on men’s physical and mental well-being creates strong families and strong communities. Chronic conditions like high blood pressure, heart disease, asthma, prostate cancer, and HIV disproportionately impact Black men, especially East of the River. Addressing these challenges requires compassionate, accessible health resources rooted in the community.

In June 2025, Martha’s Table partnered with the DC Department of Health to launch the Men’s Health Community Influencers program. This pilot initiative trains local leaders to share clear health information, conduct outreach, and connect residents with lifesaving screenings for hypertension and heart disease.

To establish deep community trust, Martha’s Table selected 10 alumni from our District Dads fatherhood program to serve as health influencers. As trusted neighborhood leaders with deep roots in the community, these men are uniquely positioned to bridge the gap between residents and vital health care resources.

By equipping District Dads alumni as peer leaders, the program addresses cultural needs through familiar, trusted voices. These influencers create comfortable, welcoming spaces that encourage men to talk openly about their physical and mental health, foster authentic connections across their neighborhoods, and ensure health resources resonate and create lasting engagement.

“Our District Dads program provides a dedicated space for fathers to connect, support each other, and challenge outdated narratives. By equipping our alumni as Men’s Health Community Influencers, we ensure the message hits home. When health advice comes from trusted neighbors, friends, and family, we can build a stronger future together.” Matthew Miller, District Dads Program Coordinator

A National Model for Replication

The success of community-led programs like District Dads shows that programs work best when we support neighborhood leaders. Combining peer leadership with strong partnerships creates long-lasting health benefits for everyone. The Men’s Health Influencer program illustrates how community strength and collaboration can serve as a national example for supporting strong communities.

“We were delighted to host staff members from the office of the Ranking Member of the Senate HELP Committee, along with leaders from the Big Cities Health Coalition and DC Health, to showcase the expertise and impact of our local community influencers. This visit demonstrated that when we invest in local leadership, we create a model of excellence and build lasting, positive change for all.” Douglas Ireland, Chief Program Officer

Get Involved With District Dads

Join an Upcoming Cohort: Are you a father or male caregiver living in Ward 8 (ZIP codes 20020 or 20032), ready to strengthen your parenting skills, prioritize emotional wellness, and connect with a supportive brotherhood? Discover more about our 17-week District Dads program and register for upcoming cohorts.

Invest in DC Families: Support community-led programming that uplifts fathers and nurtures strong family bonds. Consider making a gift to Martha’s Table to celebrate the strong fathers of Ward 8. 

Connect with Our Team: Have questions, want to partner, or interested in supporting our events? Reach out to District Dads Program Coordinator Matt Miller at mmiller@marthastable.org.