Our Mission

Our mission is to cultivate a stronger and healthier community by establishing vital partnerships with Black L.A. residents facing memory issues. Through the formation of an equity-based Community Advisory Board, we are dedicated to educating, empowering, and providing essential services while conducting rigorous research on brain aging that is grounded in community partnership. By fostering collaborative efforts, we aspire to pave the way for enhanced cognitive health, advocacy, and overall well-being within our community.

OUR VALUES

  1. Fostering Community Engagement and Collaboration: We are committed to cultivating a sense of community among all stakeholders to co-design educational initiatives and research. Through open dialogue, inclusive practices grounded in Community Based Participatory Research, and collaborative decision-making, we will create a space where diverse voices are heard, respected, and valued. We believe that a vibrant and engaged community leads to the co-creation of knowledge and innovative solutions.
  • Building Trust and Integrity: Trust is the foundation upon which relationships thrive and meaningful progress is made. We prioritize transparency, honesty, and ethical conduct in all our actions. By consistently upholding high standards of integrity, we strive to build trust not only within our organization but also with the communities we serve. Trust is essential for effective collaboration and sustained impact.
  • Cultivating Meaningful Relationships: Relationships are at the heart of our mission. We recognize the power of authentic connections in driving positive change. We are dedicated to nurturing genuine relationships with our partners, educators, researchers, students, and the broader community. By understanding and respecting each individual’s unique perspectives and aspirations, we aim to create a supportive and empowering environment.
  • Enhancing Educational Initiatives: Our educational initiatives are designed to promote wellness, critical thinking, creativity, and lifelong learning. We strive to create inclusive programs that empowers folks from all walks of life, fostering a sense of belonging and encouraging continuous growth. Our approach emphasizes personal and community health. 
  • Advancing Research with Social Impact: Research is a powerful tool for societal progress. We commit to conducting impactful research that addresses pressing societal challenges. We will engage in interdisciplinary collaboration, leverage cutting-edge methodologies, and disseminate our findings widely. Our research endeavors aim to influence policies, practices, and mindsets, contributing to a more equitable and sustainable world.

OUR VISION

  • To create a future where brain health disparities are eliminated, and Black Angelenos age with dignity, enjoy cognitive health, and access to resources.
  • To build a diverse team of community members whose collective expertise drives innovation in research and recruitment. Additionally, we seek to provide support and development opportunities to foster strong relationships within our community. 
  • To convene individuals who will help in the design, oversight, and execution of ongoing research.
  • To build a brain aging cohort that is equitable and ethical in its collection and analysis, from beginning to end.
  • A society where all community members receive compassionate, culturally competent care and have equal access to quality services for improved health outcomes.
  • Community Based Participatory Research
    • Community Based Participatory Research, or CBPR, is a research approach that is grounded in equity. CBPR is community directed and community based rather than community placed.
  • At the Deters Lab, our research will be grounded in partnering with and for the community to share ownership, advocate for change, and enhance knowledge, skills, and trust for residents, organizations, and researchers. One of the ways we will achieve this is through the formation of a Community Advisory Board.
  • Community Advisory Boards or CABs are a group of community members who come together to voice the priorities, concerns, and knowledge with researchers who co-formulate research projects.