SC CTSI Community Engagement

Mission: The Community Engagement (CE) core group at the Southern California Clinical and Translational Science Institute (SC CTSI) at the University of Southern California serves as a bridge between academic researchers and local communities, establishing sustainable partnerships to ensure research initiatives effectively address the genuine needs of the community.

IN THIS ISSUE:

• A Message from the Team
• Project Dulce
• Follow Us on Social Media
• Resources

• Nutrition Tips for a Healthier Lifestyle
• Inspirational Quotes

A Message from the Team

Project Dulce

Project Dulce is a comprehensive diabetes education program designed to serve culturally diverse communities. Our aim is to provide diabetes management services, education, and support in a community-based setting, helping participants take control of their health and well-being.

The program consists of five classes, each lasting 1.5 hours, held over five weeks. During these sessions, participants will learn key strategies to manage diabetes and improve their quality of life.

Who Can Participate?

Anyone living with diabetes or at risk of developing it (prediabetes).

What Does Project Dulce Cover?

• Diabetes management and monitoring
• Nutrition
• Physical activity
• Medication management
• Self-care and lifestyle

Why Should You Participate?

Gain practical tools to manage diabetes and improve your health. Learn to control blood sugar levels, prevent complications, and reduce medication use. This accredited program has a proven track record of success in the community.

How Can You Participate?

If you're interested in joining, it's easy! Simply reach out to Natayla Seals by sending an email to Natayla.Seals@med.usc.edu. We'll get in touch with you to provide details about schedules and locations!

Follow Us on Social Media

Want to learn more about the work we are doing in the community? Follow us to stay updated!

@usc.ctsi.community

Resources

South Los Angeles Free Produce Distribution

Frequency: Fourth Thursday of every month

Hours: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM

Address: 123 W. Manchester Blvd. Inglewood, 90301

Feed LA

Frequency: First and third Tuesday of every month

Hours: 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM

Address: 4301 W 3rd Street, Los Angeles, CA 90020

It's Bigger Than Us

Frequency: Every Friday

Hours: 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM

Address: 6920 S Western Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90047

Nutrition Tips for a Healthier Lifestyle

• Eat a variety of protein sources: Include lean meats, seafood, eggs, beans, and nuts in your diet. Plant-based proteins like beans and lentils are heart-healthy, high in fiber, and can lower cholesterol levels.

• Choose healthier snacks: Swap out processed snacks like chips and candy for healthier options like fruits, nuts, yogurt, or whole-grain crackers. Healthy snacks provide lasting energy and help keep blood sugar levels stable.

• Limit processed and red meats: Processed meats (like bacon and hot dogs) and red meats can be high in unhealthy fats and sodium. Choose fish or plant-based proteins instead to help lower your risk of chronic diseases.

• Practice mindful eating: Pay attention to portion sizes and listen to your hunger cues. Eating slowly and savoring your meals can help prevent overeating and improve digestion.



Inspirational Quotes

"Your present circumstances don’t determine where you can go; they merely determine where you start." – Nido Qubein

"Dreams are lovely. But they are just dreams. Fleeting, ephemeral, pretty. But dreams do not come true just because you dream them. It’s hard work that makes things happen. It’s hard work that creates change." – Shonda Rhimes

"Do not wait for someone else to come and speak for you. It's you who can change the world." – Malala Yousafzai

Questions?

Natayla Seals

Community Outreach Coordinator

Community Engagement, SC CTSI

(323) 447-7905

Natayla.Seals@med.usc.edu

Would you like to subscribe to our community newsletter in Spanish?

Contact Mayra Rubio-Diaz at mayrarub@med.usc.edu.