AltaCair Foundation to host Accelerator 2025: The State of Health!

HARLINGEN, Texas – Dr. Rashmi Chandran, executive director of AltaCair Foundation, has unveiled details of Accelerator 2025: The State of Health!

It will take place at the Harlingen Convention Center on Thursday, September 4, between 8:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m.

Click here to register.

“When we talk about health, it’s about more than what happens inside medical facilities. It’s about whether people can easily get to school, find fresh and affordable groceries, access quality medical care, and have reliable transportation to connect them to it all. These everyday factors—often called the non-medical drivers of health—play a defining role in how well our communities can thrive,” Chandran said.

“Accelerator 2025: The State of Health will explore these very drivers of health—the social, economic, and environmental conditions that shape how we live, move, and thrive. It will be a powerful, one-day event.”

Chandran promised Accelerator 2025: The State of Health! will not be your average, run of the mill conference.

“It will be a high-energy, immersive experience packed with bold ideas, real stories, and hands-on learning. Whether you’re a community leader, nonprofit, educator, healthcare worker, policymaker, or concerned citizen…you belong in this room,” Chandran said.

“So, join us for an engaging in-person event where experts will discuss the latest trends and insights in the health industry. From cutting-edge technologies to innovative healthcare solutions, this event is a must-attend for anyone passionate about the future of health. Network with like-minded individuals and gain valuable knowledge that will help you stay ahead in the ever-evolving health sector. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to be part of Accelerator 2025: The State of Health!”

Chandran provided these bullet points:

Why You Should Attend?

• It’s Free! Enjoy full-day access, free lunch, networking, and resources.

• Learn from National Leaders like keynote speaker Delvecchio S. Finley, MPP, FACHE—renowned champion of health equity and former Chair of the American College of Healthcare Executives (ACHE)

• Join Candid Conversations through engaging roundtables on topics like transportation, food insecurity, behavioral health, and women’s wellness.

• Step into Another Reality with an unforgettable Poverty Simulation a hands-on, emotional experience that brings systemic barriers to life.

• Celebrate Local Heroes as we recognize EastersealsRGV and Mr. Edward Olivarez, community leaders driving change in our communities.

• Leave with Tools you can apply immediately—whether you’re organizing a neighborhood initiative or launching a wellness program. We’re here to help you connect.

Panel Preview: Who’s at the Table?

Healthcare professionals working in clinics, hospitals, and community health programs

Local government leaders shaping policies that impact daily life and access to resources

Community-based organizations and nonprofits addressing needs like food, housing, and transportation

Business and education leaders committed to building stronger, healthier communities

Simulation Experience: Walk In Their Shoes

“What would you do if you had to choose between buying food or paying rent? If you had no transportation to a job interview?” Chandran asked. “This live, facilitated poverty simulation invites you to experience what many of our neighbors live every day and reimagine how we respond as a community.”

Poverty Simulation

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And speaking of Poverty Simulation, Chandran said AltaCair coupled up with First United Methodist Church in McAllen for just such an event. She said it took place in late June and attracted over 50 community members. Here is her commentary on the event:

“On Saturday, June 28th, more than 50 community members gathered at the McAllen First United Methodist Church (FUMC) to participate in a dynamic and eye-opening Poverty Simulation hosted by the Altacair Foundation and McAllen FUMC.

“The immersive event was designed to help participants better understand the challenges faced by individuals and families living in poverty. Attendees took on fictional roles within simulated households and navigated real-life obstacles such as securing and sustaining housing, transportation, food, employment, and navigating bureaucratic systems — all within a limited timeframe and on limited resources.

“Dozens of community leaders, service providers, educators, healthcare leaders, faith-based leaders and advocates gathered this week to participate in a powerful Poverty Simulation designed to illuminate the daily struggles of families living in low-income situations. From paying rent and accessing transportation to dealing with schools, employers, and social services, the simulation offered a glimpse into the overwhelming stress towards lack of time, poverty, and systemic barriers faced by millions of Americans.

“Over the course of the 60-minute simulation, participants were challenged to make ends meet, keep their children safe, and access basic services. Many experienced evictions, missed work, or were turned away from overburdened assistance programs. While the experience was fictional, the scenarios were based on real-life stories and data.

“As one participant said: ‘The poverty simulation helped me see the complexity of everyday survival for families living on the edge. It wasn’t just about not having enough money — it was about how systems fail people again and again.’

“The event concluded with a reflective debrief led by Pastor Jon Herrin, Jamie Longoria, and Dr. Chandran, where attendees shared insights and committed to bringing a greater sense of empathy and systemic awareness to their work and communities.”

Chandran said any organization interested in bringing the Poverty Simulation to their workplace, school, or network can contact info@altacairfoundation.org or text 956-935-6667.

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