Session 1
Health outcomes are shaped not only by medical care but also by social, cultural, and linguistic factors that determine access and equity. While many practitioners are familiar with the concept of social determinants of health (SDOH), the challenge lies in applying these insights to program design, research, and everyday practice.
This workshop provides both a broad overview of SDOH and a focused discussion on cultural competence and language access. Participants will explore strategies for integrating non-clinical factors into health initiatives, gain practical tools for culturally and linguistically responsive care, and review case studies highlighting Latino-specific barriers and successes. Through a mix of discussion, applied activities, and real-world examples, attendees will leave with actionable strategies for advancing equity through SDOH-informed approaches.
Learning Objectives
By the end of this session, participants will be able to:
- Define social determinants of health and explain their impact on health outcomes.
- Recognize how cultural competence and language access influence equity in healthcare.
- Apply strategies for integrating SDOH into program design, research, or practice.
- Identify resources and tools that support culturally and linguistically responsive care.
- Analyze case studies of Latino communities to understand real-world SDOH challenges.
- Develop at least one action step for addressing SDOH in their own work.
Panelists
Stacy Carrizales
Creative Director
434 Media/ Vemos Vamos
Stacy Carrizales is a bilingual digital creator, marketing strategist, and proud San Antonio native with over seven years of experience in social media and brand storytelling. She began her journey through her Instagram handle @strawberry.stacyy, where her “come with me” videos gained attention for their approachable, community-centered style. Her platform evolved into Vemos Vamos, a multicultural brand studio.
Stacy has worked with brands like Samsung, Texas Public Radio, and the City of San Antonio, using her marketing expertise and lived experience to create authentic campaigns. She currently serves as the Creative Director of Vemos Vamos at 434 Media, where she leads bilingual content strategy and creative direction across digital platforms.
Marcos Resendez
Founder / CEO
434 Media
Marcos Resendez is the founder of 434 Media, a strategic media and brand innovation company connecting enterprise with community to drive scalable growth platforms. A U.S. Air Force veteran with over 25 years in tech, entertainment, and marketing, Marcos designs the systems and ecosystems that empower creators, brands, and communities to scale together. He also serves on the board of Alamo Angels, expanding access to capital and mentorship across Texas.
Resources
- Cameron County Public Health. Healthy Aging and Community Resources. Available at: https://www.cameroncounty.us/publichealth
- Compassion & Choices. End-of-Life Planning Resources. Available at: https://compassionandchoices.org
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Healthy Brain Initiative Road Map. Available at: https://www.cdc.gov/aging/healthybrain
- World Health Organization (WHO). (2021). Global status report on the public health response to dementia. Available at: https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/9789240033249
- National Institute on Aging (NIA). Alzheimer’s and Related Dementias Resources. Available at: https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/alzheimers
- Alzheimer’s Association. 2024 Alzheimer’s Disease Facts and Figures. Alzheimer’s & Dementia, 20(3), 611–773. https://doi.org/10.1002/alz.13711
- Vega, W. A., et al. (2021). Aging and Latino health: Social and cultural determinants. Journal of Aging & Social Policy, 33(1), 44–61. https://doi.org/10.1080/08959420.2020.1762720
- Pinquart, M., & Sörensen, S. (2022). Differences between caregivers and noncaregivers in psychological and physical health: A meta-analysis. The Gerontologist, 62(1), e1–e15. https://doi.org/10.1093/geront/gnab123