African American Reach and Teach Health Ministry

What African American Reach and Teach Health Ministry does

African American Reach and Teach Health Ministry (AARTH) is a faith-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit founded in 2002 in Seattle, Washington, by Rev. Mary Diggs Hobson and her son Reginald Diggs to address HIV/AIDS and chronic health conditions disproportionately affecting people of African descent. The organization delivers free, culturally responsive health education across King County to African American seniors, family caregivers, LGBTQ+ Black seniors, and broader community members, using evidence-based curricula (Stanford Self-Management Resource Center's CDSMP and DSMP), peer-led workshops, Community Navigators, and Lay Leaders, and a portfolio that spans Movement & Wellness, Brain & Memory Health, Chronic Disease Support, Caregiver & Family Support, HIV Education, and LGBTQ+ Support. Programs are delivered in-person at Black churches, senior centers, and libraries and virtually via Zoom, with a YouTube replay library and downloadable resources extending reach beyond live sessions.

The business model is nonprofit and donation- and grant-funded: charitable donations (PayPal), institutional grants from King County, Seattle Human Services, Public Health, Aging and Disability Services, and other funders, and fundraiser events such as annual brunches. All programs and services are provided free of charge to community members. AARTH operates with a lean team of approximately 1-10 staff plus consultants and is supported by 20+ community and healthcare partnerships (including Comagine, UW Medicine, Fred Hutch Cancer Center, Odessa Brown / Seattle Children's, POCAAN, GenPride, Providence ElderPlace, and Sound Generations). Technology infrastructure is non-proprietary, built on Zoom, standard social media platforms (Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, YouTube), an email newsletter system, and a website-based resource hub. Current leadership under Executive Director Shelia D. Braxton, who succeeded founder Mary Diggs Hobson via Kathleen Wilcox, has broadened programming beyond the original HIV focus into senior aging, brain health, caregiver support, and LGBTQ+ health.

Name

African American Reach and Teach Health Ministry

Legal name

African American Reach and Teach Health Ministry

Website

https://aarth.org

Company type

Private

Founded year

2002

Operating status

Operating

Headcount range

1–10 employees

Short description

AARTH is a Seattle-based faith-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit founded in 2002 that delivers free, culturally responsive health education to African American seniors, caregivers, families, and LGBTQ+ communities across King County, Washington, using peer-led workshops, faith-based partnerships, and evidence-based curricula.

Ownership category

akta.pro rank

Product category

Community Health Education Services

NAICS

Social Assistance (624), Health Care and Social Assistance (62), Educational Support Services (611710)

SIC

Services-Misc Health & Allied Services, Nec (8090), Services-Social Services (8300), Services-Educational Services (8200)

akta.pro primary industry

Health Promotion & Public Health Education (Community Workshops) (EDAAAFAG)

akta.pro secondary industries

Community Health, Prevention & Health Education (BPAGACAC), Caregiver Support, Coaching & Training (HLADALAG), Health, Wellness & Lifestyle Noncredit Programs (EDAAAEAH)

Keywords

• Community health education
• Faith-based nonprofit
• HIV prevention programs
• Chronic disease management
• Health equity advocacy

Headquarters

HQ city

Seattle

HQ country

United States

HQ region

North America

Offices3 records

Markets served

GTM type

B2C

Offering type

Services

Cost components

Personnel, Operations, Marketing or Sales, Technology or R&D, Others

Revenue model

1. Donations: AARTH accepts charitable donations through PayPal to support free health education and wellness programs for the community. Donations fund workshops, events, outreach materials, and operational costs.
2. Grant Funding: AARTH receives grant funding from government and foundation sources including King County, Seattle Human Services, Public Health, Aging and Disability Services, and other institutional funders to support community-based health initiatives and programming.
3. Fundraiser Events: AARTH hosts annual fundraiser events including fundraiser brunches to generate community support and financial contributions. These events celebrate the organization's legacy while raising funds for ongoing programming.

Go-to-market motion3 records

Distribution channels5 records

Marketing channels9 records

Core offering

AARTH (African Americans Reach and Teach Health Ministry) is a faith-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit that delivers culturally responsive health education and wellness programs for African American seniors, caregivers, families, and LGBTQ+ communities in King County, Washington. Core offerings include HIV education and prevention training, chronic disease self-management workshops (Stanford CDSMP/DSMP curricula), caregiver and family support, movement and brain health classes, and community navigation services. All programs are provided free of charge and delivered through churches, community centers, libraries, and virtual Zoom sessions by peer Lay Leaders and Community Navigators.

Product overview

AARTH (African Americans Reach and Teach Health Ministry) is a nonprofit community health organization offering a portfolio of health education programs and community services. The organization provides four core program areas: Community Health Education & Awareness, Healthy Lifestyle Classes, HIV Education & Training, and Peer Education & Support. These core programs are delivered through various workshops and services including Movement & Wellness, Brain & Memory Health, Chronic Disease Support, Caregiver & Family Support, and LGBTQ+ Support. AARTH also hosts regular community events and workshops. All programs are designed to be culturally responsive and community-centered, serving African American seniors, caregivers, families, and LGBTQ+ communities across King County, Seattle, WA.

Differentiator

Problem solved

Functional benefit

Products and services

• Community Health Education & Awareness Community-centered education that raises awareness, builds knowledge, and empowers people to make informed health decisions. Includes Naloxone training, Hands Only CPR, caregiver support, and healthy aging workshops for African American seniors, caregivers, and families in King County.
• Healthy Lifestyle Classes Classes and resources focused on nutrition, movement, brain health, and sustainable habits for healthy aging. Includes Chronic Disease Self-Management Program (CDSMP), Diabetes Self-Management Program (DSMP), cooking classes, Bingocize, and Lunch & Learn sessions.
• HIV Education & Training Culturally relevant HIV education, prevention tools, and training designed to reduce stigma and save lives. Includes HIV 101 community workshops, faith-based HIV conversations, HIV prevention and testing awareness, and healthcare provider cultural competency training.
• Peer Education & Support Peer-led programs that build trust, encourage open dialogue, and empower community members to educate and support one another. Includes Chronic Disease Self-Management Workshops and Diabetes Self-Management Workshops facilitated by Lay Leaders.
• Movement & Wellness Guided workshops that help seniors stay active, improve balance, and build strength. Includes in-person and virtual sessions focused on mobility, strength, flexibility, and fall prevention with video replays available.
• Brain & Memory Health Engaging workshops and guided activities focused on keeping the mind active and sharp, including sessions on Alzheimer's and Parkinson's awareness and support. Includes brain-healthy habits education and caregiver support.
• Chronic Disease Support Hands-on workshops designed to help manage conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, Parkinson's, arthritis, Alzheimer's, and HIV/AIDS. Includes Movement Is Medicine series, self-management workshops, caregiver education, and nutrition education.
• Caregiver & Family Support Workshops and resources designed to help caregivers navigate the challenges of caring for a loved one. Includes practical strategies, emotional support, resource navigation, and self-care guidance.
• LGBTQ+ Support Inclusive workshops and resources that address the unique health needs of LGBTQ+ individuals, creating safe spaces to learn, connect, and access support around HIV prevention, mental wellness, and healthcare navigation.
• Events & Workshops Regular workshops and community events including Soul Line Dancing, Bingocize, Money Management, Soulful Cooking with Chef Adunni, Prostate Cancer Workshop, Brain Health, Narcan & CPR Training, Dealing with Grief, Decluttering, Parkinson's Disease Workshop, and Medicare Open Enrollment Support.

Quantifiable outcome

• 91% of participants report feeling more confident managing their health after attending AARTH programs
• +4 more outcomes

Named customers2 records

Segments5 records

Ideal customer profiles4 records

Technology focussed No

API detail

Has API

No

API docs

API detail

Core technology

AI maturity

App detail

Partnerships

30 partnerships are on record, tiered core, strategic and supporting.

• King CountycoreGTM or Marketing PartnerKing County supports community-based health initiatives that promote equity, access, and wellbeing across diverse populations. Their investment strengthens AARTH's ability to deliver culturally responsive programs to seniors, caregivers, and families.
• Seattle Human ServicescoreGTM or Marketing PartnerSeattle Human Services works to ensure all residents have access to essential services promoting stability, dignity, and opportunity. Their partnership helps expand AARTH's outreach and community-based health education efforts.
• Public HealthcoreGTM or Marketing PartnerPublic Health plays a critical role in protecting and improving community health through prevention, education, and access to care. Their collaboration supports AARTH's mission to reduce health disparities and increase awareness.
• Aging and Disability ServicescoreGTM or Marketing PartnerAging and Disability Services connects older adults, caregivers, and people with disabilities to essential resources promoting independence and quality of life. Their support enhances AARTH's work with seniors and caregiver communities.
• ComaginestrategicStrategic or Co-development PartnerComagine partners with community organizations to strengthen healthcare systems and improve quality outcomes. Their collaboration helps advance AARTH's commitment to evidence-based programs and equitable health solutions.
• Community Living ConnectionscoreGTM or Marketing PartnerCommunity Living Connections provides coordinated access to services helping older adults and caregivers navigate complex health and social systems. Their partnership helps AARTH ensure no community member feels isolated or unsupported.
• Northwest Kidney CenterssupportingGTM or Marketing PartnerPartner organization supporting kidney health education and resources for community members.
• Taste Tutor, LLC (Chef Adunni)coreGTM or Marketing PartnerChef Adunni provides Soulful Cooking demonstrations featuring heart-healthy takes on Southern cuisine, supporting AARTH's nutrition and healthy lifestyle programming with culturally relevant cooking education.
• Neighborhood HousesupportingGTM or Marketing PartnerCommunity partner providing resources and support for community health initiatives.
• POCAANcoreGTM or Marketing PartnerPOCAAN provides mobile medical services, HIV support, behavioral health services, and HOPWA housing support for BIPOC communities. Active collaborator at AARTH health fairs and community events.
• GenPridecoreGTM or Marketing PartnerGenPride provides Pride Place LGBTQ+ senior housing and supports LGBTQIA+ older adults with housing assistance and community connection services.
• Alzheimer's AssociationsupportingGTM or Marketing PartnerProvides 24/7 helpline, local support groups, and care planning resources for dementia and memory loss support referenced in AARTH's brain health programming.
• Fred Hutch Cancer CenterstrategicGTM or Marketing PartnerFeatured vendor at AARTH's Annual Health Fair 2025, providing cancer education, prevention resources, and health screening information to community members.
• Odessa Brown Children's Clinic / Seattle Children's HospitalstrategicStrategic or Co-development PartnerProvided opioid and CPR training to AARTH community members, teaching overdose response, naloxone administration, and life-saving skills.
• HumanasupportingGTM or Marketing PartnerHealthcare partner providing Medicare and health insurance education resources and support for seniors.
• CMS (Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services)supportingGTM or Marketing PartnerFederal partner supporting Medicare education and healthcare coverage information for seniors and eligible community members.
• Mahagony Circle of HopesupportingGTM or Marketing PartnerCommunity partner organization supporting health equity initiatives and community wellness.
• COMPANISsupportingGTM or Marketing PartnerCommunity partner supporting health education and wellness programming.
• African Community Housing & DevelopmentsupportingGTM or Marketing PartnerSupports housing stability and community development for African communities, complementing AARTH's health education mission.
• Sound GenerationscoreGTM or Marketing PartnerProvides Hyde Shuttle, volunteer drivers, and transportation services for adults 55+ and disabled adults, supporting AARTH's senior community.
• Providence ElderPlacecoreGTM or Marketing PartnerProvides comprehensive healthcare services for seniors, offering programming and resources that complement AARTH's senior health education.
• Cierra SisterssupportingGTM or Marketing PartnerBreast health support organization providing education and resources for women of color.
• Unity Fellowship Seattle – Senior OutreachcoreGTM or Marketing PartnerFaith-based organization providing senior outreach and spiritual support, aligning with AARTH's LGBTQ+ and senior programming.
• UW MedicinestrategicStrategic or Co-development PartnerUW Medicine Memory and Brain Wellness Center provides specialty care, diagnostics, and community education referenced in AARTH's brain health resources.
• Rocket Community FitnesssupportingGTM or Marketing PartnerCommunity fitness partner supporting movement and wellness programming for seniors.
• Community Health CaresupportingGTM or Marketing PartnerFederally Qualified Health Center providing healthcare services and resources for the community.
• The CentralsupportingGTM or Marketing PartnerCommunity partner organization supporting health and wellness initiatives.
• VCBynum Arts & EducationsupportingGTM or Marketing PartnerArts and education partner supporting cultural programming and community engagement.
• NEW BEGINNINGSsupportingGTM or Marketing PartnerCommunity partner organization supporting new initiatives and community wellness programs.
• King County MetrosupportingGTM or Marketing PartnerTransportation partner providing information on reduced-fare programs including Senior Bus Pass, Disability Bus Pass, and Subsidized Annual Pass for eligible riders.

Scale indicators11 records

Recent moves6 records

Expansion highlights6 records

Regional players

• Neighborhood House: Multi-service community organization serving King County immigrants, refugees, and low-income residents with health, education, and social services. Comparable as a community-based service provider addressing health and social needs in the same region.
• Sound Generations: Regional aging services organization providing Hyde Shuttle transportation, meals, and support for adults 55+ and disabled adults in King County. Direct AARTH partner serving overlapping senior populations.

Emerging players

• Black Health Trust (formerly Black Health Coalition): Organizations focused on improving Black community health outcomes through advocacy and education. Conceptually similar to AARTH in targeting health disparities affecting African American populations.
• Mahogany Circle of Hope: Community partner organization supporting health equity initiatives for diverse populations. Listed as AARTH partner with comparable community-based health education focus.

Direct peers

• African Community Housing & Development: Supports housing stability and community development for African communities in the Seattle area. Comparable as a community-based nonprofit serving African diaspora populations with social support services.
• GenPride: Provides LGBTQIA+ senior housing, community connection, and support services in Seattle. Overlapping mission with AARTH's LGBTQ+ senior programming, making it a close peer in both population and service model.
• Cierra Sisters: Breast health support organization providing education and resources for women of color in the Seattle area. Directly comparable as a community-led health education nonprofit serving African American residents with culturally responsive programming.
• POCAAN: People of Color Against AIDS Network provides mobile medical services, HIV support, behavioral health, and HOPWA housing for BIPOC communities in Seattle. Active AARTH collaborator at health fairs and the most directly comparable peer in mission and population served.
• Lifelong AIDS Alliance: Seattle-based HIV/AIDS service organization providing prevention, care, and housing support. Highly comparable given AARTH's HIV education focus and that AARTH advisor Rev. Dr. Renee McCoy previously directed Lifelong's prevention programs.

Broad incumbents

• Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center: Major cancer research and care institution that participates in AARTH's Annual Health Fair and provides cancer education and screening resources. Comparable as a larger institutional player addressing health in the same community.

Market position

Strengths5 records

Weaknesses5 records

Competitive moat4 records

Key risks6 records

Key highlights6 records

Customer concentration

• YouTubeyoutube.com/channel/UCqxFFNbTcX5O0cgMkFgbF-w
• Facebookfacebook.com/aarthorg
• LinkedInlinkedin.com/company/african-american-reach-&-teach-health-ministry/?viewAsMember=true
• Instagraminstagram.com/aarthministry206

Revenue estimate

Valuation estimate

Number of profiles

Profiles10 records

Funding overview

Funding rounds

Investors

Funding detail is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →

M&A

Investments

M&A and investment is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →

Frequently asked questions about African American Reach and Teach Health Ministry