On January 24, leaders, advocates, and community members gathered at the Riverfront Conference Center for Pathways to Equity, an event dedicated to advancing racial and social equity in Flint and Genesee County.  

The Community Foundation of Greater Flint (CFGF), in collaboration with the Greater Flint Taskforce on Racial and Social Equity, Truth, Racial Healing, and Transformation, and the Social Determinants of Health Solutions Lab, hosted the event, which brought together individuals and organizations committed to building a healthier, more equitable community.   

CFGF President & CEO Dan Kildee gives opening remarks. Photo: Jessica Hatter Photography

“Pathways to Equity reminds us that the pursuit of equity is a journey we all share,” said Community Foundation President & CEO Dan Kildee in his opening remarks. “In this community, we appreciate the power of collaboration and understand the importance of uniting our efforts to create meaningful change.” 

The event was sponsored by CFGF, the Greater Flint Health Coalition, Genesee Health Plan, and Michigan State University’s Charles Stewart Mott Department of Public Health.  

Dr. Kent Key introduces participants to the concept of social determinants of health. Photo: Jessica Hatter Photography

Exploring Social Determinants of Health 

Dr. Kent Key's presentation, Exploring the Foundations of Social Determinants of Health, gave attendees a deep dive into the factors that shape health outcomes. 

In the presentation, Dr. Key emphasized how a community engagement framework is essential to establishing health equity.  

“If we’re going to really address social determinants of health, we must have authentic partnerships where things are co-developed, co-created, co-supported, not only by directional learning but omnidirectional learning,” said Dr. Key.  

Panels offered space for open dialogue with the audience. Photo: Jessica Hatter Photography

Collaborative Growth and Community-Led Solutions

Dr. Key also moderated a panel discussion, Collaboration in Action: Unlocking Opportunities for Collective Growth, featuring Moses Bingham, Sue Peters, and Nichole Smith. Panelists discussed their initiatives and the intersections of their work.  

Panelist Moses Bingham, Director of Strategic Initiatives at the Community Foundation of Greater Flint, explained how community-driven approaches like the Greater Flint Taskforce on Racial and Social Equity are key to finding solutions.  

“I think the best thing that we can do is listen and show up,” said Director of Strategic Initiatives Moses Bingham. “We have to listen to the people who are the most proximate to problems because they have the solutions—and that’s how we should focus our efforts today.” 

Kay Doerr presents From Policy to Action: Operationalizing Health in All Policies for Sustainable Health Outcomes. Photo: Jessica Hatter Photography

Breakout sessions provided space for targeted discussions. Connecting to Care: Helping Providers Access Mental Health Resources and SDOH Solutions in Genesee County focused on mental health resources and social determinants of health solutions in Genesee County, while Community-Led Solutions: Collaborative Approaches to Local Challenges highlighted efforts by the Greater Flint Taskforce on Racial and Social Equity. Another session, From Policy to Action: Operationalizing Health in All Policies for Sustainable Health Outcomes, examined ways to operationalize health policies across sectors. 

Panelists discuss the intersection of criminal justice involvement and positive health outcomes in Pathways to a Blueprint for Peace. Photo: Jessica Hatter Photography

Addressing Justice and Health Equity 

The final plenary session, Pathways to a Blueprint for Peace, moderated by Dr. Jennifer Johnson, explored the intersection of criminal justice involvement and health outcomes. Featuring experts such as Dr. Paul Elam, Percy Glover, Jay Snodgrass, Tia Coles, and Theresa Roach, the discussion provided insights and actionable strategies for fostering healthier, more equitable communities.

CFGF Executive Vice President & COO David McGhee, CFGF President & CEO Dan Kildee, Michigan Senator John Cherry, and 2nd District County Commissioner Charles Winfrey.  Photo: Jessica Hatter Photography

Commitment to Equity and Collective Action 

Following the event, interested participants engaged in racial healing circles as part of a Truth, Racial Healing, and Transformation Framework. The open dialogue allowed participants to share their stories and promote understanding and acceptance. 

CFGF’s commitment to co-creating an equitable community was evident throughout the day.  

“Achieving equity requires commitment from all sectors—healthcare, education, business, faith, philanthropy, and government—to work together with purpose and determination,” Kildee emphasized. “Pathways to Equity is not just about exchanging ideas; it’s about committing to collective action.” 

View more photos by Jessica Hatter Photography below.