Build 2 Lead Recognized for Transforming Lives of South King County Youth

Build 2 Lead (B2L) is at the forefront of providing youth of color the tools they need to change systems and build skills for the future. Formed during COVID-19 as health disparities widened in our region and across the country–B2L set the goal of creating non-traditional pathways specifically for BIPOC youth through programs and partnerships.

B2L's partnership with Virginia Mason Franciscan Health (VMFH) also began at the start of the pandemic and has been instrumental in creating diverse pathways for youth in health care and making inroads to reducing health disparities and improving patient outcomes.

“They are a phenomenal partner aligned in advancing our mission, our values, and helping us achieve our vision for better health, and a more equitable health care system for all of our communities, especially those who are vulnerable,” shared Michael Cox, chief mission officer of Virginia Mason Franciscan Health and CommonSpirit Health’s Northwest Region.

Programs and events like the P.O.W.E.R. conference connection, Melanin and Medicine, and the connection to The Morehouse School of Medicine are just a few examples of how B2L and VMFH have bridged gaps and introduced young people to exciting career opportunities in the field. The P.O.W.E.R. conference connection empowers students and families by connecting them with professionals in health care, fitness, mental health, and beyond. Melanin and Medicine fosters a dynamic space for youth and medical professionals to network, share experiences, and celebrate the community. This year, over 100 young attendees engaged in interactive workshops led by VMFH team members. These workshops explored diverse career paths, including nursing, becoming a physician, non-clinical roles, and hands-on clinic experiences.

Through this work, B2L was nominated and recently honored with a Health Justice Award from the The Lloyd Dean Institute for Humankindness and Health Justice at CommonSpirit Health. The award recognizes B2L’s significant and lasting impacts in our community.

“It’s an important milestone for B2L, being a newer organization,” said Jimmy Brown, B2L founder. “We’re excited to see what the next four years hold. This award is definitely a staple for us.”

During the award ceremony, Brown highlighted the story of one student whose life was transformed by the partnership. She aspired to work in health care but her GPA held her back. B2L connected her with a VMFH mentor, fostering a relationship that helped her increase her GPA and pursue a technical college degree. Today, thanks to the guidance she received, she has begun another training program to help fulfill her health care career aspirations.

“When our facilities reflect the communities we serve, better care is provided and better outcomes are seen,” noted Doug Baxter-Jenkins, region program director for Community Health at Virginia Mason Franciscan Health.

B2L plans to scale efforts as more school districts express interest in partnering and engaging youth in health care. Learn more about Build 2 Lead.