DePaul Community Health Centers’ associates Michael Hansen, medical psychologist, and Julie Henderson, executive assistant to the
president/CEO, board liaison and chief advocacy leader, were recently named 2021 Health Care Hero honorees by New Orleans CityBusiness. Health Care Heroes, which began in 2007, recognizes healthcare professionals in the New Orleans area in six categories: animal care, first responder, nurse, physician, professional, and volunteer.
Honorees are selected based on industry and community involvement and achievement that have set the pace for the overall community.
Hansen advocates nationally for faith-based health clinics to enhance behavioral health outreach to underserved communities. He provides mental health training and advocacy support for the Collaborative Family Health Association, Christian Community Health Fellowship, and the Governor's Commission on Youth and Juvenile Justice. His work with the latter organization during the pandemic involved training juvenile justice
professionals on recognizing mental health issues in youth.
Recently, Henderson received the Consumer Advocate of the Year Award from the Louisiana Primary Care Association (LPCA), acknowledging an outstanding consumer who has made significant contributions toward promoting the mission of federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) and excelled in grassroots advocacy on behalf of Louisiana’s FQHCs. She serves as a member of the New Orleans East Vaccine Task Force led by
Councilwoman Cyndi Nguyen to ensure that members of District E receive access to COVID-19 vaccines.
Henderson is also recording secretary and board member for the New Orleans African American Museum of Culture and History; a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.; and a board member and financial secretary of Pleasant Zion Missionary Baptist Church.
Hansen and Henderson will be celebrated as Health Care Heroes on Oct. 25 at the New Orleans Museum.