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CHARLOTTE, N.C. -- The key to having a healthy community is to have a well-informed community. At least that is what Sandra Peynado believes. As Presbyterian Hospital's first Latino Health Educator, Peynado spends her days visiting churches, recruiting students and conducting health promoter training across Greater Mecklenburg County.

Peynado, a doctor by trade in native Colombia, started at Presbyterian this year with plans to educate the Latino community about healthy living and health resources. Similar to its sister program conducted in English, Health Promoters in Latino Churches (PSIL) identifies congregational leaders and then brings them together for a two-day training. Upon receiving their certificate, promoters are armed with the knowledge and resources needed to begin a health ministry in their own congregations. Peynado even provides monthly follow-up meetings that focus on a particular health topic so that promoters always feel supported and informed.

"The church is a great avenue through which to reach many Latinos," Peynado explained. "As newcomers arrive in the community, they look to groups such as churches to find a sense of belonging. By creating these health ministries, Latinos are able to tap into a trusted resource to get important preventive health and health care information."

The health promoter trainings take place quarterly at different area locations. For more information on how to register or schedule a training, call Peynado at 704-384-4192.