Family Learning Center at Maricopa Medical Center
Celebrates First Year Anniversary

MIHS Press Releasee

Oct. 17, 2008

Maricopa County Special Health Care District (MCSHD) in partnership with many community partners is celebrating the first year anniversary of its Family Learning Center. The Family Learning Center (FLC) is part of a community-wide effort to meet the diverse needs of working families, individuals, and retirees in the heart of Phoenix by providing health information, referrals, group education, and promoting the love of reading for families.  The first anniversary celebration will take place Friday, October 17 from 12 Noon to 2 p.m.

Within the first year of opening its doors, the Family Learning Center has served more than 25,000 visitors, exceeding its initial expectation of serving an estimated 10,000 visitors.  The FLC offers early childhood literacy programs, health information, community referrals, and group education. The 600 square foot space houses one full-time staff person, four computer stations, a children’s reading area, computer and paper-based health education, and group education.  Families are often referred to the center by one of Maricopa Integrated Health Systems eleven Family Health Centers around the Valley as a routine component of patient care.   

“To address our larger community needs of promoting health and education for our children and families, the Family Learning Center provides one-stop shopping for health information, education and reading programs in a clinic-based setting. It’s a great example of what can be accomplished when a health care system, foundations, corporations, and non-profits join forces to address families needs in our community,” said Betsey Bayless, CEO of Maricopa Integrated Health System.  
 
“We want to empower families to play a more active role in their health by providing them a place to learn about their health issues and preventative health topics,” says Rebecca Birr, Medical Librarian at MIHS says. “The Family Learning Center is a great community resource because it offers excellent health, wellness and educational information to families in an ever increasing digital world.”   

Maricopa Integrated Health System, CEO, Betsey Bayless and MCSHD Board of Director, Paulina Morris, as well as other community leaders, will speak at the event.  The event will additionally feature exhibitors, information and refreshments. 

The Family Learning Center is located in the Comprehensive Healthcare Center (2nd Floor) located immediately to the west of Maricopa Medical Center. 

Last updated on December 16, 2009