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Access Health CT

Access Health CT to Host Free, In-Person Events to Help Connecticut Residents Enroll in Health Insurance

Enrollment Specialists available at events to help consumers in English and Spanish

HARTFORD, Conn. (Nov. 1, 2024) — Access Health CT (AHCT) today announced it will hold 10 enrollment fairs in November to help Connecticut residents shop, compare, and enroll in health or dental coverage. They can also renew their coverage. Enrollment fairs are one-day events for customers to get free, in-person help from experts. The fairs will take place in Bridgeport, Bristol, Fairfield, Hartford, Middletown, New Haven, Norwalk, Torrington, Waterbury and Willimantic.

Open Enrollment begins today. When you enroll affects when your coverage starts. If customers enroll on or before Dec. 15, 2024, coverage will start Jan. 1, 2025. If they enroll between Dec. 16, 2024, and Jan. 15, 2025, coverage will start Feb. 1, 2025.

Connecticut residents who want to attend a fair can book an appointment online on the Enrollment Events webpage on AccessHealthCT.com. Walk-in appointments are welcome.

The enrollment fairs will take place at the following places and times:

“If you have questions or want to sign up for health insurance, we encourage you to visit one of our enrollment fairs,” said Access Health CT Chief Executive Officer James Michel. “Picking the right plan for you and your family is important. We are holding 26 events all over the state throughout the Open Enrollment period to help all residents get the support they need.”

Other options for free help are available online, in person and over the phone.

In addition to enrollment fairs, customers can also visit enrollment locations and Navigator partner locations during regular business hours. A list of these locations is available on the Enrollment Events webpage.

Customers can also get help from acertified broker or enrollment specialist in their community. To find one, visit the Get Help webpage.

For free help online, customers can visit AccessHealthCT.com. They can also chat with a customer service representative by clicking the “Live Chat” icon on the website. Live chat is available Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 6:45 p.m. and Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 2:45 p.m.

Customers can also call 1-855-805-4325, Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. and Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Help is available in over 100 languages.

The call center will be open from 8:00 a.m. to midnight on Dec. 15, 2024 and Jan. 15, 2025.

The call center will be closed on Nov. 28, 2024, Nov. 29, 2024, Dec. 25, 2024 and Jan. 1, 2025.

Customers who are deaf or hearing impaired may use TTY at 1-855-789-2428 or call with a relay operator.

Access Health CT

Access Health CT Open Enrollment Period Begins November 1

Connecticut residents can shop, compare and enroll in quality health insurance plans from

Nov. 1, 2024 through Jan. 15, 2025

HARTFORD, Conn. (Oct. 31, 2024) — Access Health CT (AHCT) announced the Open Enrollment period begins Nov. 1, 2024 and ends Jan. 15, 2025. Connecticut residents can shop, compare, and enroll in health insurance plans or renew their coverage. Customers may also enroll in dental insurance through AHCT.

When you enroll affects when your coverage starts. If customers enroll on or before Dec. 15, 2024, coverage will start Jan. 1, 2025. If they enroll between Dec. 16, 2024 and Jan. 15, 2025, coverage will start Feb. 1, 2025.

AHCT is the only place Connecticut residents can get financial help to pay for their health insurance. Nearly 90% of AHCT customers enrolled in a Qualified Health Plan (QHP) receive assistance. Some customers might also qualify for the Covered CT Program. This program provides no cost insurance for eligible residents.

There are 22 Qualified Health Plans (QHPs) available for customers to choose from this year. Plans are available from three insurance carriers, including Anthem, ConnectiCare Benefits Inc., and ConnectiCare Insurance Company Inc.

Starting Nov. 1, people who are part of the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrival (DACA) program and live in Connecticut can sign up for health and dental insurance through AHCT.

“This is the time to take control of your health. Enroll in a health and dental plan and remember to get your preventive care. Annual checkups and health screenings can help you detect or prevent illness and disease,” said Access Health CT Chief Executive Officer James Michel. “We’re here to help you get the health coverage you need to live a healthy life.”

Free help to sign up is available online, in person and over the phone.

There are many ways to get free, in-person help. AHCT hosts one-day enrollment fairs throughout the state. Enrollment fairs are usually held in the evening during the week or on weekends. Customers can also visit enrollment locations and Navigator partner locations during regular business hours. For a list of enrollment fairs and to register, visit the Enrollment Events webpage on the AHCT website. Information about enrollment locations and Navigator locations are also listed.

Customers can also get help from acertified broker or enrollment specialist in their community.

“Brokers are a wonderful resource for Connecticut residents,” said Michel. “They are free to work with and our network includes brokers who can speak in many different languages. If you would like help with the application process or would like to work with an expert who can help make a plan recommendation, a broker can help. Go online to AccessHealthCT.com and click ‘Get Help’ or call our call center to find a broker that can work with you.”

To get help over the phone, customers can call 1-855-805-4325, Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. and Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Help is available in over 100 languages.

The call center will be open from 8:00 a.m. to midnight on Dec. 15, 2024 and Jan. 15, 2025.

The call center will be closed on Nov. 28, 2024, Nov. 29, 2024, Dec. 25, 2024 and Jan. 1, 2025.  

Customers who are deaf or hearing impaired may use TTY at 1-855-789-2428 or call a relay operator.

For free help online, customers can visit AccessHealthCT.com. They can also chat live with a customer service representative by clicking the “Live Chat” icon on the website. Live chat is available Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 6:45 p.m. and Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 2:45 p.m.

Access Health CT

Deferred Action for Childhood Arrival (DACA) Recipients Eligible for Health Insurance Through Access Health CT

Eligibility begins November 1

HARTFORD, Conn. (Oct. 24, 2024) — Access Health CT (AHCT) today announced Deferred Action for Childhood Arrival (DACA) recipients will be eligible to enroll in health insurance coverage through state-based marketplaces beginning Nov. 1. This change in the law means DACA recipients living in Connecticut can enroll in health and dental insurance plans offered through AHCT.

DACA is a policy that defers deportation for eligible individuals who do not have a lawful U.S. immigration status.

DACA recipients from birth to 15 years old, or DACA recipients who are pregnant, may be eligible for HUSKY Health programs, including Medicaid and the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP).

DACA recipients who will be newly eligible to enroll in coverage through a state-based marketplace starting November 1 may also be eligible for financial help to pay for their health insurance. Eligibility is based on address, income and number of household members. Financial help is not available towards the cost of dental plans.

Anyone who becomes a DACA recipient will qualify for a 60-day Special Enrollment Period (SEP). The SEP will begin on the day deferred action is granted or on November 1 for 2024 coverage for those already granted deferred action.

“Our mission at Access Health CT is to reduce the rate of the uninsured and eliminate health disparities,” said Access Health CT Chief Executive Officer, James Michel. “This new opportunity allows for even more people living in Connecticut to get insured, which will improve overall health outcomes in our communities.”

“Our customers can receive enrollment help in over 100 languages when they contact our call center, as well as get in-person help through a broker or one of our Navigator community partners around the state,” Michel continued. “We are here to assist them in getting the important insurance coverage they need to live healthy lives.”

DACA recipients can find free help and enroll online, in person or by phone.

For free help and to enroll, customers may contact the call center at 1-855-805-4325, Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Enrollment help is available over the phone in more than 100 languages. Customers who are deaf or hearing impaired may use TTY at 1-855-789-2428 or call 1-855-805-4325 with a relay operator.

There are several ways to get free in-person help. Customers may work with acertified broker or enrollment specialist in their community. To find a certified broker or enrollment specialist, visit the Get Help webpage at www.accesshealthct.com/get-help.

In addition, customers may visit any of AHCT’s Navigator partner locations. Expert help from enrollment specialists is available at these locations year-round. Please contact the site in advance to make an appointment.

AHCT Navigator locations include the Community Health Center Association of CT (CHCACT) in Norwich and Willimantic, Community Renewal Team (CRT) in Hartford, the Cornell Scott Hill Health Center in New Haven, the Greater Bridgeport Area Prevention Program (GBAPP) in Bridgeport and New Opportunities, Inc. in Waterbury.

For free online help, customers may visit AccessHealthCT.com. Live chat is available by clicking the “Live Chat” icon to connect with a customer service representative in real time. Live chat is available Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 3:45 p.m.

Access Health CT

Access Health CT Leadership Recognized by the 2024 Stevie Awards for Great Employers

HARTFORD, Conn. (Sept. 27, 2024) — Access Health CT (AHCT) today announced its Human Resources Manager, Jessica Briggs, has received a bronze Stevie Award from the 2024 Stevie Awards for Great Employers in its Onboarding Professional of the Year category. All winners were recognized during a gala awards dinner Monday, Sept. 16 at the Marriott Marquis Hotel in New York City.

“Our mission to reduce the rate of the uninsured and eliminate health disparities is an important part of our culture at Access Health CT, and that message is reinforced from the moment a new employee walks through the door,” said Chief Executive Officer of Access Health CT, James Michel. “We can’t thank Jessica enough for her dedication to our mission and to fostering a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere from the very first point of contact.”

Having joined the organization when it was just emerging from its startup phase a decade ago, Briggs helped develop its foundational policies and procedures, and played an important part in its transformation into the well-known state entity it is today. From her first role as a Human Resources Generalist to her current role as a Human Resources Manager, Briggs has been the driving force behind the organization’s onboarding experience, ensuring a seamless integration for all new employees.

Her proactivity fosters a sense of ownership and pride, which is crucial for building a cohesive and motivated team. It encourages employees to take an active role in their work and the organization’s success, serving as a testament to her and AHCT’s ability to maintain a consistent values-driven culture, even as the organization navigates changes.

“We know external success starts from within, which is why we emphasize the importance of investing in our people’s well-being,” said Human Resources Director of Access Health CT, Glenn Jurgen. “Jessica’s compassionate leadership is truly a testament to the personal and professional development of our team.”

The Stevie Awards for Great Employers recognize the world’s best employers and the individuals within them who help create and drive great places to work. More than 1,000 nominations from organizations of all sizes in 35 nations and territories were submitted this year for consideration in a wide range of HR-related categories. Details about the Stevie Awards for Great Employers and the list of 2024 Stevie winners are available at StevieAwards.com/HR.   

Access Health CT

Access Health CT Announces Applications are Open for 2024 Broker Academy Program

The free training program is diversifying the broker community in Connecticut 

HARTFORD, Conn. (March 1, 2024) — Access Health CT (AHCT) today announced that applications are open for the 2024 Broker Academy Program. Click here for the application. The deadline to apply is March 31.

The Broker Academy is now in its third year. This free program creates a pathway to license health insurance brokers by recruiting from, and building the skillsets of, those who live and work in underserved communities in Connecticut.

The Broker Academy was created as part of AHCT’s mission-driven approach to reducing health disparities. As a result of the program, 50 students passed the state licensing exam and became insurance brokers. Forty-two are certified with AHCT. They are now working as brokers throughout the state.

Health insurance brokers help their clients shop, compare and enroll in a health insurance plan that best fits their needs. They also assist their clients in understanding their selected insurance plan and how to use it, and they answer any additional questions. 

The program is an opportunity for participants to begin a new, flexible career in a growing employment field. The demand for health insurance brokers is projected to increase by 8% through 2032 (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics).

Applicants to the Broker Academy must be 18 years or older. They must hold a high school diploma or GED, have one to three letters of recommendation and have community service experience. The program is open to all Connecticut residents. Preference will be given to applicants who reside or work in underserved areas.

Accepted Broker Academy candidates will receive free training, a five-month mentorship with an experienced broker, professional development and program support. Weekly training sessions for program readiness will be held in May. In-person classes begin June 3. Classes will take place in the Hartford and Norwalk areas, two of the most underinsured areas in Connecticut.

“We are proud of the Broker Academy and the impact its graduates are having on underserved communities,” said Access Health CT Chief Executive Officer James Michel. “By working as trusted resources in these areas, they are helping people get access to health care they have not had before. And breaking down these barriers will lead to healthier generations in the future.

“Our goal is to continue building on the success we’ve had for the past two years,” he continued. “Eliminating health disparities is an important part of our mission. The Broker Academy is one way we can achieve that.”

AHCT is hosting free virtual Broker Academy information sessions. The remaining sessions will take place March 5 and March 19 from 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. To register for the March 5 session, click here. To register for the March 19 session, click here. 

Access Health CT

Access Health CT Announces Free Events to Help Husky Health Clients Affected by Medicaid Unwinding

These free, in-person events will take place in New Britain and Stamford

HARTFORD, Conn. (Feb. 20, 2024) — Access Health CT (AHCT) today announced it will host two free, in-person enrollment fairs in February and March to help HUSKY Health enrollees who have been affected by the Medicaid Unwinding process. The events will take place in New Britain and Stamford.

Medicaid Unwinding is the process of resuming the review of households for Medicaid eligibility after a three-year break during the Public Health Emergency. The eligibility redetermination process resumed April 1, 2023 and HUSKY Health clients will be notified when it is their turn to enroll. The process will end March 31. HUSKY Health is Connecticut’s Medicaid program.

Connecticut residents who remain eligible for HUSKY Health will likely be automatically reenrolled. Those who need to take action will receive mail with instructions.

Connecticut residents no longer eligible for HUSKY Health may become eligible for other no- or low-cost health coverage available through AHCT. Other options include the Covered Connecticut Program, which provides no-cost coverage for eligible residents, or a Qualified Health Plan (QHP), often available at a lower cost to residents if they qualify for subsidies.

HUSKY Health clients who need assistance with the process or have questions can get help from an enrollment specialist at these upcoming enrollment fairs:

Walk-ins are welcome.

“Access Health CT is here to help residents who are affected by Medicaid Unwinding as the process comes to a close over the next few weeks,” said Chief Executive Officer of Access Health CT, James Michel. “We encourage you to come to these events if you have questions or need help from expert enrollment specialists. We want to ensure you and your family have the health coverage you need.”

For free help online, residents may visit AccessHealthCT.com. Live chat is available by clicking the “Live Chat” icon to connect with a customer service representative in real time. Live chat is available Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:45 p.m., and Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 12:45 p.m.

Residents may also contact the call center at 1-855-805-4325, Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., and Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Help is available in over 100 languages. Customers who are deaf or hearing impaired may use TTY at 1-855-789-2428 or call with a relay operator.

Access Health CT

Record Number of Connecticut Residents Enroll in Health Insurance Plans Through Access Health CT for 2024

Access Health CT sees highest ever enrollment.

HARTFORD, Conn. (Jan. 18, 2024) — Access Health CT (AHCT) today announced that a record number of  Connecticut residents enrolled in 2024 health insurance plans through AHCT during the Open Enrollment period, which began Nov. 1, 2023 and ended Jan. 15, 2024.

A total of 129,000 people enrolled in a Qualified Health Plan for 2024, compared to 108,142 enrolled at the close of Open Enrollment last year. This is the highest enrollment since the state-based marketplace opened in 2013.

Included in that number are 27,393 residents enrolled with Covered CT benefits. The Covered CT Program provides no-cost coverage for eligible Connecticut residents. The State of Connecticut pays the consumer portion of premiums and cost-sharing.

In addition, more residents are now enrolled in dental coverage through AHCT, for a total of 14,050 residents.

There are several reasons for the increased enrollment. AHCT trained and supported new brokers  throughout the state to help residents with the application process. A targeted marketing and outreach campaign helped increase enrollment, with efforts focused on underserved communities and neighborhoods with high populations of uninsured residents. Medicaid Unwinding, which began April 1, 2023, also impacted enrollment for 2024. Medicaid Unwinding is the process of resuming the review of households for Medicaid/HUSKY Health eligibility after a three-year break during the Public Health Emergency.  Residents no longer eligible for coverage through HUSKY Health may now be eligible for financial help to enroll in a health insurance plan.

Beginning in late spring 2023, AHCT hosted an expanded number of outreach and enrollment fairs to help people affected by Medicaid Unwinding avoid gaps in coverage, as well as during Open Enrollment for all residents. Enrollment fairs are one-day events offering customers free, in-person help from enrollment specialists. AHCT also offers help year-round online, by phone and in person at their Navigator locations throughout the state.

The success of AHCT’s Broker Academy played an essential role in the unprecedented enrollment. Over the past two years, 50 new brokers were trained and licensed through the free program and now work within underserved communities across the state to help residents shop, compare and enroll in health insurance plans. These brokers also serve as trusted resources at in-person community outreach events.

“It takes the dedication and hard work of many to achieve these enrollment numbers,” said Access Health CT Chief Executive Officer, James Michel. “Our staff, community partners, partnership with the Department of Social Services, Broker Academy brokers and mentors, the legislative community and many others have made this a very successful Open Enrollment. I am proud to work with people who believe in our mission and understand the importance of health insurance coverage for everyone in Connecticut.”

Access Health CT

Access Health CT Leadership Recognized for Achievements in Reducing the Rate of the Uninsured, Reducing Health Disparities and Company Culture

HARTFORD, Conn. (Jan. 8, 2024) — Access Health CT (AHCT) today announced it recently received four awards, including two 2023 Stevie Awards for Great Employers a 2023 Diversity MBA’s Top 100 Under 50 Executive and Emerging Leaders Award and an eHealthcare Leadership Award.

“We are focused on our mission-driven goals of reducing the rate of the uninsured and health disparities,” said Chief Executive Officer of Access Health CT, James Michel. “Our staff, from leadership to individual contributors, are united in support of Connecticut residents. The results of our work, and these awards, demonstrate our success. And it makes AHCT a great place to work.”

In recognition of the positive impact AHCT and its staff have made, James Michel, Chief Executive Officer of AHCT, received a Silver Stevie Award for People-Focused CEO of the Year and Glenn Jurgen, Director of Human Resources of AHCT, received a Bronze Stevie Award for Chief Human Resources Officer of the Year. Tammy Hendricks, Director of Health Equity and Outreach of AHCT, was named one of Diversity MBA’s Top 100 Under 50 Executive and Emerging Leaders.

In addition, AHCT’s website won a Gold eHealthcare Leadership Award for Best Digital Leadership in Health Equity, Diversity and Inclusion for its dedicated section on health equity. This portion of the website can be found at AccessHealth.com/HealthEquity.

AHCT has helped more than one million individuals and small businesses get health coverage, often with significant financial assistance. In doing so, AHCT played an important role in cutting Connecticut’s uninsured rate in half, from 9.2% to 5.2%, one of the lowest rates of the uninsured in the country.

Under the leadership of Michel and Hendricks, AHCT pioneered the Broker Academy, a first-of-its-kind initiative to recruit and train individuals from underinsured communities to become licensed health insurance brokers within their communities. The entire organization was part of the cross-departmental effort needed to create the program, showcasing a company-wide commitment to the program in service of AHCT’s mission. The Broker Academy is now in its third year.

The Stevie Awards for Great Employers is an international initiative to celebrate the world’s best employers and human resources professionals, teams, and achievements, who help create and drive great places to work. The Diversity MBA Top 100 Under 50 Executive and Emerging Leaders Awards recognize professionals in corporate America who are setting remarkable standards and significantly influencing their respective industries. The eHealthcare Leadership Awards exclusively recognize the very best websites and digital communications of healthcare organizations (both large and small), online health companies, pharmaceutical and medical equipment firms, agencies and suppliers, and business improvement initiatives.

Access Health CT

Access Health CT to Host Free Events to Help Connecticut Residents Sign Up for Health Coverage

The deadline to enroll in a health insurance plan through Access Health CT is January 15, 2024

HARTFORD, Conn. (Dec. 19, 2023) — Access Health CT (AHCT)  announced today it will host seven enrollment fairs in January to help Connecticut residents shop, compare, and enroll or renew their health coverage during the current Open Enrollment period. Enrollment fairs are one-day events offering customers free, in-person help from enrollment specialists. The events will take place in Bloomfield, Groton, Hamden, Hartford, Manchester, Milford and Stratford.

Open Enrollment began Nov. 1, 2023 and runs through Jan. 15, 2024. Customers who enroll between Dec. 16, 2023 and Jan. 15, 2024 will have coverage starting Feb. 1, 2024.

Connecticut residents who are interested in attending the events can book an appointment online at AccessHealthCT.com/enrollment-events. Walk-in appointments are welcome.

The enrollment fairs will take place at the following locations and times:

“Open Enrollment ends in just a few weeks,” said Access Health CT Chief Executive Officer, James Michel. “If you haven’t enrolled in a health insurance plan for 2024, we encourage you to stop by one of our enrollment fairs where our team of experts can answer your questions and help you enroll before the January 15 deadline.”

AHCT also provides other options for free help to enroll online, in person and over the phone.

In addition to enrollment fairs, AHCT offers in-person help at enrollment locations and Navigators that host sessions during regular business hours throughout the week. A list of these locations is available at AccessHealthCT.com/Enrollment-Events.

Residents may also work with acertified broker or enrollment specialist in their community. To find an expert, visit AccessHealthCT.com/Get-Help.

For online help, residents may visit AccessHealthCT.com. Live chat is available by clicking the “Live Chat” icon to connect with a customer service representative. Live chat is available Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 6:45 p.m.

Residents may also contact the call center at 1-855-805-4325, Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. and Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

The call center will be open from 8:00 a.m. to midnight on Jan. 15, 2024.

The call center will be closed on Dec. 25, 2023 and Jan. 1, 2024.  

Customers who are deaf or hearing impaired may use TTY at 1-855-789-2428 or call with a relay operator.

Access Health CT

Hartford’s Chrysalis Center Wins  Access Health CT’s Commitment to Community Award

HARTFORD, Conn. (Dec. 8, 2023) — Access Health CT (AHCT) today announced the Hartford-based Chrysalis Center as the recipient of its annual Commitment to Community award. It was announced and shared during the annual community conference hosted Oct. 11, preparing community partners, brokers, certified application counselors (CACs) and staff for the Open Enrollment period that began Nov. 1 and runs through Jan. 15, 2024. Connecticut residents can shop, compare and enroll in health insurance coverage through AHCT during this period.

“This conference was a great opportunity to bring our entire Access Health CT team together to prepare for the Open Enrollment period and to thank them for all they do,” said Access Health CT Chief Executive Officer James Michel. “Collaboration like this is such an important part of the work we do toward reducing the rate of the uninsured and eliminating health disparities.”

Each year, prior to the beginning of Open Enrollment, AHCT recognizes a community leader who shares similar values with AHCT and works directly with customers in hard-to-reach communities with the “Commitment to Community” award.

This year, Michel presented the award to Chrysalis Center Chief Financial Officer Wendy Briere in recognition of the organization’s work to “provide support services to assist people in need to transform their lives.” The missions of AHCT and Chrysalis Center align with the goal of improving the lives and health outcomes of those in underserved populations. Like AHCT, Chrysalis Center embraces values such as diversity, equity, inclusion and collaboration.

Conference sessions highlighted topics of interest to attendees. For example, one session was a discussion on empowering customers through health literacy, with a focus on equity and inclusion. In addition, the Department of Social Services (DSS) provided updates on the Public Health Emergency and Medicaid Unwinding.

Connecticut legislative officials also had the opportunity to connect with the people who help AHCT customers directly, including visits from State Comptroller, Sean Scanlon, and State Senator, Matt Lesser. There was also a networking session with organizations that attended the event. These organizations included Anthem, Community Health Center Association of Connecticut (CHCAT), Community Renewal Team (CRT), the Comptroller’s Office with Array RX, ConnectiCare, CT Nonprofit Alliance, CT Paid Leave, Department of Public Health, Department of Social Services, Greater Bridgeport Area Prevention Program (GBAPP), Health Equity Solutions, New Opportunities Inc. (NOI) and Yale University.

Commitment to Community Award recipient, Chrysalis Center Chief Financial Officer Wendy Briere (left) with Access Health CT Director of Health Equity and Outreach, Tammy Hendricks (right).
“Commitment to Community Award” recipient, Chrysalis Center Chief Financial Officer Wendy Briere (left) with Access Health CT Director of Health Equity and Outreach, Tammy Hendricks (right).