Henry Hatter

Hamilton Community Health Network

When it comes to advocacy, the focus is sometimes (necessarily) on big numbers: thousands of calls made in response to this, hundreds of new grassroots leaders attached to that. But at its core, successful advocacy for America’s Health Centers boils down to the extraordinary efforts of individuals, who sometimes labor for years in support of the movement. We recognize one such extraordinary individual, Henry Hatter, as our February 2009 Advocate of the Month.

As a long-time board member at Hamilton Community Health Network (HCHN) in Flint, Michigan, Henry is one who has leveraged his personal determination and skill with particular dedication. Henry is engaged in the full range of advocacy activities, from writing letters to the editor to conducting state and federal legislative visits.

Henry also recognizes the importance of coming together in grassroots involvement, leading the charge to take part in National Health Center Week and local activities that promote health centers and link their work to that of other community agencies.

Henry is specifically proud of the progress seen on the Healthy Communities initiative, a partnership involving numerous organizations in Clio, Michigan that has been recognized for its success.

Henry told us that he was “surprised and humbled” to be recognized. Well, we are surprised and humbled by the amazing work of people like Henry every day. For his many years of effort in support of HCHN and all health centers, we recognize Henry Hatter as our February 2009 National Community Health Advocate of the Month.