Helping the Uninsured

A while back I wanted to keep busy doing meaningful work--what I found was a chance to encourage uninsured families to apply for Medi-Cal and Healthy Families, two insurance programs for low-income Californians.  Certified Application Assistants, as they're called, are certified to give free help in the somewhat complicated process.
I signed up with an Enrollment Entity, a person who would act as supervisor.  Then I studied the various rules and regulations for both insurance programs, such as who qualifies as a family member and whose income counts.  I took an exam, passed, and received an ID number to use when sending online or paper applications for families.
I ordered applications and handbooks in English and other languages, which I distributed to local nonprofits and mosques.  I assisted any one who asked for help in filling out the application for Medi-Cal and Healthy Families.  I felt I was doing a tiny, but significant, part to improve society through these programs.
Unfortunately, these programs are always in danger of losing federal and state funding.  They aren't the perfect fix for all unisured since families with income outside the limits don't qualify, yet these Americans can not afford private health insurance either.  However, Medi-Cal and Healthy Families do offer relief for some low-income families. And, until a better solution comes along, we need these programs to stay.

New Thinking in the New Year

 I've experienced discrimination outside the workplace--like the elderly lady standing in line with me at the supermarket who commented to her companion, "Amazing what kind of people you see around here."  My reaction is one of pity because she obviously is not in touch with reality.  The United States is home to many different races and ethnicities, all of us adding to this country's richness. 
As an inspiring human resource professional, I appreciate diversity training, where managers and employees become more aware of discriminatory behaviors. Hopefully, such training will create more inclusiveness at work, and in the rest of our lives.
As the new year rolls around, let's all have one resolution: to be more tolerant and understanding towards one another.  As a nation of good people, we can help foster peace in our everyday lives.

My First Post

Hello and Assalamu alaikum (Peace be upon you)!
After hearing so much about blogs, I'm joining in as the year 2010 comes around.  Besides improving my typing/writing skills, I can share my thoughts:
As the sluggish economy seemed to improve, I was able to find paid employment.  Seeing talented professionals become laid-off did discourage my jobhunting, but I was persistent.  I took classes to improve my computer and office skills and networked with other jobseekers.  And I didn't mind volunteering to add some meat to my resume.  Next up is a permanent position!