The African American Diabetes Association's Website Is Under Construction.
We're working hard to improve your experience!
We're excited to announce that our website is currently undergoing a major renovation! We're working hard to create a more user-friendly, informative, and engaging online experience for our community. In the meantime, you can still access our current website.
Stay tuned for updates on our progress and the launch of our new website! Follow us on social media for the latest news.
Honor the memory of a loved one by supporting the African American Diabetes Association.
Make a difference! Donate Today!

CNN's insightful biography of Luther Vandross masterfully portrays the extraordinary artist and the remarkable human being he was. His journey is truly inspiring – from his early appearances on Sesame Street to his reign as the undisputed king of the love song.
Luther struggled with the challenges of diabetes and hypertension, both of which may have been brought on by family genetics as well as lifestyle and nutrition. He had just finished the final vocals for the album Dance With My Father, when on April 16, 2003 he suffered a severe stroke at his home in New York City.
The stroke left him in a coma for nearly two months, during which time he also had to fight both meningitis and pneumonia (which required a tracheotomy). The stroke also left Vandross with noticeable difficulty speaking and singing, as well as confinement to a wheelchair.
Luther's strength and resilience in facing the challenges of living with diabetes are a powerful testament to his grace and determination. We will forever cherish the memory of Luther and the enduring legacy of his music. We highly recommend watching this exceptional documentary. #Luther #LutherVandross #CNN #BlackExcellence
Mr. Clarence V. Wilder
Mr. Clarence V. Wilder, Chief Court Officer of Essex Superior Court, who served with unwavering dedication from 1985 to 2024. Passed away on December 8th, 2024.
For nearly four decades, Mr. Wilder was a pillar of the court, known for his integrity and commitment. Beyond his professional life, he was a respected student and teacher of Uechi Ryu Karate Do (Waychee Ru Karate Doe), leaving a lasting impact on countless individuals. For the past ten years, he was a devoted student of Walter E. Mattson, achieving the esteemed rank of 9th-degree black belt and becoming a vital member of Mr. Mattson's Massachusetts-based group of schools.
Mr. Wilder's journey highlighted the critical need for improved care for patients in underserved communities. In his memory, Walter Mattson and his students have made a generous donation to the African American Diabetes Association to support these vital efforts.
We extend our heartfelt condolences to Mr. Wilder's family, friends, and colleagues. His legacy of dedicated service to the court and his profound impact as a martial artist will be deeply missed and forever remembered.


MEDIA INQUIRIES:
Contact Leon Rock, M. Ed.
Co-Founder and CEO
e-mail: lrock@africanamericandiabetes.org
Make A Tax Deductible Donation In Memory of Your Loved One.
Your contribution makes life better for those with diabetes through community education and community outreach. Donations can be sent in your love ones name online or by mail to:
African American Diabetes Association #1724 Beltsville, MD 20705

Speakers Addressing
the Challenges of Diabetes
The African American Diabetes Association is honored to offer its top leadership as dynamic speakers who can inspire and inform your audience. These speakers, including our co-founders will share their personal stories, illuminating the profound impact of diabetes on millions of Black Americans. They will address critical health disparities and share their advocacy for essential services to improve the well-being of the Black and other minority communities.
Our speakers are available for both in-person and virtual engagements, offering flexibility to suit your event's needs. While their insights are invaluable, we understand the importance of budgeting. Please reach out to discuss your specific requirements and explore fee options that align with your organization's goals.
It's Black History Month, but Black history isn't confined to just one month—it's made every single day! And when it comes to healthcare, Black medical pioneers have been at the forefront of groundbreaking advancements that have shaped the very medicine we benefit from today.
Think pacemakers, life-saving blood transfusions, the delicate precision of neurosurgery separating conjoined twins, and the revolutionary advancements in open-heart surgery. These are just a glimpse of the extraordinary contributions of Black medical experts who have revolutionized healthcare. From the operating room to the research lab, their impact has been profound and continues to resonate. Just as we recognize the importance of initiatives like Negro Health Week in the past, we celebrate the ongoing achievements of Black medical professionals today.
This Black History Month, and every month, the African American Diabetes Association is proud to spotlight the remarkable accomplishments of these trailblazing individuals.
Join us as we honor their legacies and the ongoing impact they have on the future of health. Stay tuned for inspiring stories and a celebration of Black excellence in medicine!

Making a difference in addressing the challenges of diabetes in the African American community just got easier!
The African American Diabetes Association (AADA) is now on LinkedIn!
By connecting with us, you'll be part of a powerful network driving change through:
-
Sharing vital information
-
Promoting health equity
-
Supporting research and education
Join us on LinkedIn and help us make a lasting impact.
The African American Diabetes Association (AADA) celebrates Booker T. Washington, whose 1915 National Negro Health Week profoundly impacted health awareness. Recognizing the link between health and opportunity, Booker T Washington's initiative (1915-1951) addressed health disparities within the African American community, including diabetes. The AADA recognizes National Negro Health Week's historical significance, and builds on the foundation of National Negro Health Week to connect individuals with vital diabetes health information. AADA encourages learning about Booker T. Washington's legacy and prioritizing health.

The African American Diabetes Association supports the call for a national campaign to end the U.S. Diabetes Epidemic.
Guardian Series exposes diabetes health inequities and how America is failing people with diabetes.

"CNN's insightful biography of Luther Vandross masterfully portrays the extraordinary artist and the remarkable human being he was.
Luther struggled with the challenges of diabetes and hypertension, both of which may have been brought on by family genetics as well as lifestyle and nutrition. Luther's strength and resilience in facing the challenges of living with diabetes are a powerful testament to his grace and determination. We will forever cherish the memory of Luther and the enduring legacy of his music. We highly recommend watching this exceptional documentary."
- Leon Rock, Co-Founder and CEO African American Diabetes Association
African American Diabetes Association
In the News!
The African American Diabetes Association (AADA) is proud to be named a Life-Saving Resource for Black Diabetics by BlackDoctor.org. In the article written by Evan Bollinger, he explores various resources available to Black communities, including AADA, DiabetesSisters, ADCES, and church-based programs.
Watch Usher and Deion Sanders
talk candidly about Diabetes
-
Donate to the African American Diabetes Association to support vital education, and advocacy programs specifically addressing the disproportionate impact of diabetes on Black communities.
-
Your contribution helps empower individuals, improve health outcomes, and work towards a future free from diabetes-related disparities.
Volunteer with the African American Diabetes Association