October is Health Literacy Month

Health Literacy Month is a time for organizations and individuals worldwide to promote the importance of understandable health information. Founded by Helen Osborne, there have been hundreds of awareness-raising events held across the U.S. and around the world since this grassroots initiative began in 1999.

Health Literacy Month Events & Projects

Health Literacy Month events have included workshops and conferences for professionals, community programs for the public, and classes or other educational offerings for students at all levels. In 2009, the theme for Health Literacy Month was "Why Health Literacy Matters: Sharing Our Stories in Words, Pictures, and Sound." This website served as a virtual gathering place for personal stories told as essays, podcasts, songs, photos, and even poems. You can find all these at the story page of this website.

Health Literacy Month Leadership

After a dozen years of coordinating all aspects of Health Literacy Month, I am ready to turn over leadership to others. What does this mean?

I hope that individuals everywhere continue advocating for health literacy -- in October as well as throughout the year.
I invited organizations, coalitions, and businesses to consider assuming leadership of this worthwhile project. Please contact me to discuss how we could work together to ensure a smooth transition.

Health Literacy Month has been a remarkable success. Thank you for accompanying me on this journey. ~Helen Osborne