What's In Your Toolbox?

September 18, 2024
Headshot of Dr. Gregory Todd, Executive Director of Men of Color Health Awareness (MOCHA) next to quote

Dr. Gregory Todd is the executive director of Men of Color Health Awareness (MOCHA).


He writes, "If you are a self-proclaimed agent of social change like me, you have on more than one occasion made plans to take over the world, wanted to transform your organization, or even aspired to mentor a staff member. Whenever I have had such maniacal thoughts, I have asked myself two important questions.

 

The first question is always: What tools do I have in my toolbox to accomplish these tasks? I then try to be specific regarding which tools I will need. Do I need more leadership skills? Am I transformative enough? How do I inspire others? If my passion is my WHY…my toolbox is my HOW. And, as passionate as I am about being transformative and impactful, I am honest enough with myself to know that the bravery, confidence, and deliberateness to engage can only be supported and justified by what I feel is in my toolbox.

 

The second and equally important question is: If I don’t have these tools where can I get them? One answer that I discovered is the Race and Health Equity Resource Guide. With a bevy of useful information ranging from informative articles to transformative podcasts and books, filling and refilling my professional toolbox has been something that I look forward to doing on a regular basis. And with a toolbox that is responsive to my environment, I feel more confident in my ability to be transformative in my community in a way that is uplifting and empowering."

share this

Related Articles

Join our team Open positions Communications Coordinator and Data Coordinator
March 27, 2026
We are hiring!
Air Quality  Transportation Showcases
March 27, 2026
These open-house style events are a chance to connect, learn, and take action around air quality and transportation in our community. Drop in at anytime, move at your own pace, visit different tables, and dive into the topics that matter to you! Kids are welcome — activities will be provided. We will also serve food and refreshments. What You’ll Experience: Be the first to see the NEW Healthy Air Network App Launching this spring — get a sneak peek at how you can track air quality and stay informed. Understand the link between air quality & transportation Learn how traffic, transit, and daily choices affect the air we breathe. Turn awareness into action Explore real opportunities to advocate for policies that protect our health and our community. Greenfield Showcase Tuesday, March 31, 2026 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM Greenfield Public Library, 412 Main St, Greenfield, MA 01301 Register here: bit.ly/GreenfieldHAN Holyoke Showcase Tuesday, April 7, 2026 5:00 PM – 7:30 PM Enlace de Familias, 299 Main St, Holyoke, MA 01040 Register here: bit.ly/HolyokeHAN Information will be similar at both sessions. Download Flyer in English Download Flyer in Spanish
March 23, 2026
Health Coverage at Risk: What New Federal Rules Mean for Western Massachusetts