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Every parent wants to keep their child healthy, but navigating healthcare and immunizations can be overwhelming. Finding the right doctor, understanding insurance options, and accessing reliable information can feel like barriers instead of stepping stones. That’s where WithinReach steps in—providing immediate support to families while strategically shaping the systems that serve them. 

A Two-Fold Approach: Boots on the Ground and a Seat at the Table 

Because our approach is two-fold, WithinReach delivers both immediate support and long-term systemic change to Washington families. We forge strategic partnerships that bring together subject matter experts to improve healthcare systems, and we use those insights to equip our Resource Navigators with up-to-date information. This means families receive accurate and timely guidance while we work behind the scenes to improve policies and remove barriers to care and support. 

Beyond connecting families to care, WithinReach drives policy changes that enhance immunization access and education. Through coalitions like Vax Northwest, Prenatal to 3, and the Immunization Action Coalition of Washington, we convene health leaders, community voices, and advocates to create lasting solutions. Programs like Immunity Community promote vaccine confidence by providing families with science-backed information, empowering them to make informed choices. We remain adaptable, ensuring our work reflects the evolving needs of the communities we serve. 

Help Me Grow Washington: Making Healthcare and Immunizations Access Easier for Families 

Every family deserves clear and trusted pathways to care—whether it’s finding a doctor, enrolling in health insurance, or accessing local immunization clinics. Through Help Me Grow Washington, WithinReach streamlines access to essential services. Our Resource Navigators provide personalized guidance, equipping parents to navigate complex systems with confidence. 

Lark Kesterke, Director of the Help Me Grow Washington Network at WithinReach, underscores our vital role: “Parents face enough daily challenges; healthcare shouldn’t be one of them. Help Me Grow Washington simplifies access to trusted resources, allowing parents to focus on what truly matters: their child’s well-being.”  

Real Families, Real Impact 

This two-fold approach isn’t just the backdrop of our work—it directly impacts families every day. Recently, a mother reached out to our hotline, deeply fearful for her child’s health during RSV season due to his unique medical needs. While our Resource Navigator provided initial guidance, some of her questions required more specialized insight. With her permission, she was connected with Ajia McAferty, Senior Manager of Strategic Partnership & System Building at WithinReach. McAferty was able to provide critical information about vaccine access for the upcoming respiratory illness season —insights that even the family’s pediatrician had not yet received. 

Reflecting on the experience, McAftery shared: “Conversations like these remind me why this work matters so much. Parents are doing everything they can to protect their kids, and sometimes they just need someone to bridge the gap—connecting them to the right information at the right time. Knowing we could provide this mother with answers and peace of mind? That’s what WithinReach is all about.” 

 Join Us: Stand Up and Stand Strong for Healthy Kids and Communities Across Washington 

With government agencies facing budget cuts and worker layoffs, families are finding it increasingly difficult to navigate critical healthcare systems. Now, more than ever, WithinReach is committed to ensuring every family has access to the care, protection, and support they need to build a healthier future. 

💜 Don’t wait. Washington’s kids need your support today.