Voices From the Editor’s Desk 

On the week of Juneteenth, on another edition of From the Desk of the Editor, we had the privilege of sitting down with Vernita Largen Todd, Executive Director at San Ysidro Health and a passionate advocate for equitable healthcare access. With decades of leadership in community health, Ms. Todd now oversees the PACE (Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly) program in San Diego—serving seniors with dignity, compassion, and comprehensive support.

Originally from Tennessee and a proud Delta since 1989, Ms. Todd shared her journey from the Midwest to Southeastern San Diego, bringing with her a wealth of experience, empathy, and leadership. She reminded us that San Ysidro Health was founded not by politicians or corporations—but by seven women who wanted better for their families. Their vision of “access for all” continues today, reaching over 160,000 people across the county.

Her reflections weren’t just about programs and policy—they were personal. From honoring her 86-year-old mother to advocating for seniors in East County and rural areas like Alpine and Campo, Ms. Todd emphasizes that community care isn’t about geography—it’s about spirit.

She addressed common misconceptions about PACE eligibility, breaking down the requirements and challenges many seniors face when navigating support systems. Ms. Todd’s transparency and warmth—paired with strategic insight—are exactly what community-centered healthcare looks like.

We invite you to explore more of this conversation and others like it on our Voice & Viewpoint Newspaper YouTube channel.  As San Diego’s oldest and only African-American newspaper, our mission remains the same: to inform, uplift, and give voice to our communities—across all 89 ZIP codes and far beyond.

A new episode of From the Desk of the Editor airs every Wednesday on Facebook and YouTube. Stay tuned for our next guest, Dr. Satia Austin, on July 23rd. Stay informed, stay inspired, and most of all—stay connected.

Check out show clips at www.sdvoice.info and on our YouTube Channel @voiceviewpointnewspaper1843.