SYRACUSE, N.Y. (NCC News) — The Syracuse Community Health Center, located on Salina St., made headlines last year for becoming the first drive-thru coronavirus-testing center in the United States. Now, after a year of research and investment in equitable vaccination methods, Chief Business Development Officer Derrick Murry has successfully vaccinated thousands of marginalized groups.
This year, Murry lost his cousin, a Louisiana-based nurse, to coronavirus-related complications. According to Murry, she refused the coronavirus vaccine. Now, Murry has made it his goal to prevent avoidable deaths through a creative and accommodating approach, stating, “we have to be there. We have to be willing to show up. We have to do six to eight programs in the summer and reach [people] where they are and bring any number of inducements to help them.” These inducements range from monetary give-aways, TV raffles, and even live music.
By making a tangible effort to reach marginalized and at-risk groups, Murry says he is, “building trust. Being a trusted messenger.” Murry says he builds trust and informs the community by, “being someone who is willing to walk the walk, talk the talk, meet people at the street corner, in the Bodegas, and in the environments where they feel most comfortable and talking about the importance of being vaccinated.”
Murry hopes to increase statewide vaccination rates. As of today, less than 50% of the black New York community is fully-vaccinated- a mark more than 10% lower than their white counterparts. While Murry couldn’t provide a magic number, he said he wants to increase vaccination rates, “one person at a time.”
The progress hasn’t always been palpable, but for Murry, it means perpetuating admirable work. Murry claimed, “it’s a real privilege to do what we do. To take care of individuals who otherwise might not seek care, might not feel comfortable seeking care. So when I come to work every day,” Murray asserts, “that’s something I hang my hat on.”
As for next year, Murry forecasts the coronavirus becoming endemic, almost like the flu. Until then, Murry claims, he wants nothing more than for everyone to do their part. With his transformative efforts, it’s safe to say, New York might bounce back.
