photo by: Josie Heimsoth/Journal-World

The Community Health Facility, 200 Maine St. is pictured Tuesday, February 25, 2025.

Four organizations will be co-hosting a free community event centered on birth outcomes in Douglas County.

The “Public Health After Dark” event will be hosted by Lawrence-Douglas County Public Health, LMH Health, LiveWell Douglas County and the Early Childhood Collective. It will take place from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. on April 16 at the Community Health Facility, 200 Maine Street.

According to a press release from LDCPH, in Douglas County, Black non-Hispanic infants experience low birth weight, preterm birth and infant mortality at significantly higher rates than other infants. The event will educate the community about this reality and spark dialogue regarding disparities and the systems, policies, and lived experiences that shape them.

Attendees will explore data on maternal and infant health alongside community stories. There will also be small-group discussions and interactive activities, where people will reflect on the data, discuss why inequities persist and learn how the community can support healthier pregnancies and births for all families.

The event is free and open to the public. Participants can register at bit.ly/4sBAodA.