On August 28th, 2025, the Southwest Organizing Project’s (SWOP) Healthy Southwest team of Public Health Ambassadors (PHAs) gathered at Holy Cross Hospital for a timely and important training on protecting themselves and their community from phishing and online scams. In today’s digital world, these scams often target vulnerable populations, including seniors and families who rely on online resources for healthcare and social services.

With guidance from SWOP Organizer Imaltzin Astorga, the PHAs worked through a curriculum designed to help them identify suspicious emails, dangerous links, and untrustworthy websites. This training not only gave the ambassadors practical tools to safeguard their own information but also prepared them to share these skills with neighbors who may be less familiar with digital safety.

The training wasn’t limited to technical lessons—it also emphasized collaboration and interactive learning. PHAs competed in a healthcare-themed version of Jeopardy, where they answered questions about phishing awareness as well as one regarding the wide range of health systems and community resources connected to SWOP. The game brought energy and laughter into the room, reinforcing their knowledge while building team spirit.

For the Healthy Southwest team, trainings like this are about more than just learning new skills. They are opportunities to grow as leaders and community educators, ready to meet their neighbors where they are—whether that’s helping them navigate healthcare systems, connect with resources, or now, avoid online scams. By equipping themselves with both knowledge and confidence, the PHAs continue to strengthen the bonds of trust and support that lie at the heart of their work in the community.

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