Webinar Wednesday: Birthing Centers as a Source for Vaccine Information
Vaccine hesitancy remains a significant public health challenge, particularly in maternal and newborn health. As trusted sources of guidance and care, birthing center staff and professionals are uniquely positioned to support families in making informed decisions about vaccines. These conversations require a blend of knowledge, empathy, and effective communication strategies.
This engaging and interactive webinar is designed to equip birthing center professionals—many of whom may have limited experience with vaccines—with the tools and confidence needed to foster informed, trust-based conversations about immunizations. Whether you're new to this topic or have your own hesitations, this session will provide a supportive and non-judgmental space to explore the science, common concerns, and strategies for vaccine education.
Participants will learn to:
- Understand the importance of maternal and early childhood vaccinations in protecting families and communities.
- Identify and address common myths and misconceptions about vaccines.
- Build trust with parents using evidence-based communication techniques tailored to their concerns.
- Incorporate vaccine education into routine prenatal and postnatal care to align with birthing center values.
Join us to deepen your understanding, strengthen your skills, and become a trusted advocate for vaccine confidence within the families you serve. Together, we can promote healthier futures for birthing people, babies, and communities alike.
Webinar Wednesday is a FREE benefit of AABC Membership. Guests may attend for a fee ($45). Registration is required.
Presenter
Karen Ernst, MA, Director of Voices for Vaccines
Karen Ernst is the Director of Voices for Vaccines, a nationally recognized organization dedicated to advancing vaccine confidence through community-driven advocacy. A respected thought leader in public health engagement, Ms. Ernst specializes in fostering peer-to-peer networks that empower families and community organizations to champion vaccine uptake. Under her leadership, Voices for Vaccines has gained prominence for its innovative use of podcasting, social media, online learning platforms, and advocacy training to reshape the vaccine acceptance landscape.
Before joining The Task Force for Global Health, Ms. Ernst pursued a career in education, teaching composition at St. Catherine University in Saint Paul, MN, and high school English. Her professional journey also includes authoring a historical account of the Twin Cities Habitat for Humanity and developing its Speaker’s Bureau handbook. Personal encounters with vaccine-preventable diseases and vaccine hesitancy fueled her passion for public health advocacy.
Ms. Ernst holds a Master of Arts degree in English Literature and Writing from Hamline University in Saint Paul, MN. Her unique blend of communication, education, and advocacy expertise continues to drive impactful initiatives that promote nationwide vaccine acceptance.
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