La Vocera

La Vocera is IPS’ Spanish-language WhatsApp initiative designed to deliver clear and timely public health information directly to Hispanic and Latine immigrant families in San Diego County’s border region, many of whom experience significant gaps in care due to language barriers and low trust in institutions. La Vocera meets them where they already are with content that is easy to understand, actionable, and geared to increase their engagement with health care.

Developed in 2022 in partnership with Latine and Hispanic residents and San Diego State University, La Vocera sends short, helpful messages about behavioral health, youth wellbeing, local resources, emergency alerts, and state programs, all delivered in Spanish and tailored to meet the needs of immigrant households.

Supported by a network of promotoras (trusted health workers), IPS recruits families, supports registration, and drive ongoing engagement.

In partnership with local organizations such as Casa Familiar, IPS hosts monthly registration sessions and community pláticas, helping families sign up, navigate the platform, and receive personalized support.

La Vocera represents a new model of community-powered communication – one that centers trusted messengers, cultural competency, and accessible technology to reduce health information gaps and support immigrant families’ wellbeing.