About Sorogi
Learn about Sorogi and how our ADCES-accredited programs improve community health with care for diabetes, pre-diabetes, hypertension, and weight loss.
Health
Wellness
About Sorogi
We empower people to live healthier lives by providing culturally sensitive resources to help individuals manage diabetes, pre-diabetes, hypertension, and weight loss, focusing on community health.
Minority communities in the US have long been underserved when it comes to care for chronic conditions. We know what it’s like to feel like your doctor didn’t take the time to listen to your concerns, that you were never taught where to get or how to make healthy food, or that the standard nutrition advice seems impossible, expensive, or telling you to ditch your favorite comfort foods that made many hard days more liveable. If any of that sounds familiar, you’re not alone. But there is a better way.
Sorogi’s accessible, evidence-based Diabetes Self-Management Education and Support (DSMES) program is accredited by the Association of Diabetes Care and Education Specialists (ADCES) and is designed to improve health outcomes while respecting the values and lifestyles of all participants, regardless of their background.
We celebrate and appreciate cultural differences. “Sorogi” comes from a Nigerian saying, meaning “I walk with you”. It’s a truth that we live every day, helping people to overcome the challenges of managing a chronic health condition as we walk hand-in-hand toward a healthier, happier life.
Our story
Sorogi’s journey began in Washington, DC, with Dr. Vivian Nacho Ayuk, a pharmacist who recognized that traditional healthcare approaches were failing her patients in the African-American community she served. Chronic conditions like diabetes, hypertension, and obesity were disproportionately impacting minority groups, costing lives and leading patients to feel neglected and misunderstood by the healthcare system.
Envisioning a more effective, personalized way to address these challenges in her community, Dr. Ayuk initiated the Diabetes Self-Management Education and Support (DSMES) program to help patients manage diabetes with hands-on support and practical education from professionals and peers who understood their unique needs and values.
The program quickly gained traction, and Sorogi’s pharmacy became the first in the District of Columbia (DC) to receive national accreditation by ADCES and partial recognition from the CDC as a provider of the National Diabetes Prevention Program.
Today, the DC Department of Health recognizes and supports Sorogi’s commitment to saving lives and advocating for underserved populations. Sorogi now partners with the DC Department of Health to offer our services free of charge to Washington, DC residents. Our programs combine in-person and telehealth services to support and improve community health access. Our mission has remained the same since day one—to ensure everyone gets the support they need to live healthier lives.
Our programs
Each of our programs is crafted with an understanding of the unique challenges faced by underserved populations, offering personalized guidance and practical support for sustainable health improvements:
Our values
At Sorogi, our values define who we are and shape our approach to healthcare.
Community
Sorogi is deeply committed to improving community health and reaching underserved populations such as Black, Hispanic, Middle Eastern, and Asian communities. We understand these populations’ unique challenges and work tirelessly to bridge healthcare gaps through accessible, culturally appropriate programs. Our programs are free for Washington, DC residents and set at affordable, flexible plans in other areas. Family members are encouraged to join the programs, building a solid support network that spreads better health outcomes throughout the community. Our accreditation by ADCES reflects our dedication to providing quality, impactful care.
Culture
Sorogi’s programs are tailored to respect and incorporate participants’ cultural values. Whether it’s healthier recipes for soul food favorites, respect for diverse body types, or guidance on how to fit exercises into our busy lives, we’re all about making positive changes without giving up your roots. We provide dietary guidance, activities, and care models that align with the traditions of each community, ensuring every aspect of our program resonates with the people we serve.
Care
We believe in compassionate, individualized support that meets each person’s needs. Our team spends real, quality time with participants, understanding their unique journeys and challenges. Everyone deserves access to the resources they need to live a healthier life, and we aim for every participant to complete the program with improved health, confidence, and happiness.
Explore careers at Sorogi
At Sorogi, our values define who we are and shape our approach to healthcare.
Partnerships
Sorogi’s impact wouldn’t be possible without the support of our partners. We collaborate with healthcare providers, pharmacies, and community health organizations to extend our reach and offer comprehensive support to more individuals.
Our alignment with professional associations like the ADCES strengthens our ability to deliver on our promise of quality, community-centered care.
Through our provider training courses, we empower pharmacies and health centers to offer enhanced care, improving health outcomes and helping providers meet their value-based care and health equity goals.
Certifications & Awards
Our dedication to health equity and community-based care has earned Sorogi numerous accolades.
Health Equity Award (2019)
Recognized for our impactful work addressing health disparities in underserved communities.
ADCES Accreditation
Sorogi is accredited by the Association of Diabetes Care and Education Specialists, highlighting our commitment to the highest standards of diabetes care and education.