Day: August 1, 2024

Investing in Your Community: Ways to Give Back this Summer Investing in Your Community: Ways to Give Back this Summer

August 1, 2024 | Josef | 0 Comment | 12:00 am

Canopy Credit Union is passionate about giving back to the communities and individuals we serve. This summer, we’re inviting our members to join us. Take a look at some of the outstanding local non-profit organizations we partner with and if one of them resonates with you, reach out and volunteer, offer financial support, or learn more about other ways to help.

Here are a few of Canopy’s community partners that would benefit from your investment of time, talent and treasure!

Volunteers of America Spokane, Eastern Washington, and Northern Idaho, specializes in providing care to youth and adults with housing-first solutions and low-barrier access to Services, because homelessness shouldn’t be a life sentence.

Thrive International’s mission is Empowering Multicultural Communities to THRIVE by innovating how local communities respond to the refugee crisis in America. The organization has two transitional housing centers in Washington State that serve refugee families while providing programming and education tailored to their needs. Volunteers are needed to help bring meaningful programs to life!

Women & Children’s Free Restaurant & Community Kitchen provides free, nutritious meals to women and children living in Spokane County. The organization provides a vital safety net that fills nutritional gaps for women and children in need while fostering dignity and respect, both within our restaurant and in the community. Volunteers are needed to help with weekly food distributions.

Habitat for Humanity is a nonprofit organization that helps families build and improve places to call home. Affordable housing plays a critical role in strong and stable communities. Habitat’s goal is to build strength, stability, and self-reliance through shelter. Volunteers are needed to help build affordable homes. Whether you are an experienced homebuilder or have never picked up a hammer, your time and hard work is needed and much appreciated!

Meals on Wheels Spokane has been delivering hot, nutritious meals to elderly, homebound seniors in Spokane since 1967. The organization’s objective is to provide proper nutrition to those individuals who cannot meet the need on their own, regardless of income, race, color, religion, gender, national origin, handicap, or political affiliation.

Spokane Neighborhood Action Partners (SNAP) provides people of low income with access to needed resources, and to help them make the kinds of connections that create opportunity. The organization’s goal is to help build a vibrant community that treats everyone with dignity and respect by advocating for that which is fair, honorable, and equitable.

Transitions works to end poverty and homelessness for women and children in Spokane. They pursue this mission through the operation of Women’s Hearth, Transitional Living Center, EduCare, Miryam’s House, New Leaf Kitchen & Café, and Home Yard Cottages.

Canopy Credit Union

The Oral Microbiome: A Key Player in Your Oral and Systemic Wellness The Oral Microbiome: A Key Player in Your Oral and Systemic Wellness

August 1, 2024 | Josef | 0 Comment | 12:00 am

The Invisible Community That Shapes Your Health

A thriving microscopic world exists in your oral cavity. This microbial ecosystem is known as the oral microbiome. It plays a crucial role in both your oral health and overall well-being in Eicon Dental in Tempe. New research findings have uncovered the deep connections between the oral microbiome and various aspects of human health. Throughout this piece, we’ll delve into the fascinating world of the oral microbiome and its broad influence on our bodies.

What Makes Up Your Mouth’s Microbial Community

The oral microbiome consists of a wide variety of bacteria, along with fungi, viruses, and other microorganisms. These tiny organisms maintain a delicate balance within your mouth, creating protective layers on your teeth, gums, tongue, and other oral surfaces. Despite the potential for some organisms to cause problems, many play important parts in maintaining oral health and defending against harmful pathogens.

The Impact of Oral Bacteria on Dental Wellness

The composition of your oral microbiome has a major Impact on your dental health. Some oral organisms aid in preventing acidic conditions, lowering the chances of cavities. Furthermore, these helpful oral inhabitants can compete with harmful pathogens, helping to protect against gum disease and other oral infections.

On the flip side, when the microbial equilibrium is disturbed, it can lead to an overgrowth of harmful bacteria. This disruption can lead to the Development of dental caries, periodontal disease, and other oral health Issues. Practicing proper dental care plays a vital role in supporting a healthy balance of oral microbes.

How Your Mouth’s Health Affects Your Entire Body

Studies have demonstrated that the oral microbiome’s influence extends far beyond just your mouth. The condition of your oral microbiome can play a crucial role in your overall health and well-being. This connection between oral health and systemic health is known as the oral-systemic link.

Persistent dental issues can contribute to various systemic conditions. To illustrate, evidence suggests associations between periodontal disease and increased risk of heart disease, diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, and even certain types of cancer. Harmful mouth microbes can travel throughout the body, leading to complications in other parts of the body.

Maintaining Oral Microbiome Health

To promote a healthy oral microbiome, consider the following approaches:

Brush and floss regularly: Clean your teeth morning and night and floss for interdental cleaning.
Eat a balanced diet: Nutritious meals with plenty of fiber can promote beneficial bacteria.
Be cautious with antimicrobial products: Unnecessary antibiotic treatments can harm beneficial bacteria.
Stay hydrated: Saliva helps regulate the oral microbiome and washes away harmful bacteria.
Consider probiotic supplements: Certain probiotic strains may support oral health.

The Future of Oral and Overall Health

With ongoing research into oral-systemic health, it becomes increasingly clear that nurturing beneficial mouth microbes is key to preventing various health issues. By adopting good oral hygiene practices, we can support our body’s natural defenses. Remember, a healthy mouth is more than just cavity-free teeth – it’s a key factor of your entire body’s health.