The Rhode Island Prevention Coalition (PREVCO) is a public-private partnership of health care providers, insurers, voluntary agencies, universities, professional organizations, and others who are dedicated to improving the health of Rhode Island residents. PREVCO has gathered over $600,000 in funding for infrastructure and programs through contributions from member organizations. Member organizations have also provided significant in-kind support. The first state-wide initiative of PREVCO is to increase physical activity among all residents. In 1997, PREVCO made 15 grants to community-based organizations to promote physical activity, and another seven grants were made in 1998 to strengthen the physical infrastructure for physical activity in communities. In 1998, PREVCO brought the Irish Heart Foundation's "Sli na Slainte" (Path to Health) program to the USA, with the American Heart Association as the USA franchisee. The Sli Path to Health is an innovative environmental change program that installs walking paths on existing sidewalks located in close proximity to where people live and work. PREVCO has received 2 grants to develop the infrastructure and to evaluate the effectiveness of the Path to Health program. In 2000, community-based grants are being made to promote walking and the use of the paths. A strategic planning process was completed in 1999, and PREVCO is working to implement the goals and objectives identified as part of the process. A new health promotion nutrition initiative area was recently identified and a task force is currently developing a statewide implementation and fundraising plan. Details about the organizational processes will be presented.
Learning Objectives: 1. To describe a public-private partnership for health promotion 2. To discuss the process of partnership development 3. To discuss the ongoing challenges of a coalition effort
Keywords: Community-Based Health Promotion, Community-Based Partnership
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.