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APHA Scientific Session and Event Listing

Larry Cohen, MSW, Rachel Davis, MSW, and Lisa Parks, MPH. Prevention Institute, 265 29th St, Oakland, CA 94611, 510-444-7738, Larry@preventioninstitute.org

Like many other counties in the USA, especially those with large urban, low-income populations, Alameda County, California faces serious violence problems. Violence is complex, and as such, requires a comprehensive solution. Under the leadership of County Supervisor Nate Miley, and working across many sectors Alameda County developed The Alameda County Violence Prevention Blueprint. A Leadership Council, chaired by the heads of the County Probation Department and Health Department, is responsible for coordinating violence prevention efforts in the County. The Blueprint was adopted by the Alameda County Board of Supervisors on July 12, 2005. The Public Health Director and the Chief of Probation serve as co-chairs for the Blueprint. The violence prevention work in Alameda County can be seen as a model for future public health cross sector work.

The overarching objective of this effort was to develop a Blueprint for the county that ensures accountability, is driven by leadership, and fosters interdisciplinary collaboration throughout the County to advance local violence prevention outcomes. As part of the process, a diverse group of stakeholders were engaged in the process with a goal of building broad support for and participation in reducing violence. The stakeholders include public and private funders, cities, school districts, county agencies, law enforcement, faith based groups, businesses, and community based organizations. The Blueprint has specific solutions for the county and delineates roles and responsibilities for the multiple sectors and stakeholders. The recommendations are being implemented in specific neighborhoods in the county.

Learning Objectives:

• Learn about a county-wide model for ensuring accountability and coordination on violence prevention
• Understand the role of prevention as a solution to overcoming a violence epidemic
• Understand the importance of a multifaceted strategy aimed at violence prevention

Keywords: Prevention, Violence Prevention

Presenting author's disclosure statement:

Any relevant financial relationships? No