Enhancing statewide networking: Rebuilding an APHA Affiliate

Throughout the years, APHA Affiliates have proven themselves to play key roles in public health at the state and local levels. As is often the case with primarily volunteer organizations, Affiliates may find themselves in periods of inactivity. The purpose of this presentation is to provide tools and ideas for re-activation of a dormant Affiliate or chapter. During the past three years, the Nevada Public Health Association (NPHA) has re-emerged as a key partner in the promotion, protection, and expansion of public health in Nevada. After a several year hiatus, the Association has been re-invigorated through the initial efforts of a core group of public health professionals and with a great deal of support from the public health community at large. The ongoing process of developing this network of people, programs, and agencies across the state serves the dual functions of forging statewide relationships while strengthening the Association itself. Acknowledgment and participation from all levels of the public health community, ongoing communication with members, and a variety of potential means of involvement for members have been major factors in the success of this reorganization. Outcomes from three short years of effort include: a tripling in statewide membership, an annual conference drawing over one-hundred participants each year, and the development of one of the only Affiliate journals. Our success in Nevada can serve as a model for other states in rebuilding an effective public health network based upon a strong Affiliate.