Using the Community Healthy Living Index Tool for School Health

Background: Childhood obesity continues to be one of the nation's leading public health threats. For example in Jefferson County, AL, the rate of overweight 3rd graders increased from 12.8% in 2002 to over 22% in 2009. Purpose: The Community Healthy Living Index (CHLI) is a tool originally developed by YMCA of America along with experts from Stanford, Harvard and St. Louis University, to promote innovate ways that support physical activity and good nutrition in schools, two key determinants of childhood obesity. The Jefferson County Department of Health and Birmingham YMCA are in the process of implementing the CHLI tool in seven schools throughout Jefferson County. Significance: While programs focus on the individual and intrapersonal level of the Social Ecological Model, CHLI emphasizes policy, systems and environmental modifications which have the potential to impact a greater number of children in danger of being overweight. Methodology: The CHLI tool consists of a self-assessment and improvement plan, both of which are conducted by key school stakeholders. The school stakeholders plan, design, and implement improvement ideas tailored to the unique social and economic environment of their school. Results: CHLI school sites have partnered with community partners for the implementation of their improvement ideas. For example one of the schools was able to partner with an existing community garden to increase the availability of fresh fruits and vegetables. Recommendation: In drafting solutions to the childhood obesity epidemic, cooperation and coordination is needed across several entities, including community partners, businesses, and the faith-based community.