Capacity building opportunities in the National Children's Study

University of Colorado Denver has been selected to conduct the NCS in Douglas County, located in the southern portion of the Denver metropolitan area of the State of Colorado. Important characteristics of Douglas County are the suburban/ rural character, the rapid population growth, the predominance of wealthy, non-Hispanic white inhabitants, the modest community-based health organizations, and the fact that most health care activities are conducted through facilities located outside the County. The study team is working with health care professionals and community leaders to invite women who are pregnant or are likely to become pregnant to participate in the NCS. The study builds on strong partnerships with local hospitals, local and state health departments, schools and other community-based organizations. Our approach to engaging local communities relies on identifying stakeholders, organizations and individual families reflecting a broad scope of activities and interests. A number of formative evaluation strategies are being used, including: stakeholder sampling, round tables, focus groups within various locations (schools, churches, health centers, health fairs, hospitals, mother support groups, etc.) to identify community members' concerns, barriers and sensitive issues, and to gather opinions regarding solutions to these challenges. Our community engagement plan also includes establishing a Community Advisory Board. Findings from the study will benefit all Americans by providing researchers, health care providers, and public health officials with information from which to develop prevention strategies, health and safety guidelines, and possibly new treatments and cures for diseases.