Oral

Those programs that are most effective are those that have “buy-in” from the community. This is accomplished by having communities participate in identifying, addressing, and mitigating hazards in their community using methods that are culturally-appropriate. This session will examine four examples of how researchers interacted with ethnically-varied communities to identify environmental problems. Ideas will also be presented on how the participatory planning process can empower communities to work more effectively with governmental and non-profit agencies to reach shared goals.

Session Objectives: 1) Evaluate various methods used to involve community members in creating a safer and healthier environment. 2) Identify culturally-appropriate strategies used in the various communities. 3) Compare and contrast the effectiveness of participatory methods in organizing communities to address environmental problems.

CE Credits: Medical (CME), Health Education (CHES), Nursing (CNE), Public Health (CPH) , Masters Certified Health Education Specialist (MCHES)