268286 A multi-faceted approach to grassroots advocacy and public health policy

Monday, October 29, 2012 : 5:30 PM - 5:50 PM

Lindsay Bacon, LLMSW , National Kidney Foundation of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI
Policy change is a sustainable way to impact community health. Fourteen months ago, diverse organizations and community residents mobilized into coalitions that utilize grassroots advocacy efforts to improve the health of Inkster, Flint, and Northwest Detroit, Michigan residents. The coalitions received training about levels of policy change, such as organizational, local, and state-level policies, and multiple strategies to influence policy. One-page advocacy guides were provided to use when advocating for changes. Policy makers are invited to attend monthly coalition meetings and other community events. Residents of all three communities attend the annual Diabetes and Kidney Advocacy Day held at the state capitol. During this meeting, residents received additional training on advocating for policy change and were provided an opportunity to meet with their legislators. Initial results of this five-year project include improved relationships with local policy makers and an increased knowledge of how to influence public policy. Coalitions have advocated for policies related to healthy restaurant menus in Northwest Detroit and the cities of Inkster and Flint have established resolutions addressing the health of their communities. Future expectations are to establish healthier worksite policies, improve the availability of fresh fruits and vegetables in these communities, and further empower residents to get involved in policy change. In conclusion, this project has demonstrated that a multi-faceted approach to grassroots advocacy can impact public health policy. Educating and empowering community residents and building relationships with policy makers are key components to garnering support for change.

Learning Areas:
Advocacy for health and health education
Chronic disease management and prevention
Public health or related public policy

Learning Objectives:
Describe the actions associated with grassroots lobbying. Formulate a one-page advocacy guide for grassroots advocacy.

Keywords: Advocacy, Public Policy

Presenting author's disclosure statement:

Qualified on the content I am responsible for because: I have been serving as the Pulic Policy Coordinator at the National Kidney Foundation of Michigan for over a year. I have an MSW with concentrations in social policy. In addition I have been a team member on a federally funded project to address diabetes related complications in vulnerable populations. I have experience with multiple levels of advocacy from grassroots lobbying to advocating for federal legislations related to public health.
Any relevant financial relationships? No

I agree to comply with the American Public Health Association Conflict of Interest and Commercial Support Guidelines, and to disclose to the participants any off-label or experimental uses of a commercial product or service discussed in my presentation.