APA HEALIN': A Collaborative Approach to Healthy Eating and Active Living in the Asian Pacific American Community of New York

Prevalence of cardiovascular disease is linked to physical inactivity and unhealthy eating in the rapidly growing Asian Pacific American (APA) community. In 2009, Asian Pacific Americans Health Eating and Active Living In our Neighborhoods (APA HEALIN') was formed to address food systems, healthy eating, active living, and built environment disparities in APA communities of New York City. The six community-based organizations (CBOs) in the collaborative provided culturally- and linguistically-tailored activities and education to their respective communities.

During the initial year, the coalition undertook a community needs assessment utilizing community surveys and a photovoice project. Building on the assessment, CBOs received capacity building and technical assistance to develop particular healthy eating and active living (HEAL) objectives for their constituents and networks. Notable activities include a community gardens assessment; organizing Play Streets and walk audits; facilitating nutrition/food security and urban agriculture workshops; and partnering with restaurants to include healthy menu options. In collaboration with a national organization, APA HEALIN’ participated in a month-long, nationwide campaign to increase HEAL participation and education in APA communities.

CBO partners reached the Cambodian, Chinese, Filipino, Indian, Indo-Caribbean, Korean, Nepali, Tibetan, and Vietnamese communities. Residents and local stakeholders benefited by participating in these community-led initiatives, but many raised concerns regarding the lack of resources and supports to address HEAL issues intrinsic to their communities. Throughout the duration of the partnership, CBOs engaged and developed relations with local businesses, community institutions, and government entities. Current and future plans include undertaking geographic information system (GIS) community mapping; drafting a culturally and linguistically competent walk audit curriculum; and assessing the impact of sugar-sweetened beverages-related legislation on the APA community.

As a pan-Asian group actively empowering ethnic communities, we will share best practices and lessons learned in education, collaboration, and multisectoral involvement to advocate for community- and policy-level HEAL changes.