Phase 1: Mobilizing for Change

The initial steps for planning and implementing a Healthy Communities Program, once the target community is determined, are as follows.

An initial workshop at a site in the community should provide an overview of the Healthy Communities planning process and should identify the strengths and weaknesses in planning for change in a community. Participants assess training and data needs and devise strategies to collect appropriate information to set priorities for future planning activities.

1. Identify key community stakeholders
2. Develop a broad definition of health
3. Identify the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats in a community
4. Assess training needs
5. Evaluate data needs and conduct a rapid assessment of community needs (this information will be further defined in Phase 3)

• Community strengths and weaknesses are identified
• Training needs are assessed
• Plans are developed for the team exchange trip
• Preliminary work plan and memorandum of understanding completed

Click the icon to continue to step through the AIHA Healthy Communities planning process: