Volume 11 — September 18, 2014
COMMUNITY CASE STUDY
Using Community Advisory Boards to Reduce Environmental Barriers to Health in American Indian Communities, Wisconsin, 2007–2012
In Phase 1, the processes were to identify environmental barriers to and supports for healthy lifestyles, to have experts educate CABs in relevant areas of knowledge, and to design community-based environmental assessments. In Phase 2, the processes were 1) to conduct assessments by using focus groups, key informant interviews, systematic surveys, direct observations, and GIS mapping and 2) to consult with experts on the process. In Phase 3, the processes were 1) to develop interventions targeting change in systems, policy, or built environments and 2) to implement interventions. New issues that occur after Phase 3 are addressed by starting again with Phase 1.
Figure 1. Community advisory board (CAB) work flow for creation of community-based interventions to promote healthy lifestyles, Wisconsin, 2007–2012. Abbreviation: GIS, geographic information system.
The playground, adjacent to a day care center and Head Start buildings, has areas for traditional activities, such as a willow lodge, and a ricing canoe.
Figure 2. Early plan for Bad River Playground, Wisconsin. University of Wisconsin Associate Professor Sam Dennis (landscape architecture) worked with tribal elders to design the playground at the Bad River Head Start following principles of natural playgrounds, which encourage imaginative and creative play.
Peas and beans grow in a community garden.
Figure 3. A garden planted on the grounds of the Menominee Tribal Food Distribution agency, Wisconsin. Both public and private gardens were planted.
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