The 131st Annual Meeting (November 15-19, 2003) of APHA

Abstract #60784

Rachel Davis, MSW, Larry Cohen, MSW, Shailushi Baxi, MPH, and Danice Cook. Prevention Institute, 265 29th Street, Oakland, CA 94611, 510-444-7738, rachel@preventioninstitute.org

Poor health and safety outcomes, including chronic disease, traffic-related injuries, mental illness, substance abuse, teen pregnancy, and violence are disproportionately high among low-income people and people of color in the United States. In addition, the impact of racism and oppression increases numerous risk factors for illness and injury, including reduced access to fresh nutritious foods, fewer opportunities for physical activity, greater exposure to environmental toxins, and substandard housing and neighborhood conditions.

Too often, however, policy efforts seek to reduce risk, while overlooking existing strengths already present in these communities. “Resilience” is the ability to thrive despite risk factors, and studies show that resilience factors can counteract the negative impact of risk factors. Most resilience efforts have focused on individuals; however, there are community level conditions that support health and well being for the entire community. These conditions can and must be supported through local, state, and federal policies if health disparities are to be eliminated.

Prevention Institute has developed T.H.R.I.V.E. (Tool for Health and Resilience In Vulnerable Environments), a research-based assessment tool that can help communities identify existing assets and prioritize areas for action. This session will highlight specific aspects of the research and development process, the factors that are measured by the tool, and policy implications. The factors fall into 4 broad areas: Built Environment, Social Capital, Services and Institutions, and Macro Factors. By addressing each of these clusters, policymakers can strengthen communities and the health and safety outcomes within them.

Learning Objectives:

1.Understand the elements of the T.H.R.I.V.E. tool to assess resilience factors within a community.
• Identify policy implications in the areas of built environment, social capital, services and institutions, and macro factors.

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.