Patricia D. Parsons, MPH, CHES, Jessica NJ Kelly, MPH, CHES, and Elizabeth Rink, LCSW, CHES. Benton County Health Department, 530 NW 27th Street, PO Box 579, Corvallis, OR 93770, 541-766-6659, Patricia.D.Parsons@co.benton.or.us

In this presentation we will describe the South Benton Community Center at Alpine (SBCCA), a community based partnership between local rural residents, timber and farm owners, small rural businesses owners and the Benton County Health Department. SBCCA is using a participatory community based process that mobilizes members of a rural environment to foster social capital and reclaim a sense of community, in order to address health problems. The presentation will describe the use of social determinants of health model as a conceptual framework for community development in a rural setting. Environmental factors, which impact the health of the community will be defined. The presentation will highlight the importance of social and community factors in individual and community health outcomes. A “design charrette” strategy will be characterized to illustrate the engagement of rural residents, schools, the local health department and community-based organizations, such as churches and volunteer organizations. Results from the process include a community-planning tool, which builds on the capacity and skills of local residents.

Learning Objectives: Participants will be able to

• Describe the social determinants of health as a conceptual framework for community development in a rural setting;
• Describe two strategies for community planning to engage community members in a rural environment; and
• Describe two methods to leverage funding and build community resources in a rural setting.

Keywords: Community Building, Rural Communities

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.