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Opportunities and challenges in facilitating a successful food and fitness policy council to promote local policy, systems and environmental changes
In 2011, Cambridge convened a citywide Food and Fitness Policy Council to create a strategic direction and enhance citywide policy, systems and environmental changes through a collaborative approach. This advisory council, appointed by the City Manager, is facilitated by public health staff and includes city department staff, community-based organizations, and residents.
Through a facilitated consensus building process, the council developed a logic model and “Roadmap” with strategies and projected outcomes, has established work groups, and plans to roll out the “Roadmap” citywide. The “Roadmap” will build on the strong foundation that already exists in Cambridge and build on success through enhanced collaboration and a common vision.
The presentation will include the facilitated consensus building process in creating the “Roadmap”, coalition building, and initial outcomes of the collaboration. This session will provide perspective on opportunities and challenges in facilitating a successful municipal and community-based Food and Fitness Policy Council.
Learning Objectives:
Assess feasibility and benefits of a food and fitness policy council
Discuss the role of city government in facilitating policy, systems, and environmental change
Identify opportunities and challenges in establishing consensus regarding food and fitness policy.
Keywords: Collaboration, Policy/Policy Development
Qualified on the content I am responsible for because: In my position of nutritionist at the Cambridge Public Health Department, with a role in promoting healthy eating and fitness in Cambridge in regard to policy, practices, and environmental and systems change, I am the facilitator of the Cambridge Food and Fitness Policy Council.
Any relevant financial relationships? No
I agree to comply with the American Public Health Association Conflict of Interest and Commercial Support Guidelines, and to disclose to the participants any off-label or experimental uses of a commercial product or service discussed in my presentation.