Module 2: Creating an Obesity Prevention Program: Where to Begin
Obesity has many causes and no single solution, but rural communities have many strengths and resources that can help to solve the problem. Communities can form networks to bring together stakeholders with different backgrounds, expertise, and existing resources to develop local solutions.
Developing Solutions Through Community Networks
A diverse group of community stakeholders, including community members and organizations, should be invited to
participate in community networks. Networks are more likely to be effective when they can offer:
- Social value
- Common goals
- Rewards and incentives
- Comprehensive and coordinated approaches
Community networks can begin to develop solutions by conducting the following activities:
- Mapping community assets and needs
- Prioritizing needed changes
- Planning an approach
When identifying the targets for change, communities should prioritize those that can be accomplished using evidence-based interventions. For more information on how to achieve this, see Identifying Evidence-Based and Promising Program Models in the Rural Community Health Toolkit.