Recognizing that research practices built on community partnerships often produce more effective interventions and outcomes, the Charities is committed to advancing community health through community-based research and informed grantmaking.
Since 1999 Healthy Neighborhood Initiatives (HNIs) have worked collaboratively with residents and organizations within underserved communities to assess and address health issues. Upon invitation from a community resident, a City Council member or organization the Charities becomes a catalyst in a participatory effort to create a healthier, sustainable community.
Our Community Health Information System (CHIS) provides basic information to identify underserved neighborhoods. The Charities' researchers first assess the community's ability to sustain and support the study. When ready, the researchers collaborate with organizations and residents to assess critical needs and find community members willing to train for and participate as researchers who then recruit groups for the study, and interview identified information sources.
