The publication

This publication provides a summary of the 2008 Healthy Communities and the Built Environment project and includes learnings and conclusions from the project. Additional information is conveyed through a collection of modules, each module relating to a particular aspect of how the built environment impacts health and containing a positive message of how communities can be designed to promote health. Case studies are used throughout to illustrate points made in the various modules. Regardless of our sector or profession, we all have a role to play. Key strategies for building healthier communities are outlined and a listing of tools and resources is provided.

The agenda

The program will begin with a brief talk by Lorna Heidenheim, Executive Director of the Ontario Healthy Communities Coalition, on the origins of the Healthy Communities and the Built Environment project, as well as the objectives and outcomes of this collaborative initiative. Three of the authors of articles in the publication will be featured and will discuss their work and activities. With the completion of all presentations, there will be an opportunity for a question and answer session and panel discussion. The meeting will adjourn promptly at noon.

Speaker Bios:

Chris Black is currently with the Ministry of Natural Resources. He holds an undergraduate degree in Environment, Resources & Development (Honours Specialization) from the University of Western Ontario as well as a graduate degree in Rural Planning and Development from the School of Environmental Design and Rural Development at the University of Guelph. His area of interest includes small-town revitalization and healthy rural communities.

__________________________________________________________________________________________________ Michelle Gold is Senior Director, Policy and Programs at the Canadian Mental Health Association, Ontario. She provides leadership in public policy, as well as providing provincial level advise on health and intersectoral system planning to promote mental health and support people with mental illness.

__________________________________________________________________________________________________ Candace Wormsbecker has a Masters degree in Environmental Studies from the University of Waterloo specializing in Local Food Systems. Currently, she is the Community Garden Capacity Builder for the Diggable Communities Collaborative, a partnership between the Region of Waterloo Public Health, Opportunities Waterloo Region and the Region of Waterloo Community Garden Council.