1. Growing Wellness Networks in NB Building capacity for wellness through partnership and shared engagement Jessica Sargent – HEPAC Co-Chair Diane Savoie – HEPAC Wellness Coordinator

2. What is HEPAC? A network of organizations and individuals working together to promote healthy active lifestyles for the people of New Brunswick. Steering committee of 7 non-government organizations and 5 government departments Working to build capacity among New Brunswick communities to improve the level of wellness in their communities.

3. What are wellness networks? Characteristics: Formal or informal networks Usually geographical in nature May be membership based (e.g. a provincial association)

4. What are wellness networks? Qualities Common issue of concern around wellness Common motivating factors Shared desire to do something Shared commitment to action

5. How to support wellness networks? Sensitivities Readiness Needs-based

6. Purpose To engage and support wellness networks, communities and individuals in their efforts to positively impact the healthy eating habits and physical activity levels of all New Brunswickers, including vulnerable populations.

7. Demonstration Sites (2009-2010)  Fredericton Region  Miramichi Region  Southeast Region  Charlo  Chaleur  West Saint John  Millville  Grand Bay Westfield  Tobique  Fredericton Region  Miramichi Region  Southeast Region  Charlo  Chaleur  West Saint John  Millville  Grand Bay Westfield  Tobique

8. New networks (2010-2011)  Acadian Peninsula  Acadie South  Saint John  Deer Island  Western Valley Region  Boiestown-Doaktown  Grand Falls  Saint-Quentin  Acadian Peninsula  Acadie South  Saint John  Deer Island  Western Valley Region  Boiestown-Doaktown  Grand Falls  Saint-Quentin

9. How is HEPAC supporting wellness networks?

10. What does the support look like? Wellness Coordinators Sharing opportunities Help with marketing & communication Help with research & evaluation Facilitated access to grants

11. What does the support look like? Community wellness profiles Website Webinars Annual Forum Access to specialists in physical activity and healthy eating

12. Community Wellness Profiles Wellness indicators specific to the region (by postal code): Demographics Top five chronic diseases Physical activity levels Tobacco use Mental Fitness Healthy Eating (now includes level of household food insecurity)

13. What does the support look like? Evidence based resources: Physical activity promotion Healthy eating promotion Community mobilization model

14. Wellness networks and food security? Existing links with communities Access to resources such as data, partnerships, marketing and communication, evaluation, etc. Potential partner for community based approaches to address food insecurity: Community gardens Teaching kitchens Cooking clubs Buying clubs