Engaging Communities and Advocacy Strategies

Dr. Donna Gruel introduces advocacy in public health, defining it as working for positive change. She explains that advocacy varies by context and provides examples like petitions and town halls. Constituency is defined as those served by an organization. Engagement involves knowing, establishing, building, and mobilizing relationships. Five participation levels are outlined: outreach, consult, involve, collaborate, and shared leadership. Interaction strategies include authoritative, competitive, cooperation, and disruption. Case studies highlight the importance of understanding community needs. The video concludes with a call to engage and empower communities.

What is the primary goal of advocacy?

• To oppose all forms of change

• To work on behalf of others to make a positive change

• To maintain the status quo

• To promote personal interests

Which of the following is NOT an example of advocacy?

• Urging officials to vote for a policy

• Ignoring community concerns

• Signing a petition

• Hosting a town hall meeting

What does the term 'constituency' refer to?

• A group of people served by an organization

• A government agency

• A political party

• A type of advocacy action

Which element is NOT part of engaging constituencies?

• Establishing strategies

• Ignoring feedback

• Knowing the community

• Building networks

What is the first level of participation in engaging communities?

• Outreach

• Involve

• Collaborate

• Consult

At which level does shared leadership occur?

• Consult

• Involve

• Shared leadership

• Outreach

Which strategy involves policy and enforcement?

• Authoritative

• Cooperation

• Disruption

• Competitive

What is a competitive strategy aimed at?

• Ignoring community needs

• Making an option more attractive

• Enforcing policies

• Disrupting adversaries

Why is understanding constituency needs important?

• To avoid community engagement

• To empower them to meet their needs

• To focus solely on organizational goals

• To impose external priorities

What was the top priority for the Southern California community?

• Air quality

• Healthcare access

• Economic development

• Community safety