Table 5.

Suggestions for Creating a Healthier Community

Education	▪Hands-on nutrition education ▪Interactive classes ▪Don’t make it boring ▪Free exercise classes
Plan more Community events	▪Host a 5k in the city, like jamborees, health fairs, free screenings, fun activities like dance competitions and exercise competitions at parks
Become more visible	▪Have people (WA, HCL, others) speak about how they have benefited; how the project will benefit the community, explain exactly how the project supports the community, market current walking groups more
Holistic Approach	▪Involve all generations ▪Include mental health ▪Be culturally and socially aware of the fact that Petersburg is predominantly black
Partnerships	▪Team up with the school system ▪Link with national programs ▪Partner with local churches
Access	▪Create local fruit and veggie stands ▪Have a van drive around neighborhoods with produce for sale ▪Grow community gardens
Stay the Course Watch language	▪Keep doing what you have been doing ▪Use positive messages, “don’t let obese or overweight children or adults feel disrespected”