CTSA: Alameda, CA Vignette
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Community Themes and Strengths Assessment The Livermore neighborhood encompasses a 12-block area within Alameda County, CA. A unique partnership was formed among the residents of Livermore, the Livermore Community Policing Unit, and Alameda County Health Department (ACHD). Using community-themed activities and a community-driven process, the partners have begun to identify and solve local problems. Residents and the Community Policing Unit initiated the partnership after a series of drive-by shootings in the neighborhood. The police department initially responded with an enforcement sweep, which minimized gang and drug-related activities. The police department then provided a street barbecue and clean-up day for the neighborhood. Residents were pleased with the efforts and offered to work with the police on future safety issues. The police saw the potential for establishing a community-based effort and invited ACHD to participate. Shared goals were identified:
All partners shared a commitment to broad health outcomes, nontraditional problem solving, asset-based approaches to change, and community-building strategies. Residents were invited to a public meeting where the police and health departments introduced key staff and explained crime issues and the goals of a partnership. A brief written survey was conducted to determine areas of concern and residents were invited to a follow-up meeting. The neighborhood coalition was soon formalized with a resident chair and representatives from the police and health departments to provide staff support. A visioning process was conducted, providing the basis for the assessment and planning process. The coalition is currently designing a neighborhood assessment. The commitment of its members is evidenced by attendance at weekly planning meetings held in the homes of members. Residents will be recruited and trained to conduct a door-to- door survey. This is a participatory process that transfers skills and information to residents in the design of the information-gathering tools, the implementation, and the development of a written plan that holds all the partners accountable. The first success occurred when the coalition approached an apartment owner about noise, reckless driving, street drinking, and litter. The coalition was successful where previous actions by the police and others had been unsuccessful, and the complex has remained quiet and clean. The power of collective action was felt by all the members. The outcomes of neighborhood work will affect multiple areas of health and will be replicated in other areas throughout the county.
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