Website to raise profile of volunteer Community Health Boards

A new website designed to help share information about and between the 37 volunteer Community Health Boards (CHBs) across the province is now live.

Community Health Boards are an incredible network of more than 400 volunteers who work in partnership with District Health Authorities and other organizations to support community-based projects and partnerships and help promote healthy living.

CHB members hope that the new website will give people direct access to general information and help to raise awareness, support and encourage others to help make a difference by getting involved with their local boards.

"This is a useful communication tool for both CHB members, staff working to support these volunteers and anyone in the community that is interested in getting involved," says Janet Mooney, Chair of the Eastern Kings Community Health Board.

"It’s is an opportunity for the community to have a central location for CHB information. The website gives people a look at what CHBs do, their overall role, and goals in the community they serve. CHBs act as the eyes, ears and voice of the community. This web gives a chance to show people across Nova Scotia and beyond the many great things that CHBs and their communities are doing. I encourage you to connect to www.communityhealthboards.ns.ca."

The website project was developed with significant support from the Nova Scotia Association of Health Organizations (NSAHO), District CHB coordinators and public relations staff from districts across the province based on feedback from Community Health Boards.

The Community Health Boards are recognized under the Health Authorities Act. In Annapolis Valley Health, there are five CHBs. While districts work to promote and educate people about healthier choices through a population health model, the CHBs enhance that commitment by sponsoring and supporting various community-based initiatives.

One way this is done is through the development of a CHB Community Health Plan. This plan helps the district to understand the health needs and challenges in a community. The plans also support the district’s overall business planning, program planning and Strategic Directions.