Transformation for Health: A Participatory Empowerment Education Training Model in the Faith Community

Abstract

Abstract As a result of new public health science and economic forces, greater emphasis is being placed on coalition building, partnerships, advocacy, and community empowerment. New skills are needed for community health educators, particularly for building relationships that will facilitate collaboration and reduce powerlessness associated with poor health. The purpose of this article is to describe an application of participatory education methods in a hospital–based, community–oriented training project. It addresses one approach to a question now often asked, “How do professionals learn to value sharing power and decision–making with individuals and the community?” By providing participatory, empowerment training, The Mercy Hospital of Pittsburgh has demonstrated what is possible for health care institutions seeking ways to develop effective partnerships with the community. At the same time, their actions identify a significant role the faith community can play in creating healthy communities.