Action for Healthy Communities

Action for Healthy Communities Society of Edmonton (AHC) is a non-profit organization based in Edmonton that has, since 1995, been increasing the capacity of individuals, families, and communities to build healthy lives in healthy communities, using a community development model and approach. AHC works with community members from diverse backgrounds to create community-based initiatives that address issues of health and well being.
AHC has supported thousands of people to use their skills, knowledge, culture, and values to work with others in developing a shared vision around a need and create and implement a plan of action, a mini-project, around it.

Metamorphosis Video

This film shows concrete successes of group of people that by working together have built new capacities to act upon community issues.

Background

The idea of creating AHC "emerged in the mid 1990's when a group of individuals from the healthcare sector came together to discuss how to strengthen community groups and increase public participation in defining and solving health issues. These discussions led to the development of a participatory process that enabled citizens and communities of central Edmonton to voice their views and concerns about wellness and healthcare reforms. As a result of this process, Action for Healthy Communities Society of Edmonton was formed.
The name of the society was Edmonton Health Care Citizenship Society (EHCS) until June, 2007. It was incorporated in 1995 under the Societies Act and in 1999 as a charitable organization". From working with people in inner city since 1995, AHC extended its target to Greater Edmonton in June 2007.

Vision

Action for Healthy Communities Society of Edmonton's Vision is "A vibrant Greater Edmonton of active citizens committed to using their skills, knowledge, culture, and values to work together with other residents in addressing community health issues and building stronger communities." following the World Health Organization concept "Health is a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity" (1948, http://www.who.int/about/definition/en).

Mission

Action for Healthy Communities Society of Edmonton's is Mission is "to building stronger and healthier communities through a community building process that fosters citizen participation and action to improve the health of the community".

Objective

Action for Healthy Communities Society of Edmonton's Objective (Object) is to improve the lives of people and the communities in which they live through the provision of public education and other initiatives to enable individuals to enhance their own lives.

Values

Collaboration - We encourage community members to work together toward common goals based on shared concerns and values.
Participation - We are dedicated to a process that fosters community participation in activities that improve health and wellbeing.
Personal Development - We believe that continuous reflection and learning is essential for self-motivation and reaching potential.
Advocacy - We support people to be advocates for their own lives.
Equity - We practice and promote fair conduct to ensure staff and volunteers are given equal opportunity.
Cultural Sensitivity - We are sensitive to the diverse cultural needs of the community.