Heart Health Leadership Manual

HEART HEALTH AND YOUR COMMUNITY

We Can Change the Way We Live

Daily life within a community has patterns and habits that have been developed over many years; most of the patterns we live by are productive. When we see that we have developed habits that are not helping us, our families, or our community to prosper, it is time to reconsider the way we live.

When people within a community want to make changes in the way they live, or work, they begin by discussing their concerns and ideas in small groups of family and friends, close acquaintances and workplace associates. These discussions, lead some people to make an extra commitment; they dedicate time and energy to helping their community achieve its goals. These people are "Community Leaders."

Are You A Community Leader?

You will find community leaders in many different places: on the Parent Teacher Associations, Town and City Councils, on concerned citizens committees, in church groups, service groups, and on recreation committees. Community leaders may be women or men, young or old. Leaders may be elected, or appointed, paid or volunteers. What all leaders have in common is a commitment to their community, and the energy to turn an idea into reality. Chances are, if you are reading this manual, you are a, community leader.

We Need Your Special Talents

One of the long term goals of the Newfoundland Heart Health Program is to reduce the number of Newfoundlanders and Labradorians at significant risk for Heart Disease. As a leader in your community, you can help make the changes that will bring you, your friends, yourself and family closer to that goal. Most people in your community will already be aware of some Heart Health issues. With the information and resources available to you through this manual, and the accompanying video, you can help us bridge the gap between the idea of Heart Health and its reality.

Your Mission

Your goal is to encourage individuals, community groups, businesses, and governments to promote actions which will improve Heart Health in Newfoundland and Labrador. There are ways to increase awareness at every level in the community.