Courtesy of NNPHI:
The National Network of Public Health Institutes (NNPHI) has selected three states for competitive grants to address public health opportunities and challenges through exploring the development of a public health institute. As a result of the award, Coalition for a Tobacco-Free Hawaii (Healthy Communities Hawaii), The University of Kentucky College of Public Health, and the Vermont Public Health Association will embark on strategic planning processes to explore and develop public health institutes in their states, with technical support from NNPHI.
Each of the three states will be working closely with state and local health departments to explore the development of a public health institute. "We are excited to provide ongoing support to Hawaii, Kentucky, and Vermont in their efforts to develop a public health institute," says Erin Marziale, Associate Director for Member Services and lead for the project. "NNPHI will be supporting these organizations throughout each step of the process, and they are joining a strong network of innovative organizations dedicated to improving health through partnership and collaboration."
Each organization will receive $10,000 to complete activities related to forming a public health institute, which may include conducting an strategic planning process, applying for 501(c)3 status, forming a board or advisory group, and/or identifying an entrepreneurial leader. In addition, NNPHI will provide each awardee with an established mentor who will work closely with the key leaders to support their development activities. NNPHI also offers educational webinars, access to online resources, and in-person educational opportunities for all organizations pursuing the development of a public health institute. NNPHI will also be working with a consultant to update A Guide for Developing Public Health Institutes, which will include new chapters on sustainability for public health institutes. Leaders or organizations interested in learning more about public health institutes and resources for development should visit NNPHI's website for more information at www.nnphi.org.