Use of formative research and social network theory to develop a group walking intervention: Sumter County on the Move!

Although social support is a frequently cited enabler of physical activity, few studies have examined how to harness social support in interventions. This paper describes community-based formative research to design a walking program for mobilizing naturally occurring social networks to support increases in walking behavior. Focus group methods were used to engage community members in discussions about desired walking program features.

Building capacity in disadvantaged communities: development of the community advocacy and leadership program.

Background: Successful community groups have the capacity to mobilize community assets to address needs. Capacity-building education is integral to building competent communities.

Objectives: A community-university team developed and pilot tested an education program for community advocates from disadvantaged neighborhoods with high chronic disease burden.