I started thinking about the groups that came together for this event and the reasons why community members participate. It was clear to me that some groups would participate because of personal experiences or interest in the subject matter whereas others might partipate just because they like running "for a good cause." While there was a pretty good turnout for the event, it didn't appear that it was well advertised outside the Hillcrest area (I could be wrong about this!) and I can't remember if there is even a slogan or catchy phrase that goes along with the walk... While I'm sure that community leaders and gatekeepers were involved in the event planning, it wasn't clear to me that they used focus groups (to enhance participant turnout or make the event more educational or inticing to participants. Don't get me wrong, I participate in the AIDS walk every year and think it is a great event but it feels like it hasn't changed much in the last few years and formative research may be the thing that gives this event a boost!!!
As far as community involvement goes, I am dedicated to participating in these events because it is a fun, healthy, and easy way to participate in a good cause... I think it would also be cool if we, as MPH students participated as a group in more community outreach events (in between class, studying, work, internships, and novelties such as eating and drinking...) It would be fun and a benefit to the community and our learning if we could do things such as have a booth at this event to possibly give out health education materials etc... maybe it is something we can think about for next year (those of us who will still be here!)
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