The Envelope, Please… (We've Got Some Good News to Share)
We can all use some good news every once in a while, and lately -- well, let’s just say that unless you’re a fan of government shutdowns and crisis politics, the need has been particularly acute. So imagine our delight at learning over the last few weeks that Prevention Institute and its staff members have received not one, not two, but three honors and accolades. With news this good, we just had to share it. Here’s a rundown:
Our Own Sandra Viera Wins 2013 Sarah E. Samuels Award for New Health Professionals
For interest, dedication, and leadership in obesity-prevention efforts, with an emphasis on changing the physical, social, and economic conditions that contribute to health disparities…
Prevention Institute’s Sandra Viera was awarded the California Center for Public Health Advocacy’s 2013 Sarah E. Samuels Award for New Health Professionals in recognition of her leadership in obesity prevention efforts. This award honors the memory of Sarah Samuels, who dedicated her life and career to improving the public’s health and was passionate about mentoring young public health professionals.
Sandra joined Prevention Institute in 2010 as a program coordinator and has had an incredible impact on our work throughout the state. She is a leader in our effort to build safe, healthy communities by developing policies that improve the built environment, prevent unintentional injuries and increase equitable opportunities for physical activity and play. As coordinator of the Joint Use Statewide Taskforce, Sandra convenes partners and helps identify local and statewide opportunities to develop joint-use agreements between schools, community-based organizations and park and recreation departments. Her gentle but purposeful facilitation style helps foster dialogue and generate consensus. Sandra also authored the “Safe Places to Play and Be Active” policy platform, which builds awareness of the range of land-use strategies required to improve inactivity-related health conditions.
Sandra, we couldn’t be more proud of you and we’re thrilled that others are recognizing the great work you do.
Public Service Award in Injury Control and Emergency Health Services
For outstanding contributions and achievements with a significant and long-term impact on the field of injury control and emergency health services…
The Injury Control and Emergency Health Services Section of the American Public Health Association gives out an annual award to an institution and this year they chose Prevention Institute. We’re delighted to be in the company of past winners such as the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety and National Safe Kids.
Working to prevent violence and injuries before they occur is a central part of PI’s work. Here are some of the initiatives and tools we’ve developed:
To celebrate the Injury Section award, we'll be handing out our bumpersticker (above) at the upcoming American Public Health Association Annual Meeting in Boston. If any organizations are interested in purchasing bumperstickers in bulk, please drop us a line and we would be happy to coordinate with you.
Philanthropedia’s Top Nonprofits in Childhood Nutrition and Health
For working to impact the lives of children by improving nutrition and health…
Finally, Prevention Institute has been ranked by Philanthropedia, and its panel of national experts, as one of the top nonprofits working to improve childhood nutrition and health. The organizations chosen focus on policies that bring healthy foods and physical activity to schools and communities, increase access to safe places to play, and organize media campaigns to promote health and nutrition for kids. We’re thrilled be in the company of colleagues and partners including PolicyLink, ChangeLab Solutions, Center for Science in the Public Interest and The Food Trust. Click here to learn more about our work improving kids’ health, and see Philanthropedia’s full list here.
