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Central Savannah River Authority Partnership For Community Health |
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| Phone: | (706) 828-2396 |
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| Fax: | (706) 828-2496 |
| E-mail: | gdurnell@uh.org |
| Title: | Richmond County Diabetes and Obesity Project |
| Project Director: | Gwendolyn J. Durnell |
| Target Population: | Black/African American |
| Health Issues: | Diabetes, Obesity and Overweight |
| Age Group: | Children, Adolescents, Adults, Elderly |
| The purpose of the Richmond County Diabetes and Obesity Project is to address the severe needs of the African American communities in Richmond County, Georgia. The services proved in the project specifically target diabetes and obesity/overweight. The project is implemented through a coalition composed of the Beulah Grove Center for Community Health, the 30901 Development Center, the Neighborhood Improvement Project, and the Neighborhood Health Services Center.
The project conducts health fairs at recreation centers, schools, health centers, and churches throughout the Richmond County area. The health fairs include diabetes exhibits, education and exercise classes, and video games that require physical activity. Screenings are conducted for glucose levels as well as to determine risk for diabetes. Community residents with positive screening results are referred to appropriate health care and education services. Project Nurse Navigators follow-up with individuals with abnormal glucose levels and encourage them to obtain appointments with health care providers. The Nurse Navigators also provide education on medication, diet, and use of equipment. Pre and post tests are given to determine the amount of knowledge gained from the sessions. The educational sessions are held at various locations throughout the community. Screenings for obesity are also conducted to identify and refer individuals to appropriate health and education services. Health educators provide obesity and overweight prevention education to all age groups at schools, recreation centers, senior centers, apartment complex community centers, and churches. Physical fitness programs are implemented for obese and overweight adults and youth. A Wellness Challenge, regarding weight loss, involves competition between churches, civic groups, community organizations, and senior and youth groups. Also, a Midnight Basketball Program is planned for teenage boys to play weekly from 9-12 p.m.
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