MAT-SU HEALTH FOUNDATION THEORY OF CHANGE

If we follow this way of working in the world, it will result in a healthier Mat-Su community.

1. Mat-Su is our home. We are part of the community and we are community-driven.

a. Working where the community is ready to engage and prioritize

b. Building on community assets and strengths

c. Strengthening the social fabric by building trusting, long-term relationships with and among community partners

2. We empower and build the capacity of community residents and organizations to help determine and create a healthier community.

a. Creating safe environments and supports for convening community partners in order to advance conversations and collaborations regarding health

b. Embracing difference and celebrating the richness of these differences with our grantees and community partners by recognizing that the people and elements that makeup our local community are varied and diverse

c. Investing in and nurturing leadership across sectors and populations to increase their capacity as change agents for health

d. Celebrating what’s working and promoting communities of practice where best practice and innovation can accelerate in order to advance the pace of learning and application

e. Increasing advocacy, community organizing and civic engagement to promote health equity and produce positive health outcomes for all Mat-Su residents

f. Increasing the capacity of community partners to advocate for policy level changes to improve systems, social structures and environments for positive health choices

3. We are data-driven and strategic in deployment of our resources toward evidence-based solutions.

a. Using a science-based framework in examining the causes, distribution and management of health at the population level, including social determinants

b. Evaluating our work for impact and correcting our course where necessary

c. Funding education of community members and stakeholders, including MSHF staff and board directors, on key health issues