Implement
Healthy People 2020 Tools:
Questions to Ask and Answer:
- Are we following our plan?
- What can we do better?
First, create a detailed workplan that lays out concrete action steps, identifies who is responsible for completing them, and sets a timeline and/or deadlines.
Make sure all partners are on board with the workplan.
Next, consider identifying a single point of contact to manage the process and ensure that things get done.
Be sure to share responsibilities across coalition members. Do not forget to periodically:
- Bring in new partners for a boost of energy and fresh ideas.
- Check in with existing partners often to see if they have suggestions or concerns.
Get the word out: develop a communication plan.
Convene kick-off events, activities, and community meetings to showcase your accomplishments (and partners).
![]() |
Field Notes: North CarolinaNorth Carolina has established the Office of Healthy Carolinians, which is responsible for keeping their Healthy People initiative on track. Staff are available to North Carolina counties for support and training, particularly coalition building. There is also a governor’s task force that certifies counties in the Healthy Carolinians project. The counties do an assessment and then implement an action plan. |
Other Resources:
- Pink Book—Making Health Communication Programs Work (National Cancer Institute, 2002)
- The Community Toolbox
- Chapter 6: Communications to Promote Interest
- Chapter 10: Hiring and Training Key Staff of Community Organizations
- Chapter 11: Recruiting and Training Volunteers
- Chapter 12: Providing Training and Technical Assistance
- Chapter 24: Improving Services
- Chapter 25: Changing Policies
- Chapter 26: Changing the Physical and Social Environment
- Chapter 43: Managing Finances
- Chapter 45: Social Marketing of Successful Components of the Initiative
Toolkits
- Influencing Policy Development
- Developing an Intervention
- Implementing a Social Marketing Effort
- Sustaining the Work or Initiative