Transcending Boundaries Conference
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Transcending Boundaries: Improving the Health of Our Community, a regional, faith-based conference was held on Tuesday, April 28, 2009 at the Holiday Inn Convention Center in Liverpool, New York. The purpose of the conference was to increase the programmatic capacity of faith and other leaders through a community dialogue that explores the role that partnerships and collaborations can play in addressing the health needs of minority populations. Keynote speakers included Reverend Dr. W. Franklyn Richardson (Senior Pastor, Grace Baptist Church, Mt. Vernon, NY) and Reverend Edwin C. Sanders (Senior Servant, Metropolitan Interdenominational Church, Nashville, TN). The conference was a product of a partnership between local church leaders and representatives from faith coalitions and health and human service organizations in the Syracuse Area.
Over 110 community members participated, including 43 individuals representing faith-based organizations and 69 individuals representing community-based organizations, programs or businesses in health, education, government and media. Scholarships were offered to 25% of conference participants. Participants left with increased knowledge of:
- The impact of infectious and chronic disease on the health of our community
- Programs and methods that work in developing programs for youth
- Organizational requirements for effective health ministries and health promotion programs
- The value of collaboration in successful community development and health promotion
Conference evaluations were positive. Participants expressed feeling energized, requested that we host the conference again next year, and challenged us to begin exploring ways to implement the ideas shared at this year’s conference. Our tentative plans include: (1) investigating potential partnerships between faith and community conference participants together with appropriate funding opportunities; (2) expanding the conference website to include workshop, keynote speaker and panel resources; (3) developing a communications network for participants and others; (4) planning next year’s event.
For 2009 conference information, including pictures and workshop materials, please visit >>>Resources / Materials
If you are interested in joining the Transcending Boundaries Planning Committee, please contact Terry Richmond at gmrichmond@cnyhsa or (315) 472-8099.
This program was funded in part by a grant from the Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Minority Health
to provide technical assistance to minority serving organizations.