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Workshop on health and community design coming to Courtenay

Day-long event at Florence Filberg Centre
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Aerial view of Courtenay and surrounding area. Black Press file photo

Submitted by Comox Valley Community Health Network

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When it comes to your health, did you know your postal code is as important as your genetic code? Whether you are in Cumberland, Courtenay, Comox or one of the electoral areas, the built environment, the structures, features and facilities that surround us, are affecting our health and wellbeing.

More and more people are beginning to see and understand the links between how we build and design our public spaces and our health, the health of our community and the health of our planet.

In partnership with the Planning Institute of British Columbia – North Island Chapter, Island Health and Comox Valley Nurses for the Environment, the Comox Valley Community Health Network is bringing people together for a full day of learning and education around promoting health and wellness in the Comox Valley.

“Island Health is pleased to take part in this workshop on health and community design,” said Jade Yehia, Island Health Healthy Built Environment co-ordinator. “When communities make decisions about transportation, zoning and community planning, they are able to enhance well being. Community design can have a myriad of health benefits, such as, providing alternative mode of transport, making it easier to buy healthy foods, or boosting access to parks. These factors can promote physical activity, good nutrition, and social well-being. The outcome can be better mental and physical health.”

On Thursday, Oct. 3 at the Florence Filberg Centre (Upper Ballroom) 411 Anderton Ave. in Courtenay the groups will be hosting two events;

• A day workshop geared towards professionals working in the field, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m., $75 registration includes lunch and refreshments. Workshop agenda and registration available at https://bit.ly/2lIIAgi

If cost is a barrier to participation, please contact islandnorth@pibc.bc.ca

• A public event featuring short films, presentations and a panel discussion with an opportunity for Q&A, 6:30-8:30 p.m. More information at https://bit.ly/2l5tyAP

“The timing for these events is really great for equipping professionals and the public with ideas for a number of community growth plans being developed right now, including the City of Courtenay’s Official Community Plan,” says Nancy Gothard, member of the Planning Institute of BC Vancouver Island North Chapter. “It’s really exciting to see public health officials across Canada getting behind principles of compact, connected and complete community design with plenty of access to the outdoors. These attributes can make a community really enjoyable to be in and full of unique character.”

For more information, please contact Lindsay McGinn at info@cvhcn.ca