National Health Outreach and Engagement Conference 2024

Dychtwald, D.
Faith-based organizations can play an important role in the physical and mental health of their
congregants and the communities they serve through the lens of faith and spirituality. Faith-
based health promotion (FBHP) is a concept utilized across multiple disciplines, including
nursing, public health, government, social work, and medicine. Studies show that FBOs are
uniquely positioned to reach across multiple demographics, led by clergy members who have a
strong influence over their institutions, shaping the physical and social environments of their
institutions for health-related matters.

With the absence of a countywide health/food security coalition, we identified an opportunity to
bring together a group of faith leaders to provide resources, trainings, peer-to-peer support,
mentoring, funding support, etc., to assist them in promoting healthier lifestyles for individuals,
families, and the communities they serve. Launched in 2022, the Gloucester County Faith in
Prevention Network (FIPN) believes communities of faith can be key health advocates,
particularly in communities affected by health disparities or lacking adequate access to
resources. The FIPN connects faith communities with organizations that are invested in food
security and reducing health disparities; assists in developing passion for promoting wellness;
and serves as a resource to create and sustain health and wellness-related ministry programs. Its
vision is to empower faith communities to serve as changemakers who work collaboratively
within congregations and communities to help families and individuals thrive physically,
mentally, and spiritually. Led by Extension faculty and staff, monthly meetings.