H5.01 - Learning Lab: Transforming Health Equity: Bridging Health Gaps Through A Community-Centered Approach to Wellness

Brief Abstract Summary: Discover the transformative impact of the Healthy Community Center’s community-driven initiatives in wellness, nutrition, and engagement. This presentation will explore how HCC’s strategic programming and co-designed, inclusive spaces empower residents to lead healthier lives. Learn the importance of partnering with the community to create culturally relevant health solutions and how outreach fosters meaningful involvement. Gain insights into successful organizational strategies that drive sustainable growth, capacity building, and impactful program delivery. Attendees will learn proven methods to advocate for equitable services, build lasting community relationships, and see firsthand how targeted initiatives can drive positive change, enhancing both individual and community health.

Detailed abstract description: The Healthy Community Center (HCC) on Columbus’ Near East Side stands as a unique and transformative model for health equity, deeply rooted in community partnership and co-design. Established by The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, HCC was created to address longstanding health disparities in an underserved area with a rich cultural history. Located at the former site of the Columbus Metropolitan Library Martin Luther King Jr. branch, HCC integrates the past with a forward-thinking approach to wellness, making it a cornerstone for community health.

What makes HCC special is its commitment to working hand in hand with residents to develop culturally relevant health solutions that tackle real-life challenges. From the beginning, HCC was built with the community, not just for it. This presentation will explore how our community-driven model actively involves residents in shaping every aspect of the center—from the teaching kitchen and urban garden to the café that offers healthy, accessible food options. These spaces are not just amenities but critical tools for fostering education, engagement, and support tailored to the community’s unique needs.

Attendees will learn about HCC’s history, vision, and innovative approach to advancing health equity. We will dive into the strategies that set HCC apart, including our commitment to inclusivity, strategic partnerships, and the integration of social determinants of health into our programming. By centering the voices of those we serve, HCC creates programs that are culturally relevant, sustainable, and deeply impactful. We will highlight real examples of how residents have co-designed programs that address food insecurity, chronic disease prevention, and mental wellness, showcasing the direct positive outcomes of this collaboration.

This session will provide attendees with practical insights into building strong, trusting relationships with communities, advocating for responsive health initiatives, and developing programs that resonate with diverse populations. Whether you are a nonprofit leader, community organizer, or passionate advocate for social justice, you will leave with tools and strategies to create inclusive spaces that empower individuals and drive meaningful change.

Join us to learn how the HCC’s collaborative model can inspire and guide your efforts to reimagine health education and wellness. Discover how co-designing with the community not only enhances program effectiveness but also builds a foundation for lasting impact. See firsthand what makes HCC a beacon of hope and an exemplary model of how to transform health equity through community partnership, leading to significant health improvements and community benefits.