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Ask an Advisor Answers

Question: what does it mean the quote "Those who fail to plan, plan to fail"
Answer:

Dear Mesi,
The quote means that when you move forward with a project or program or other initiative, if you don't make a clear plan, the effort will probably not be successful.
The Community Tool Box Advisor

Question Date: Tue, 12/16/2014
Question:
1. List the Basic Steps in planning and identify the type of action plan to be taken for employee turnover problems
Answer:

Dear Mesi,
The Community Tool Box does not address specific problems in organizations, such as turnover and does not have action steps to take.  Usually when there are problems such as turnover, it is necessary to find out why and then develop a customized solution based upon the reasons. You might browse through the various chapters regarding leadership, evaluation, and maintaining quality performance to find if there are tips on how to examine the reason for the turnover, then how to create an action plan to address the specific problem.
The Community Tool Box Advisor

Question Date: Tue, 12/16/2014
Question:
Title: The GAP Analysis of Customer Satisfaction vs Service Quality in education industry.
How the research questions can be formed to reflect the current environment and modern ways of learning and exceeding customer expectations.
Answer:

Dear Shakir,
Formulating research questions is usually guided by (1) your information needs; and (2) the research literature. When you are doing research, it is generally with the purpose of learning something specific, especially when you are doing applied research such as in the education industry. You can also look to research done by other groups with similar needs to see what questions they asked and how they did their research. Researchers often find that someone else with the same need has already formed the questions, and it is simply a matter of revising them to suit your specific location and purpose. Reports related to your topic can often be found by doing a simple Google or other search in the Internet. Then, review your research questions to find out if they are the right questions to answer for your specific needs.
The Community Tool Box Advisor

Question Date: Tue, 12/16/2014
Question: why always do projects fail?
Answer:

Dear Zaki,
Projects do not always fail. Those that do generally fail because of insufficient or poor planning. That's why it is really important to follow guidelines such as those offered by The Community Tool Box for planning projects and programs. This includes thinking through all of the details about the project and making sure you have the right and enough resources (including expertise) before you begin. 
The Community Tool Box Advisor

Question Date: Wed, 12/17/2014
Question:
How can I get a max credit hour waiver? There is a class that I am wanting to add to my schedule but it would exceed my term maximum.
Thanks!
Answer:

Hi Rebekah,
Your question is outside of the scope of the Community Tool Box. I suggest you contact your registrar's office at your university.
The Community Tool Box Advisor

Question Date: Sat, 12/20/2014
Question:
CONDITION FOR SUCCESSFUL COMPARISON OF COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ACTIVITIES IN TWO COUNTRIES
Answer:

Hello,
There are a number of conditions required to compare community development activities across two countries; too many to simply describe. Such comparison would require the same procedures as evaluation of community programs and initiatives. I recommend you read The Community Tool Box Chapters 36, 37, 38, and 39 and Toolkit #12. If those are not helpful, conducting such an analysis might require contracting the services of a researcher or evaluator.
The Community Tool Box Advisor

Question Date: Thu, 12/25/2014
Question:
I am looking to start a non profit within the next three years, but at the moment, I am currently working on a viral campaign to build our brand until we have the tools to start our work. Do you think this move is advisable or should the focus be exclusively on getting things ready for the start in the coming years?
Answer:

Dear Mr. Anderson,
It would seem as though building the brand would require having a foundation upon which to build it. Because of this, I would think that focusing on starting your non-profit and having your tools in place, implementing the services, and evaluating them to determine whether they are effective. The brand should be built on credible evidence that what you are doing works.
The Community Tool Box has many tools that can help you to get started. Chapters 8 through 12 and Toolkits #5 and #15 will help with developing the strategic plan and organizational structure. Chapters 13-16 and Toolkit #6 will facilitate leadership development. For help with implementation review Chapters 20-26 and Toolkits #7 and #11. And finally, Chapters 36-39 and Toolkit #12 will provide you with guidance for evaluation. After you have successfully implemented your services and evaluated them to provide evidence of effectiveness, then you will have something concrete upon which to build your brand.
The Community Tool Box Advisor

Question Date: Sat, 12/27/2014
Question: Can you please help me on how to write citation from your document.
Answer:

Dear Mr. Mutarubukwa,
The Community Tool Box Use policy provides information on how to cite and credit material from The Community Tool Box. It includes the suggestion that you use the American Psychological Association format.  Here is an example citation from the policy page:
~~Example Citation:
KU Work Group for Community Health and Development. (2014). Chapter 3, Section 10: Conducting Concerns Surveys. Lawrence, KS: University of Kansas. Retrieved January 2, 2014, from the Community Tool Box: http://ctb.ku.edu/en/table-of-contents/assessment/assessing-community-ne...
I hope this is helpful. If you need more information, please see The Community Tool Box policy page at http://ctb.ku.edu/en/use-policy
The Community Tool Box Advisor

Question Date: Sun, 12/28/2014
Question:
Word of mouth is the best way to get out information in our community. What is the best way to build word of mouth networks? I am looking for concrete steps to take. It would be great if you could recommend some resources on how to do this as well.

I work with a community coalition that has a variety of initiatves. I would like to spread the word on what we are doing and also get information into the community about available initiatives and resources.

Thank you.
Answer:

Dear Ms. Mortiboy,
The Community Tool Box has several chapters that will be helpful in developing such a strategy. Chapter 6 provides guidelines for promoting interest in community issues. Section 1 of this chapter provides guidelines for developing a communication plan. Chapter 7 includes several sections for promoting participation, contacting potential participants, and making personal contact with potential participants, as well as involving people most affected by a problem.
You might find Chapter 23, Section 6 to be most helpful. It provides guidelines for conducting outreach, including descriptions of common methods and how to implement it.
The Community Tool Box Advisor

Question Date: Tue, 12/30/2014
Question:
Internet access price ,I will like to organize a petition or better boycotting the higher cost ,that we cannot afford it anymore ,
We the USA tax payer's support the advance technology ,why we do not have access to it to a reasonable price??
Who controls the price ?? ,,,




Answer:

Dear Maria,
Questions regarding control over the Internet and pricing are outside of the scope of The Community Tool Box. However, if you are interested in organizing a community and initiating an advocacy campaign, I recommend that you read the Community Tool Box chapters 30 through 35 which provide guidelines for organizing for effective advocacy. Toolkit #10 may also be useful.
The Community Tool Box Advisor 

Question Date: Tue, 12/30/2014
Question: This is a test question.
Answer:

Dear Dr. Berkowitz,
The answer to your test question will depend upon whether you receive this response. If you do, then your test was likely successful. If not, you will never know that the test was not successful.
Happy New Year!
The Community Tool Box Advisor

Question Date: Wed, 12/31/2014
Question:
I have begun researching community collaboration. Yet I believe communities participate informally in community collaboration whether it is shared planning in community events e.g., health fairs, wellness conferences to name a few, or informal meetings or formalized meetings, yet these community collaboration processes or categories/types of community collaborations are not identified. Can you point me to awesome resources?
Answer:

I would recommend going through the AEA (American Evaluation Association) Blog and Better Evaluation.  Hope this helps.  Best wishes with your work!

Question Date: Thu, 01/08/2015
Question:
Hi!
I am traveling to Tanzania with my college to go into the schools (primary and secondary) to teach about water education. I am stuck on what kind of lesson plans I should implement while I am there. I was thinking about a handwashing activity or personal hygiene of some kind. My purpose of my project is to begin the elimination of the cultural bias towards boiling water as a means of sanitation. This project will develop effective and age-appropriate lesson plans that will be taught in the classroom. There will also be a presentation given during the women's conference that will include strategies for improving children's learning at home.

I am open to any suggestions! Thanks :)
Answer:

I would recommend visiting the  First 5 California website for resources on how to improve children's learning at home.  I hope this helps.  Best wishes on your work!

Question Date: Thu, 01/08/2015
Question:
How can a community support the Police? My community has a negative view of the Police that protect and serve it. There is ugly history behind this view,however these folks put their lives on the line everyday to protect the community. I want to create a rally thing for them.
Answer:

Hi Susanne - I would suggest looking into community-based organizations and local government programs to create better relations between police officers and the community.  That may be a good place to start. I hope that helps.

Question Date: Fri, 01/09/2015
Question:
Before going further permit me to introduce ourselves:
The Sanniquellie Youth Association is the conglomeration of various Youth groups within Nimba County. It is an umbrella organization that in-house all small youth group and grooming them to have one voice so as to take up the challenges of our social development. This Association stands for Peace, Advocacy, Construction of Youth Center, Constructive Dialogue and Development in our district and County and Country at large.
we have our youth group call the Sanniquellie Youth Association in Liberia, how can we partner with you to help train our many youth groups? How can be of support to you?
Answer:

Hi William - I would suggest taking a use approach to evaluation that aims to translate passion into impact, while also creating alignment across various groups within one particular vision. 
Utilization-focused evaluation falls within the use approach to evaluation.  FSG, a social impact organization, has some helpful material.  Hope this helps.

Question Date: Mon, 01/12/2015
Question:
Dear Management of Tool box,
I'm in love for what you are doing, how can my community be part of this program

Thank you
Hands of Hope Africa
Uganda
Answer:

Hi Esther - Thank you.  I would suggest contacting William (Bill) Berkowitz at William_Berkowitz@uml.edu.

Question Date: Mon, 01/12/2015
Question:
how to develop a mission and vision statement in strategic plan for organization?
how to develop objective for organization?
Answer:

Hi Mirza - I have included how a mission and vision are different, particularly around issue to take into consideration.
Vision

  • What are the values or beliefs that inform your work?
  • What would you ultimately hope to accomplish as a result of your efforts?

Mission

  • How do you plan to work toward this broad vision?
  • For whose specific benefit does the organization exist?

The source is the Foundation Center.  Hope this helps.

Question Date: Mon, 01/19/2015
Question:
My name is Dr Gloria Gay and I have a community radio broadcast that airs every Thursday morning from 9:30 am to 10:30 (est). I invite clinicians, professionals, and grass roots persons to the broadcast to help me, my co-host, and the in-house Psychiatrist discuss topics that impact our communities and are not usually addressed in social circles. We discuss the topic for thirty minutes and then open the phone lines for callers who may have a question or comment while in the meantime we continue discussing the topic. February 5, 2015 we will be discussing Prejudice and I would like to invite you to be a guest on the show. If you accept the invitation I will send you the questions that we will use and answer ant pertinent questions. Please let me know asap so we can move forward. Thank you for your time.

Answer:

Please contact William Berkowitz at William_Berkowitz@uml.edu.

Question Date: Tue, 01/20/2015
Question:
Hi I would like to know if I can seek permission to use the toolkit for conducting training and development on community development workers such as social workers in my country. Can I automatically print it out and conduct my trainings then acknowledge your organisation/institution?
Answer:

Yes, all resources on the website are for use.  Please contact William Berkowitz at William_Berkowitz@uml.edu for further information.

Question Date: Wed, 01/21/2015
Question: how can I receive the online Free class.
Answer:

Please contact William Berkowitz at William_Berkowitz@uml.edu for more information.  Make sure to provide the name of the class.  Thanks.

Question Date: Sat, 01/24/2015
Question:
I am interested in starting a program to end the Freshman 15. Do you have any intervention ideas? Is there an outline or program that we could use as a guide? Thank you for your time.
Answer:

Hi Janet - I would recommend look at Public Health programs on obseity.  They may gave you some ideas although there will be some contextual differences.

Question Date: Wed, 01/28/2015
Question:
Dear Advisor Team,
I'm writing from a small rural town in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. Five years ago a small group of local ladies got together with the vision to showcase our town (increase tourism) and to increase social cohesiveness (racially segregated and diverse). We started the Encounter East Griqualand Country and Garden Festival which is in our 5th year this year (see website: www.encountereg.co.za). It has proved a wonderful success - starting with around 400 visitors over the 3-day event and ballooning to over 1000 visitors last year. The Festival has more than 60 "events" which include gardens, music, agricultural events, a parade, a street market, children's activities, food at every venue, wild flower and birding walks and talks, guest speakers, book launches etc. Next week we will be meeting to start talking about Encounter 2015. As the "facilitator" to our planning sessions, this year I have the challenge of a group that are tired. I like your section on institutionalising the initiative - I think the Festival should start looking more like a business than a committee - and I will use the 8 questions to structure the discussion. But, what other tools, tips, or strategies can I use to invigorate the group? I'll obviously start with brain-storming and discussing our successes - but, I feel, in our hearts, we know that. What else can fire up the group again? We will also have some POTENTIAL new committee members at the meeting (I've asked that they also be invited), so that they are clear about the current committees "malaise", but are made to feel part of the reason for its continuation....Any ideas? I would be most grateful. (P.S. The entire committee volunteers their time - we had a part-time marketing person, who is leaving us this year), Kind regards
Answer:

Hi Dr. Roets - I would suggest developing a Theory of Change and develop Program Logic Models.  You can begin by developing an outcomes-based theory of change so everyone discusses and knows what success looks like for various stakeholders.  The Annie E. Casey Foundation has some good tools.  I would suggest exploring their website.

Question Date: Thu, 01/29/2015
Question:
I want to start new organisation or youth society... in village so please advise me or suggest me..Please
Answer:

Hi Manpreet - I would recommend looking at the development of youth programs in villages across different countries.  If you do a general search, I believe you will find some.  See which ones best align with that you want to develop and try to implement their practices when designing your program.

Question Date: Thu, 01/29/2015
Question:
I am interested in using the Core Functions In Leadership for a training I am working on for community health workers. Who do I contact to learn about the permissions and the appropriate credits for using the materials if approved.
Thank you very much for your input
Answer:

Hi Dawn - I would recommend that you reach out to William Berkowitz at William_Berkowitz@uml.edu.

Question Date: Fri, 01/30/2015
Question:
What is the best way to cite your website in APA style? I am using information from Chapter 27 about oppression in a research paper. Thanks!
Answer:

There are many online citation guides for APA style:
http://www.apastyle.org/
http://www.bibme.org/citation-guide/apa/book
http://www.citationmachine.net/apa/cite-a-website
Best of luck in your work.

Question Date: Sat, 02/07/2015
Question:
How should I write this site in my references (your recommended citation for this site) at the end of my literature reviewing of the information on your website? I want to recognise the source appropriately.
Answer:

Dear Dr. Kirabira,
Thank you for your question. We are pleased that you have found the Community Tool Box helpful! The Community Tool Box is a Creative Commons publication, so we encourage users to share the materials. We have a suggested written citation (example) if you are printing material that will use or reference Tool Box materials:
KU Work Group for Community Health and Development. (2015). Chapter 3, Section 1: Developing a Plan for Assessing Local Needs and Resources. Lawrence, KS: University of Kansas. Retrieved January 9, 2015, from the Community Tool Box: http://ctb.ku.edu/en/table-of-contents/assessment/assessing-community-needs-and-resources/develop-a-plan/main
If you are not printing materials, we just ask that within your presentation, after referencing the Tool Box materials, you mention that it is from the Community Tool Box and give the web address of the home page:  www.ctb.ku.edu.
We wish you the best and hope that you will continue to find the Community Tool Box helpful in your work!

Question Date: Thu, 02/19/2015
Question:
I have an assignment to create a health promoting intervention for my community . I have chosen swimming pool health, healthy waters, My assignment includes creating a budget for funding, a SWOT analysis of the proposed program and assigning project roles . I am thinking of doing posters about reasons for showering before swimming, to hang at the rec centers and do a display at the library. Also creating a proposal to the community recreation centers to install UV light in their pools which would reduce the need for chlorine in the pools. Any thoughts about how to finance a budget, and also to assign project roles? Any thoughts at all?
Answer:

It's hard to know where to start with creating a budget, but it's a great way to get an understanding of what things are doable and what things may be too expensive. Developing a good budget can help guide all kinds of decision like figuring out what the tasks are that need to be accomplished, how many people are needed, and what it will cost to do it. If the "ideal" budget is higher than the amount of money you actually have or think you will be able to get, then working with a budget can help you to make decisions about how to streamline your plans so that the project is more affordable. There is a nice resource in the Community Toolbox -- Chapter 43, Section 1 (Planning and Writing an Annual Budget). Good luck.

Question Date: Tue, 03/03/2015
Question:
The community toolbox is wonderful. I am looking for tools for estimating the cost of community mobilization. Are you aware of any such tools? I don’t see any in the toolbox.

Thanks much,
Brian
Answer:

You might find chapters 42 and 43 on Generating, Managing, and Sustaining Financial Resources:

Also, Toolkit #14 on Writing a Grant Application for Funding
 
I think a lot of the information in those resources would be applicable to community mobilization.
 
Good luck.

Question Date: Wed, 03/04/2015
Question:
Hi there!

I've completed a community assessment of a neighbourhood in Toronto. Some important primary data I have observed is the numerous community and recreational services, as well as a large park that is the centre of the community. I am trying to implement a social marketing ad but I am not sure what I can do without making any assumptions about the community population (i.e. I wanted to hold a health fair that brings all the services to one place so the community can access it and see all the available resources to them, but is that assuming they don't already use these resources?). Please let me know if you have any suggestions.

Thanks!
Answer:

The best way to avoid making assumptions about the community population is to go to them for input. What you are describing seems like an excellent opportunity to interact with people from the community, share information with them, and learn about what they would like to do or would like to see happen. One way to do this would be by engaging with one or more community organizations (e.g., neighborhood organizations) and talking with them about next steps. It might help to do some focus groups with potential participants/recipients to learn what sorts of things they would like to see happen, whether they would attend, if they would want to help make it happen (or take charge of making it happen). Another idea would be to knock on doors and poll neighbors about their interest in the type of event you have in mind. The more you can involve members of the community, the more likely it is that your initiative will reach them. Hope this helps. Best of luck.

Question Date: Wed, 03/04/2015
Question:
I am social worker who is the founder of Chitani Community Sustainable Development Organization in 2004. I want to learn more how I can write winning proposals. Therefore I am seeking adviser who can help me. The NGO is currently based in Malawi. Our focus areas are: Education, Water, sanitation and hygiene and climate change,
Answer:

You may find Communtiy Toolbox Chapters #42-44 of the toolbox, and Toolkit #14 to be helpful.
Another thought is that you may be able to find a suitable on-line course that you can take for free. I don't know if you are familiar with the idea of MOOCs (Massive Open Online Courses) that are being developed by major universities and other organizations. I just did a quick internet search for "grant writing MOOC" and came across a bunch of things.
Good luck.

Question Date: Mon, 03/09/2015
Question:
I am an exchange student from the United States studying Public Health at Elon University, and am studying at the University of Cape Town in South Africa for the semester. I am apart of a study abroad organization called CIEE and am apart of their service-learning program, where a group of us take classes at UCT while simultaneously working in service sites throughout Cape Town. During our time spent at our service sites, we are required to complete some sort of project, which can include implementing some sort of program or service to our location.

I have been placed at Ned Doman High School in Athlone, Cape Town and have spent the past couple weeks observing the school in order to determine some type of positive impact I can have on the students. During this time, I have decided that the school's counseling services are lacking and it would be very beneficial to begin a peer counseling/education program within the school. I noticed that your organization has partnerships with training programs and was wondering if you have or know about any resources available that could be used in conducting a peer education training session with the students at Ned Doman. Online resources or materials that I could use to facilitate a session with the students would be best if any exist and I am looking for some advice in the matter.

I look forward to hearing back and thanks in advance for you time!
Answer:

Hi,
From your question it is not clear how you arrived at the conclusion that a peer education/counseling program is the way to go forward. I might suggest looking at some of the resources in the Community Toolbox on "Assessing Needs and Resources" and "Analyzing Community Problems and Designing and Adapting Community Interventions." You may find Chapters 17-19 and Toolkits 3 and 7 to be helpful in a general way.

Question Date: Thu, 03/12/2015
Question:
Do you all provide assistance to organizations that are going through the Strategic Planning process? I happened across the Developing Vision and Mission Statements section of your Toolbox and am incredibly grateful for all of that information. I'm wondering if you have any coaches that can help our organization in a consult type of situation.
Answer:

Hi,
"Ask an Advisor" is limited to providing fairly limited resources and guidance. Many of the folks developing the community toolbox are community psychologists, and you may find some additional resources on the website for the Society for Community Research and Action -- and possibly identify someone in your area who could provide the kind of consultation you are looking for by going to http://www.scra27.org/what-we-do/practice/connect-practitioner/. There you will find a director of folks that do the kind of consultation you are looking for, maybe even someone in your area.

Question Date: Tue, 03/17/2015
Question:
Hello,
I have always intended on leading change in my community. I love working among my age group. I have come up with an idea to start a community based organisation focusing on entrepreneurship development among the youth in my community. I was just wondering on how I can draw out an effective model of operation to help me achieve my goal of motivating the youth to take over entrepreneurship roles in the community without asking for any funds from them as its a non-profit and self funded organisation.
Answer:

A good place to start would be chapters 8-9 in the Community Toolbox. There is also a toolkit (#5) on strategic planning that could be particularly useful.

Question Date: Sun, 03/29/2015
Question:
Help…my name is Jasmine!!!! I am in a practicum class where we are doing program evaluations for community organizations. The employees of those organizations are very applied focused. We are wondering how to engage them in change and foster buy-in for research methods. The implementation and results will likely necessitate large structural changes that may cause some resistance. It may cause people to hate us! Thanks for your help in this matter.
Answer:

Two pieces of advice. First, approach the evaluation in terms of program improvement, as opposed to judging the value of what the organization is doing. Talk about the evaluation in those terms. Second, remember that the people that make up the organization are the real experts on what they are doing -- if there are problems they probably already know about them. If you approach the evaluation collaboratively, they will be more likely to accept the findings and be willing to work with you to identify and implement solutions. Your job is not to fix the organization/program but to help them collect systematic information and help them to use it effectively.

Question Date: Tue, 03/31/2015
Question:
Dear Sir/Madame,
I would like to you if your organization would consider a grant proposal for the following idea:
A high school girls fitness center with cardio equipment, free weights appropriate for them and other workout videos. I vision a center which can be open each morning before school for one hour and after school each day for hour and half run by Physical Education teachers, nutritionist and various speakers we can provide a safe outlet for our many teen girls to go to each day after school. Tying in academic success is crucial to our success. This center could be used by at least 200 of our female population.

I look forward to hearing feedback from you. Thank you for your help in this matter.

Sincerely,
M. Teri Ramos
Answer:

Dear Teri,
Thank you for reaching out to the Community Tool Box! We’re so pleased you have found our resources helpful in your search for funding and donations, however the Community Tool Box isn’t able to offer grants, gifts, or donations of goods. We can still help provide information that may benefit you in your search.
We suggest you take a look on our Tool Box website at Chapter 42: Getting Grants and Financial Resources:
http://ctb.ku.edu/en/table-of-contents/finances/grants-and-financial-resources
Also a few sections in Chapter 46, may be helpful:
http://ctb.ku.edu/en/table-of-contents/sustain/long-term-institutionalization
Section 9: Obtaining Corporate Resources
Section 11: Soliciting Contributions and In-Kind Support
Section 12: Designing and Implementing a Fundraiser
 
In addition, Toolkit #14 is a useful resource:
http://ctb.ku.edu/en/writing-grant-application
 
We wish you the best of luck in your search!

Question Date: Wed, 04/15/2015
Question:
I am seeking resources such as model letters to use to ask for meeting with potential donors and contributors and to aid in purlication.
I am president of a non profit
Answer:

Good question. I looked through a few sections of the toolbox and didn't come across model letters. You might find Chapter 7, Section 6 on ways to involve influential people to be helpful. Some general things to keep in mind -- be able to clearly state your organization's mission, be able to articulate why it is important to the individual/organization you are reaching out to, be able to say how their involvement/contribution will make a difference. Good luck.

Question Date: Tue, 04/21/2015
Question:
I am the chair of a group of various representatives from organizations in our community that support people who have an intellectual disability. We want to try to make a survey to determine how inclusive our community is with the goal of attempting to improve the inclusiveness of our community. Any suggestions ?
Answer:

I think you will find Chapter #3  and Toolkt #2 of the toolbox useful. Good luck. 

Question Date: Fri, 04/24/2015
Question:
I am interested in taking training by your organization to learn how to assess a community. How can I start?
Answer:

Thank you for your inquiry about the Community Tool Box materials.
There are several options available when it comes to trainings. First, we offer 16 curriculum modules that cover various aspects of community-building and were adapted from material on the CTB website (more information about what each module covers can be found here: http://ctb.ku.edu/en/training-curriculum). The modules are a powerful tool whether you simply desire to learn more about community-building or would like to facilitate a training on one of the aspects of community-building.
Two versions of each of the modules are available for purchase (and both are available in PDF format or hard copy): Participant Guides (which include only the module itself) or Facilitator’s Kits (which include the module, a PowerPoint presentation, and an editable outline called a Facilitator’s Guide—this is more appropriate if you would like to lead a training on the module). 
Should you decide to order any of the materials, all you would need to do is fill out the order form attached and send it to us with payment (money order or check). Unfortunately we are not able to accept credit card payments at this time. We will then send you an invoice for approval (via email). Once you approve it, your order will be readied for processing, and we ask that you process our invoice for payment. You may also call and place your order over the phone if you would rather, but the materials won’t be shipped until payment is received.
We also offer free online courses through TRAIN to support your community health assessment and community health improvement work. These courses are intended for:

  • Staff from state and local health departments (including those seeking accreditation)
  • Hospital staff (considering new federal requirements for non-profit hospitals) and those in community benefit programs
  • Non-profit organizations
  • Community leaders and members

These courses were developed in partnership with the KDHE State Office of Rural Health, and are freely accessible online via www.train.org. (Please register for a free account to get started.)
You may read more about the course modules here:  http://ctb.ku.edu/en/online-courses
Thanks again, and please do not hesitate to contact us with any questions or concerns.

Question Date: Mon, 04/27/2015
Question:
Thanks for the Coalition Building guidance. Looking forward to reading that as Im really struggling to find guidance on alliance building. In short I'm leading the creation of a Global Alliance of university sustainability networks. I pulled many of the together recently for the first time and we want to connect and speak with one voice into international sustainability policy. Challenges are many especially eg how we ensure we are adding value to what already exists and not damaging that, do we open the door to all university groups and projects or stick with a core being country networks. How do we build trust and confidence especially to very different cultures in Africa, China etc so we are all seen as equals and this isnt my 'baby'? How is that for starters?! Very grateful to you and am pleased to have found CTB.
Answer:

Beyond the materials in the Toolbox (chapters 6, 7 and toolboxes 1, 8), you might want to search more broadly for resources from people who have done this sort of work. One suggestion would be to visit Tom Wolff and Associates (http://www.tomwolff.com/) -- Tom and his group are at the forefront of developing community coalitions and collaborations.

Question Date: Tue, 04/28/2015
Question: May I have permission to personalize your content, then post it on my website?
Answer:

Dear Andrew,
Thank you for your e-mail. We are pleased that you have found the Community Tool Box helpful! The Community Tool Box is a Creative Commons publication, so we encourage users to share the materials. We have a suggested written citation (example) if you are printing material that will use or reference Tool Box materials:
KU Work Group for Community Health and Development. (2015). Chapter 3, Section 1: Developing a Plan for Assessing Local Needs and Resources. Lawrence, KS: University of Kansas. Retrieved January 9, 2015, from the Community Tool Box: http://ctb.ku.edu/en/table-of-contents/assessment/assessing-community-needs-and-resources/develop-a-plan/main
If you are not printing materials, we just ask that within your presentation, after referencing the Tool Box materials, you mention that it is from the Community Tool Box and give the web address of the home page:  www.ctb.ku.edu.
We wish you the best and hope that you will continue to find the Community Tool Box helpful in your work.

Question Date: Tue, 04/28/2015
Question:
Hi, I was very ill with mono for a period of time this semester and due to a professor who won't accept my homework from when I was ill and my grade is border line D. If I do end up getting that Grade is there a way to not show it on my transcript or have it reflect my GPA this late in the year? I am planning on retaking it over the summer.
Answer:

Good day. This is a tough question in large part because it depends on the instructor¹s understanding of your health situation and the institution¹s policy. Although it may be too late now an instructor can be persuaded to give you an incomplete and the time necessary for you to successfully complete your assignments and responsibilities. I often do that when I have students who have health problems and they all work out well in the end. As for the grade not showing up on your transcript that probably won;t happen at least at any institution I¹m aware of in the U.S. If you retake the course this summer and do better than a D some institutions will cancel out the earlier grade. It all depends on the Registrars and the institutions policy.
I¹m sorry to learn your professor wasn¹t a little bit more understanding as the problem you experienced probably could have been avoided.
I wish you well.
‹Joseph

Question Date: Tue, 05/05/2015
Question:
hi here shailendra kamble from mumbai,india . i have my educational institute i want planto make action plan for my institute.
Answer:

Good day to you. Many academic institutions in the U.S. have initiated and completed what is known as a Strategic Action Plan. To learn more about this and how to conduct one I strongly suggest you go to the following links as they will be very helpful:http://ctb.ku.edu/en/table-of-contents/structure/strategic-planning/develop-action-plans/mainhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Strategic_planning
I wish you well in your endeavors.
‹Joseph

Question Date: Thu, 05/14/2015
Question:
I am interested in exploring the Communication with minor in Organizational Leadership.
I have completed my Associates at JCCC, and several classes at KU and was advised to take some online classes through Fort Hays, due to being a nontraditional student with limited accessibility to the KU Lawrence campus.

Fort Hays has an online Organizational Leadership BS, and I would love to compare this to KU Core program.
Answer:

Good day to you. The best approach is to compare the course of study for both programs and then talk with someone at Fort Hays (or KU) to learn what courses at both institutions are transferable; that is, are they comparable and thus acceptable as credit by either one of the schools. I strongly suggest you talk with those who direct or oversee the programs in person to get your questions and concerns answered. I always recommend a face-to face conversation with people in the know.
I wish you well and hope it all works out for you.
‹Joseph

Question Date: Fri, 05/15/2015
Question: How do I sign up for the free online Toolbox course I do not see a link.
Answer:

You may sign up for our online courses through TRAIN here:
http://ctb.ku.edu/en/online-courses

Question Date: Tue, 06/02/2015
Question:
taking "Keeping the City Clean" Campaign, identify and explain the upstream and downstream Social Marketing activities necessary in implementing such a campaign effectively.
Answer:

Good day. The work of the prominent social psychologist, Robert Cialdini PhD, will be very helpful for your campaign. Let me suggest you go to the following internet links:
http://www.theatlantic.com/health/archive/2014/08/littering-and-following-the-crowd/374913/
http://www-personal.umich.edu/~prestos/Downloads/DC/pdfs/Krupka_Oct13_Cialdinietal1990.pdf
http://www.cityethics.org/content/littering-and-government-ethics
http://www.influenceatwork.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/E_Brand_principles.pdf
http://www.boston.com/bostonglobe/magazine/missconduct/2008/08/the_psychology.html
 
Hope this all helps you. His work and suggestions does have a positive influence.
‹Joseph

Question Date: Thu, 06/04/2015
Question:
I have a petition that needs to be printed (including signatures) to a solicitor, how do I go about getting it printed and bound, there are over 323k signatures. Thank you.
Answer:

Good day to you. The first thing you do is make a copy of all of your signatures and get it notarized to authenticate it (and the signatures).
Then take the copy (not the original) to a local printer (like Office Deport, Office Max, FedEx Office Printing, etc.) if there is one available locally and have them print them for you. It¹s important for you to keep the original set intact in the event the solicitor questions their authenticity.
Hope this helps
‹Joseph

Question Date: Fri, 06/05/2015
Question:
Another issue needing clarity as a concern on human health, particularly in India, considering the general approach of gross negligence or over-reaction (like in Maggie) by the so called controlling authorities who seemingly lack consistent testing methods & standards across states within India, thereby causing avoidable misconceptions.
This one pertains to most popular aerated cool drinks.
a) Is pesticide residue in cold drinks dangerous to human liver?
b) If yes, what is the permissible limit?
c) How do brands like Thumps up, Coke, Sprite compare on actuals based on credible testing?
Any comments?
Happy to get educated....
Answer:

a) Is pesticide residue in cold drinks dangerous to human liver? 
Good day and thank you for your questions and concern. For answers to your thoughtful questions go to the following links on the Internet:
http://www.indiaenvironmentportal.org.in/files/labreport2006.pdf
http://www.laleva.cc/food/pesticides_cocacola2.html
http://psep.cce.cornell.edu/facts-slides-self/facts/pes-heef-grw85.aspx
http://www.cseindia.org/userfiles/SOFTDRINK.pdf
https://www.organicconsumers.org/old_articles/Toxic/pepsi_coke_pesticides.php
http://www.toxicsaction.org/problems-and-solutions/pesticides
Additionally the answer to your basic question is a resounding yesŠ.the liver and other digestive organs are definitely influenced by the presence of pesticides in any consumable liquid.
 
As for your second question go to:
http://www.thebuzzmedia.com/what-happens-to-your-body-when-you-drink-coke/
I hope this helps.
‹Joseph

Question Date: Sun, 06/07/2015
Question:
Do you believe in change? Please advice a person who wants to leave their studies, and pursue in changing they community to change the world in future. Please!
Answer:

Thanks you for your probing and thoughtful question, Langa. Yes, I fervently believe in change at numerous levels and I know many, many people, friends, and colleagues who share the same conviction. To effect reasonable societal and individual change one should seriously consider where and how and when they can effectively position themselves to influence positive change and outcomes. But in considering all of those factors one must determine if the outcomes of those in need are desirable?
What are their needs? Goals? Aspirations? And who is it they would choose to influence them and why? But before you attempt to find answers to these probing questions and concerns you have to consider how to best position yourself to effect any change. Most people I know and I know countless of them at numerous levels value educational credentials; many even contest that without them one can¹t hope to be influential and effective. Moreover they argue that if you want to aspire to change then you have to be a model for change by achieving success in desired realms of influence. And that means to take the precious time to complete what you started out to doŠ.finish your studies, get the degree, and then many people will be proud of your accomplishments and admire your tenacity and perseverance.
Those values will spill over into the change you seek to bring about.
People will sense that and value it.
The famed cultural anthropologist Margaret Mead was alleged to have once said to an audience of young people wanting to effect change in the world:
"³Never doubt that a small, group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.² I firmly believe and subscribe to that conviction. You¹re are not going to do it yourself, Langa, as you will need allies who look up to you, admire you, stand behind you, and support you. And one major way to influence that possibility is to achieve success and in your case it means first finish your studies and then move on. That¹s what I didŠ.I was the first of close to 80 relatives to go to college. But I didn¹t stop there and continued to climb upwards in my studies. Once finished I then positioned myself in a place where I thought I could have the greatest influence. I never looked backed and ask what ifŠ.neverŠ.because I did what I believe I had to at first and I¹m completely convinced it was the right decision.
So as you continue to ponder your question also consider what if you stop now and attempt to effect change. Will you regret your decision later one?
Many do and I know lots of them? They spend a good part of their daily life regretting what they could have finished if they only had stayed the course. It doesn¹t take long to finish what you startedŠyou¹re young and you have decades ahead of you.
In spirit,
‹Joseph

Question Date: Sun, 06/07/2015
Question:
Hello my name is Shirley Singleton and I am the Program Director at Families ETC. in Crystal Lake, IL. I would like to know if you have a hard copy of your Community toolbox program. We are in the process of implementing a community youth program for teens in our area.
Answer:

Hello, Shirley,
Thank you so much for using the Community Tool Box. We are pleased that you have found these resources helpful to your work. Unfortunately, we do not have hard copies of the Community Tool Box to distribute at this time. The Community Tool Box contains more than 7,000 pages of material and is an ongoing work in progress. However, you may print materials from the Tool Box by selecting the “SHARE” feature on the top right-hand corner of any page and then selecting the “Print” icon.
Also, we do have hard copies of a CTB Curriculum that we sell, if you are interested in obtaining any of these training resources. There are 16 core competencies covered under our Do the Work (see attached PDF), and the Curriculum Modules cover these competencies in greater depth.  If you are interested in learning more about our Curriculum, please visit http://ctb.ku.edu/en/training-curriculum.
Thank you for your interest in the Community Tool Box, and best wishes in your work.

Question Date: Fri, 06/12/2015
Question: WHAT MODEL WILL BE USE IN CARRYING OUT OIL PALM OUT GROWER SCHEME?
Answer:

Good day Alex and thanks for your question and interest in needs assessment research. I assume you¹re interested in who participates in community based needs assessment. In effect the total effort should be built on the plans and principles of community based participatory research.There are several resources available to you to assist you. For needs assessment research go to:
http://ctb.ku.edu/en/table-of-contents/assessment/assessing-community-needs-and-resources/conducting
http://www.lgbtcenters.org/how-to-do-a-community-needs-assessment.aspx
http://strengtheningnonprofits.org/resources/guidebooks/Community_Assessment.pdf
http://www.cdc.gov/globalhealth/fetp/training_modules/15/community-needs_fguidelines_final_09252013.pdf
https://www.ovcttac.gov/taResources/OVCTAGuides/ConductingNeedsAssessment/pfv.html
 
To explore community based participatory research in more detail go to:
http://depts.washington.edu/ccph/commbas.html
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Community-based_participatory_research
http://archive.ahrq.gov/research/cbprrole.htm
I realize that this a lot of valuable information however if you take the time  to read and study some of them you will be well informed on the topics.
 
I hope this helps.
‹Joseph

Question Date: Mon, 06/15/2015

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