Evaluating community capacity to address obesity in the Dan River region: a case study

To qualitatively evaluate community capacity among an emerging coalition initiated to address complex regional obesity problems.

Guided by dimensions of community capacity, this case study applies semistructured qualitative interviews among 12 key stakeholders engaged in the Dan River Partnership for a Healthy Community (DRPHC).

In-depth qualitative data reveals important contextualized information related to community capacity dimensions such as participation, community power, resources, leadership, organizational structure, and partnership.

Findings have provided critical direction for the continued development and sustainability of DRPHC efforts. Others could apply a similar evaluation to better understand factors that promote the development and maintenance of their coalitions.