Implementing University-Based Wellness: A Participatory Planning Approach

Abstract

Community and work-site wellness programs are increasing in prominence. However, planning and implementing such programs at large bureaucratic institutions are difficult. This project established a wellness program at a major university using a participatory planning approach that is applicable to other complex organizations. University students, faculty, staff, administrators, and retirees volunteered to participate in a 12-week planning project. The project consisted of weekly sessions designed to promote participation, ownership, and problem solving. Activities included information exchange, wellness lifestyle practice, reflection, discussion, and wellness program planning. Participants organized themselves into special task forces to identify campus health problems, barriers, and resources as well as to define goals and implementation strategies for a proposed ongoing university wellness program. A campus-wide university wellness program was implemented the following academic year. The project was effective in overcoming institutional barriers and mobilizing community resources. It is recommended that this approach be used in other settings.