Connecting the Dots: A Handbook for Chronic Disease Prevention

CTD is a dynamic, multi-sectoral, community engagement1 model that helps communities "work together differently" for better chronic disease outcomes and improved health for all. Health Nexus works with communities to bring together a wide cross-section of community leaders to address complex problems in a new and innovative way.
Key features:

• Creates a climate for creative change and sets the stage for further collaborative work in the community.
• Builds capacity through increased knowledge of resources (including people and organizations), as well as specific knowledge about a health-related issue.
• Bridges people from across the chronic disease continuum - health promotion, public health, hospitals, community services, and long-term care - and from sectors such as social services, education, housing, and recreation.

Each CTD is community-driven. Most include a multi-sectoral planning committee, a community forum, and follow-up. But the CTD model is more than just an event; it's about the continuous process of maintaining connections, generating new partnerships and collaborations, and learning from each other.