Abstract

Using GIS to Foster an Environment for Healthy Living
Track: Health and Human Services
Authors: Thomas Ray

4-H Interact Club: GSI (GeoSpatial Investigators) have been busy improving their environment to encourage healthy living by changing the food options available at local convenience and grocery stores as well as advocating for more sidewalks, safer parks and trails and functional playgrounds. Utilizing the Nutrition Environment Measurement Survey and GIS, they have created a map that paints the picture of what they believe contributes to North Carolina's 33.5% obesity rate among children - lack of affordable, healthy options and safe, accessible, functional places to be active. With facts in hand, these youth worked with store managers at a convenience stores near their high school to change the position and pricing of healthier options. Students use video interviews, Nutrition Environment Surveys, blogs and of course maps to tell how they are making an impact in Wake County. In this session, you will experience their journey from awareness to powerful impact.

Thomas Ray
4-H/EquipoGIS/Advocates for Health in Action
4001 Carya Drive
Raleigh, North Carolina 27610
United States
Phone: 919-623-2199
E-mail: thomas.boyd.ray@gmail.com