COMMUNITY HEALTH PARTICIPATORY PLANNING
WHAT IT IS NOT
The previous pages of this workbook have provided an overview of the CHPP process,
the essential elements, and strengths and outcomes of the CHPP process. It is time to examine
the limitations of this model and describe what this model is not.
Community Health Participatory Planning is not:
• Another model (book/binder) to put on the shelf and say “well, that was interesting”.
• Strict procedures that must be followed.
• An external process that you start and watch.
• A model that works without a strong facilitator (with passion!) who works hard to get
things accomplished.
• A wait and see model.
• Complicated. This means that with the right amount of nurturing and getting the right
people in the right place at the right time wonderful things can happen.
• A planning model, even though planning is in its title. CHPP is an action model. Right
from the first organized chat, the community becomes poised for action.
• Without boundaries. This means that for the idea to come to fruition it must be specific
and measurable. The process cannot solve problems without clear direction and positive
action.
• Slow. The process demands maintaining speed and momentum and respect for time.
• An individual effort. No matter how great or impassioned the facilitator, a strong team
working effectively is necessary to achieve the higher order goals that CHPP professes.
• Easy. Taking calculated but prudent risks are what the process is most perfect for. CHPP
invites the community to become willing to act without requiring total assurance that the
outcomes will be successful.
• Sloppy. Do not be misled concerning the open ended beginning of the process. Looking
at the consequences of action (or inaction) and decisions from the perspective of the
community is an empowering catalyst for change.
• New. Not really. Innovation and empowerment have always been the cornerstone of
seeking a better more efficient and effective way to mobilize people to do the right thing.
CHPP simply allows the group to become active in their own change while seeking to
assist the community as a whole. This process allows us to look for a new way to
implement old ideas.