UBC Reports | Vol. 47 | No. 16 | October 18, 2001

Scholar's research guides service for children, families

United Way program supports first five years

UBC's contribution to the United Way is usually measured in dollars, but for Health Care and Epidemiology Prof. Clyde Hertzman, this year's donation is knowledge.

Hertzman has provided the organization with research data to support Success By 6, a program supported by United Way donors that aims to strengthen early childhood development services to children up to age six and their families throughout the Lower Mainland.

"Dr. Hertzman's support has been invaluable and his research has made a clear case for the critical importance of the first five years of life to children's health, well-being and coping skills," says Sheila McFadzean who co-ordinates the project at United Way.

Hertzman investigates determinants of health and has worked with the agency to develop a community asset map that shows resources available in Vancouver to support children's healthy development.

The school board, health board and community groups participated in the research that identifies where children up to age six are living, what their learning needs are and the extent of neighbourhood resources.

Hertzman's methodology is also being used in other Lower Mainland communities and throughout the province.

The data will help to inform the expansion and improvement of family resource programs and development of many new programs in under-serviced communities, says McFadzean.

"This was a very productive community collaboration," says Hertzman, director of Population Health for the Canadian Institute for Advanced Research. "The United Way gains information from us and we gain access to community agencies to conduct research."

"It's very encouraging that United Way has taken on the child welfare agenda with this project," he adds.

UBC's United Way campaign total stands at $204,234. This year's goal is $395,000. The campaign continues to Oct. 31.

More information

www.unitedway.ubc.ca