Community Health Institute

Skill-Building for Healthy Living

These programs include conferences, workshops, and behavior change programs that address common health challenges in the community.

Diabetes Prevention Program

This free, one-year program helps people at risk of developing diabetes make lifestyle changes and improve their diet to prevent the onset of diabetes. Delivered in English and Spanish, and soon in Portuguese, this program is led by a trained lifestyle coach who supports participants as they make changes with a goal of losing five to seven percent of their body weight. It begins with weekly one-hour sessions in the first six months and tapers off to monthly maintenance sessions.  

Learn more about the Diabetes Prevention Program online, or contact Ana Almeida-DoRosário at [email protected] or 401-444-8069.

Food Is Medicine

This four-week class teaches participants how to prepare nutritious meals that can improve their well-being on a limited budget. Delivered in our Community Demonstration Kitchen or another community space, participants observe preparation of one dish each week, sample the recipe and learn how to decrease their risk of obesity and related chronic diseases. 

To learn more about this free course contact Jeanette Nessett at [email protected] or call 401-444-8088.

A Taste of African Heritage

This six-week class offers an introduction to the African Heritage Diet and is also delivered in our Community Demonstration Kitchen and other community spaces. Learn about the foods and regional flavors of the African diaspora and the nutrition and evidence-based health benefits of eating traditionally. 

To learn more about this free course contact Jeanette Nessett at [email protected] or call 401-444-8088.

Brown University Health Community Health Ambassadors

This monthly, free education series convenes the second Tuesday of the month over Zoom and provides an opportunity for the community to come together to learn, discuss, strategize, and coordinate a response to common health challenges. A different topic is featured every month. Brown University Health colleagues are welcomed as presenters. 

For information or to register, contact Jeanette Nessett at [email protected] or call 401-444-8088.

Parenting Matters Conference and Workshops

The annual half-day conference offers a keynote speaker and breakout workshops teaching practical information about raising children and teens. Speakers are all experts on child development, behavioral health, or related topics. In addition, evening workshops are held intermittently during the year and feature a single speaker who presents in depth on a topic of interest. 

For more information or if you are interested in being a speaker, contact Victoria Lugo at [email protected] or 401-444-8076.

Conferencia Temas Familiares

This annual workshop, delivered entirely in Spanish, provides resources for Spanish-speaking residents about parenting, behavioral health, and other health concerns impacting their children. Speakers are all experts on child development, behavioral health, or related topics.

Please contact Victoria Lugo at [email protected] or 401-444-8076 if interested in learning more or being a speaker.

American Heart Association (AHA) Community Training Center

CPR, AED and First Aid Classes

A variety of classes are offered to teach lifesaving skills consistent with the current American Heart Association CPR and First Aid guidelines. Both certified and non-certified CPR classes are offered to Brown University Health employees and the community. 

For more information, contact Robin Zaman at [email protected] or call 401-444-8009.

Health Literacy

This free workshop will help you navigate the healthcare system, make informed medical decisions, prepare for your medical visits, and direct you to additional resources.  

For more information, contact Victoria Lugo at [email protected] or call 401-444-8076

Facilitated Video Trainings

CHI delivers facilitated trainings through films related to our work, and participants can apply community action tools used for advocacy. In Unnatural Causes, participants learn about social policy and social determinants of health through an acclaimed documentary that teaches root causes of socio-economic and racial inequities in health. Raising of America explores how a strong start for all our kids can lead to a healthier, safer, better educated and more prosperous and equitable nation. The Weight of the Nation looks at the long-term health consequences of obesity from an individual and societal standpoint.  

For more information, contact Ana Almeida-DoRosário at [email protected] or call 401-444-8069.

Learn more about what we do at CHI