The STRIDE Focus Group Program consists of 17 trained Cal Poly students and three community members, all of whom lead discussions within the community on health-related topics. As a support to San Luis Obispo's medical, educational and social agencies, the program helps to develop a better understanding of the beliefs, values and barriers to health.
The program also provides participating Cal Poly students with the opportunity to gain practical experience in health research, as well as providing them with exposure to diverse sectors within San Luis Obispo County. Students learn first-hand the skills and knowledge necessary to reach and fully understand an audience.
To get more information about how Focus Groups have affected the San Luis Obispo community in the past, click here.
Right now, the Focus Group Team is evaluating the effectiveness of the SLO County WIC Wellness Program, which promotes nutrition and physical activity among employees. WIC Coordinator Linda McClure began the program to bring about positive health changes in workers, and in turn, their families and clients.
As part of the program, employees receive discounted memberships to Kennedy Health Center and YMCA and also receive nutrition tips and cooking demos. So far, the Focus Group Team has found that employees are appreciative that their employer is concerned about their health, but they generally find it difficult to schedule time for physical activity in their busy days. One hour of office time a month is devoted to the program and their hectic schedules do not leave a great deal of time for them to exercise on their own.