Evaluating the CCB initiative is essential and should be planned at the same time as the implementation plan. At the end of the project, an evaluation report should be shared with the community and team members to share the impact and learnings to inform future CCB efforts.

The implementation strategy should be inclusive of the community, which can be challenging and time consuming. However, this is a crucial aspect of CCB. CCB is a long-term approach that involves a shared vision and the ability to adapt to changes.

Create goals and objectives that align with the previously identified strategies and interventions. A goal is a broad statement that outlines the outcomes you want to achieve. For each goal, determine objectives that include specific measurable actions and a timeframe to guide you through each step of the process.

Connect with information sources both from inside and outside of your community. Both can provide evidence-based information, information resources, and learning opportunities that can be used to build and maintain community capacity. Seek organizations that do knowledge translation (i.e., summarize current research and create user-friendly resources) in your area of focus. The Saskatchewan Prevention Institute is an example of a knowledge translation organization.

Explore and identify strategies and interventions that could help to address the issue of interest. Local community organizations, services, and community members can be called on to participate. Existing strengths and resources can be built on and further capacity developed. This approach enhances the sense of responsibility in the community.

Assessing the community capacity and readiness for the change desired will give information on where to start. It is important to celebrate strengths and leverage assets.

It is important to define the community (or communities) that will be working together to address the issue of concern. The term “community” can describe specific people with something in common, a region, a neighborhood, or the broader public.

By understanding the underlying causes and challenges to improving the chosen issue, this will help to identify some of the potential challenges that the CCB initiative will face. Potential challenges may include important services not being available; remote or rural locations; and barriers such as financial, technology, and language.

Start by exploring what potential health-related issue to focus on. Once the issue of focus is determined, more in-depth research should be done to learn more and define the issue as it relates to your community.