Brown·Miller Communications, Inc.

It was the ideal situation—dedicated, passionate health professionals in every corner of the state working to improve the nutrition of Californians. Only one problem—everyone was working alone. Petty arguments, territorialism and a history of failed collaborations had prevented these health professionals from harnessing their strengths and playing a key role in improving their community’s health. Brown·Miller Communications was brought in by the Department of Health Services’ Nutrition Network to mobilize over 500 of these disparate players into collaboratives of action. Working in every part of the state, we developed 11 collaboratives—helping members identify resources and strategies, iron out differences, recognize potential and enhance communications. Most importantly, we put these fledgling collaboratives into action—guiding them in the execution of local media and advocacy campaigns that would enhance the nutrition environment in their communities and build on their self-confidence. In less than a year, the collaboratives were the mainstay of local and statewide communications for the Nutrition Network. With our ongoing technical assistance and support, the collaboratives became key resources for the media, policymakers and community leaders, successfully staging forums, special events and press conferences to raise awareness of local nutrition issues and advocate for improvements.