Publication Type: Proceeding
Abstract: Abstract
Historically, faith-based organizations made important contributions in the field of social provision, but with the advent of the modern welfare state, their role diminished dramatically. This article examines and explains the renewed interest in the United States and Britain in publicly funded faith-based social provision. Despite significant differences between the two countries, their governments have endorsed strikingly similar faith-based initiatives that have institutionalized the relationship between the state and faith-based organizations. This study explains the emergence of faith-based initiatives as one component of welfare state restructuring, and more specifically, as a response to the growing problem of minority’ social exclusion in urban areas. Finally, the article explores the possibility of the policy’s spread to other countries.

Publication Type: Conference Paper/Unpublished Manuscript
Abstract: The paper traces relationships between the Government of Canada and civil society organizations in moving forward the development of the UNESCO Cultural Diversity Convention, which was approved at the UNESCO General Assembly of October 2005. The Convention addresses key issue sin communication and culture, focusing on the promotion of national and sub-national spheres for communication and cultural exchange, as well as the promotion of human rights and the international exchange of ideas. Have the policies and proposals to promote cultural diversity changed as the forum for discussion of the issue has moved from the International Network on Cultural Policy to UNESCO? Have the roles of civil society groups, international organizations changed over this time. In what ways has the Government of Canada’s input and role changed with this shift? In what ways has the input of civil society groups, especially that of the Canadian-based International Network for Cultural Diversity, and the Coalition for Cultural Diversity, changed in the last three years? The paper compares a number of proposals, draft texts for the convention, and critiques of draft texts to illustrate approaches to a number of the key issues at stake in the formation of this convention.

Publication Type: Conference Paper/Unpublished Manuscript
Abstract: With its formal features to afford behavior rehearsal in a safe and entertaining way as well as to tailor to individuals, computer game is a promising channel to promote diet and weight management. This paper reports the development and evaluation of a computer game named RightWay Café to promote a healthy diet for young adults. The content of the game was developed based on behavior change theories. A randomized controlled evaluation study demonstrates that this game is effective in teaching nutrition and weight management knowledge and increasing people’s self-efficacy and perceived benefit of healthy eating as well as their intention to be on a healthy diet. This study validates the computer game based approach to health promotion for young adults.

Publication Type: Roundtable
Abstract: This session is designed to acquaint participants with a rationale and current model for promoting altruistic behavior in children. The model is based in an extensive review of research on altruistic behavior and theories concerning the development of altruism. Findings from a qualitative case study will also be presented along with implications for teacher training and practical applications.

Publication Type: Abstract
Abstract: Objectives/intent: To evaluate the success of an elective course in Native American culture, health and service learning in fostering interest in careers with the USPHS Indian Health Service (IHS). Methods: The authors have offered a pharmacy elective course (PHA 341) focused on cultural and health-related issues in Native American populations since 2003. Enrollment is limited to 3-4 second or third year pharmacy students who engage in readings, keep and share reflective journals, hold discussions with Native and non-Native speakers from nearby reservations and the Omaha urban American Indian community, research and present on a Native American health issue, and spend their fall break in Chinle, AZ providing social and healthcare services to the Diné people under the supervision of IHS pharmacists. Two of the 14 classroom sessions are used to educate on additional elective experiences with IHS, including Jr. COSTEP and advanced practice rotations. An additional hour is devoted to discerning the Creator’s call to a professional life of service. Results/outcomes: Eleven students have enrolled PHA 341. Of these, 4 have applied for a Jr. COSTEP (3 accepted, one pending), 6 of 8 third-year students have requested IHS rotations, and 3 of 5 fourth-year students have applied for an IHS residency. Implications: Providing students with opportunities for immersion in a culture rich in tradition and values, and desperately underserved, coupled with opportunities for collaborative learning, guided reflection and focused professional mentoring, can result in the selection of careers of service to those in need.