Best Start Resource Centre Launches Aboriginal Sharing Circle Virtual Network

Network will support those working with Aboriginal Peoples in areas of preconception, prenatal and child health

Toronto, May 25 – The Best Start Resource Centre, a key program of Health Nexus, is pleased to announce the launch of its new Aboriginal Sharing Circle virtual network (BSASC). The network is designed for service providers working with Aboriginal Peoples in areas of preconception, prenatal and child health. The network will serve as a forum to share news, ideas, questions and best practices.

“We have received feedback from our community indicating a need to increase knowledge exchange among those working with Aboriginal groups, and we have listened,” said Wendy McAllister, Manager of the Best Start Resource Centre. “We hope that the network will serve as a place where all feel welcome to contribute, discuss and share.”This online network will help support program staff, community workers, policy developers and others working with Aboriginal Peoples in the areas of preconception to early childhood, which includes the health of those planning a pregnancy, pregnant women, parents, babies and children.

“Creating a space that encourages collaboration and innovation on such important topics is essential, even more so given decreased funding to the sector,” said Barb Willet, Executive Director of Health Nexus. “We offer this network in response to this need, and we look forward to what may result from the discussions and sharing that will take place.”

The virtual network consists of a moderated listserv which will facilitate discussion and maximize reach across the province.

List subscribers are be encouraged to:
•    Share information that may be of interest to others working in the field (for example, new resources, the latest research, new strategies and approaches)
•    Ask questions to others regarding issues related to programs for pregnant women, parents, and child health
•    Announce upcoming learning and networking opportunities such as upcoming conferences, events and exhibitions

Those interested in joining the network may do so at:http://beststart.org/services/information.html

‐ 30 ‐

About Best Start Resource Centre
The Best Start Resource Centre (BSRC) is Ontario’s Maternal Newborn and Early Child Development Resource Centre. Since 1998 it has been supporting service providers across the province working on health promotion projects to improve the health of expectant parents and young children.  In addition to service provider tools and multi‐lingual resources for parents, Best Start Resource Centre provides workshops, conferences and consultations. Best Start Resource Centre is funded by the Ontario Government and is a key program of Health Nexus, Ontario’s longest standing bilingual health promotion organization.

About Health Nexus
Health Nexus is a bilingually‐designated non‐profit health promotion organization. Their broad approach to health includes health equity, chronic disease prevention and early child development. Over the last 25 years they have been supporting health services workers and health promotion organizations develop and implement strategies to improve the health of their communities. Their services include training, consultations, workshops, information sharing, resources and much more.