This paper shares the experiences of 3 occupational therapists whose work has been guided by health promotion and mental health promotion principles while using community development strategies. Although health promotion has been lauded for over 2 decades as a useful model from which to practice community occupational therapy, few illustrations of its application to practice exist. The Ottawa Charter for Health Promotion is reviewed as a starting point from which to frame mental health promotion and community development strategies. Two group programs are presented to illustrate an occupational therapy application of the health promotion model and community development strategies within a primary health care setting. Lessons learned from the therapists' work are shared in terms of conceptual understandings of community occupations, consumer barriers to participation, sustainability of community development projects, and balancing individual client issues with community-level interventions. The programs exemplify the role of occupational therapy in the development of community participation opportunities for interested individuals.
This research study portrays work initiatives for persons with serious mental illness in Canada. It considers 2 earlier papers on vocational programs and services to point out developments and current status in the field. Through a content analysis of documents collected from work initiatives across Canada, core values, models, and practices in the area of work integration are presented. Findings point to a consistent belief in the capacity of consumers to develop their work potential, to engage in the labour force, and to experience the many benefits of work. Results also reveal evidence of an increased emphasis on consumer initiatives, partnerships within the community, and negotiation of environmental factors, including workplace accommodations. Examples of work initiatives are provided, and suggestions for further research are offered.
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