Curing Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) & Breaking the Poverty Cycle
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OUR APPROACH
Our unique approach is based first and foremost on community engagement. We believe that in order to have a successful and sustainable program, the community itself must lead the way. Our program aims to work with community partners to identify blocks for community health, and to target the different layers within a community that can collaborate to work towards complete elimination of these diseases. The program focuses on three main elements:
PRINCIPLES OF COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
The first step towards engaging the community is mapping the population and identifying the main stakeholders. The main goal is to create a dialog between the main stakeholders that will encourage collaboration and ownership of the process of eradicating NTDs. The role of the program implementer is to facilitate and give technical assistance. Community volunteers are a key driving force for the success of the intervention. They have a direct stake in the success of the project as it affects their own lives, and the lives of their families and relatives.
HEALTH EDUCATION
Education is a crucial channel to true behavioral change. NALA's educational program gives local volunteers the tools to teach both school students and the greater community about the different disease vectors, the symptoms and methods of prevention. The dedicated volunteers work with the communities to change the attitude towards NTDs, understand the importance of their eradication and facilitate the behavioral change necessary for a healthier society.
DRUG ADMINISTRATION
Medical treatment is a vital part of disease eradication. NALA works alongside local governments administering drug distributions to ensure that vulnerable populations receive the proper medication to eradicate the diseases.
WASH - WATER, SANITATION AND HYGIENE
WASH programs give communities access to the infrastructure necessary to lead healthier lives. Without this basic infrastructure, latrines, hand washing stations, etc, it is challenging to facilitate meaningful behavioral change. NALA is helping develop community based WASH programs, utilizing local capacities and materials to create and maintain the necessary solutions. Learn more about the WASH program and the community's lead role in the process.