Healthy Cities Illawarra Inc

Healthy Cities Illawarra Inc. (HCI) is a community based non-profit, non-government organisation which receives core funding from the NSW Health Department and the South East Sydney and Illawarra Area Health Service (SESIAHS). HCI is a recognised member of the International Healthy Cities movement which was started in 1985 by the World Health Organisation in response to the need to approach public health in a more holistic, community centred way. HCI was established in November 1987 and operates throughout the local government areas of Wollongong, Shellharbour, Kiama and Shoalhaven. HCI is administered by a management committee comprising representatives from local government, health, environment, education and community sectors. HCI has a proven track record of working in partnership with community, business and government to conduct projects on a wide range of health, social and environmental issues including children's health, community safety, environmental health, community cultural development, healthy ageing, transport, HIV/AIDS prevention and tobacco control. HCI has an experienced workforce and benefits from considerable expertise on its management committee. HCI has established a strong reputation in the Illawarra region as a well managed, credible and committed organisation which strives to be at the forefront of innovative health promotion practice. In 2004, HCI was recognised by the World Health Organisation and awarded the Regional Director's award for its "Commitment to the improvement of the quality of life of its citizens using the Healthy Cities approach". The Healthy Cities philosophy is that our health is affected by environmental, economic, social, mental and physical factors. Because these are big issues, it requires all sectors of the community to work together to improve our society which will in turn improve health. We encourage individuals, groups and businesses to join us and help us work towards the Illawarra and Shoalhaven becoming the healthiest region in Australia. To learn more about Healthy Cities Illawarra, go to our website at www.healthyillawarra.org.au