What We Do
Creating change agents to find new approaches to health and wellness.
Knowledge Translation & Mobilization
The Alberta Family Wellness Initiative (AFWI) supports the translation of scientific knowledge into forms that are easy for non-scientists to understand. It disseminates this information in a number of ways: at events, through resources, tools, and curricula, and across a range of media. The process of making scientific information broadly accessible is called knowledge mobilization, and its goal is to shift conversations, catalyze change, and support strong brain architecture and good mental health for children and families.
Professional Development & Training
Researchers, practitioners, and policy-makers who work with children and families need opportunities to enhance their skills, explore new ideas, and make professional connections. To provide these opportunities, the AFWI partners with leading experts and institutions across North America representing a range of disciplines and sectors. These partnerships work to develop educational tools, curricula, and training programs for Albertans working in the fields of child development, mental health, and addiction.
Developing Change Agents
The AFWI operates, supports, and is involved with several initiatives focused on mobilizing knowledge to bring about widespread change. To do this, the initiative supports and communicates new research in early childhood development and its effect on health outcomes across the lifespan; sustains and disseminates Brain Story-based preventive intervention programs; and leverages the internal capacities and communications networks of community-based organizations. The goal of these partnerships and projects is to effect organizational and systemic change in Alberta and beyond.