Addressing Adverse Community Environments: Participant Recommendations to Foster Community Well-Being

Abstract

Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) encompass childhood trauma linked to chronic health issues. Often discussed on a micro-level, ACEs need a holistic perspective, emphasizing community-based research and contextual resilience to address systemic barriers effectively. Following the principles of community-based participatory research, two focus groups, composed of 15 people, were conducted to learn about community members' recommendations on what would be supportive for their communities. The study investigates the built environment, values, and resource accessibility, emphasizing the importance of outdoor access, community spaces, connectedness, and inclusive resource provision. The findings contribute to the literature by comprehensively understanding residents' perspectives on neighborhood well-being, explicitly highlighting the significance of a well-designed built environment, shared values, and accessible resources in fostering resilient and vibrant communities.