What are the qualities that make for a successful local champion? Look for the following qualities as a guideline. They include:
- Deeply involved with the community
- Trusted and respected source by community members
- High visibility, if possible (Mayor, School Board President, Community council member, business owner, local pharmacist, etc.)
- Willing to make the time. If your champion is too busy, they won’t be able to support the coalition needs. Make sure they are willing to put in the time commitment and be upfront with expectations.
- Willing to make asks of their community contacts and use their influence to push the action plan forward.