Transitioning from CHIP to CHIRP: blending community health development with community-based participatory research.

In 2006, a community health development model was used to engage citizens in Jefferson County, Oregon, around local health concerns. Childhood obesity emerged as a priority health issue. In 2007, a research component was introduced by Oregon Health & Science University to help the community garner resources and inform the field. This case study describes the collaboration between the Mountain View Community Health Improvement Partnership and Oregon Health & Science University to increase the number of county children at a healthy weight. Research and projects occurred simultaneously since community members are motivated by action, and research is a slower process.