Community Health Improvement Planning

Welcome to the Sierra County Health Improvement Plan (CHIP) Page!

The Sierra County Public Health Department, alongside local community partners, is committed to improving the health and well-being of all residents in our county. Through the Community Health Improvement Plan (CHIP), informed by the Community Health Assessment (CHA), we are working together to address the systems and root-cause issues that affect the health and well-being of our community. This collaborative effort brings together a diverse group of community organizations, government agencies, and residents to ensure that health improvements are aligned with the community’s needs, are sustainable, and reduce disparities—so that everyone in Sierra County benefits from these efforts.

Our Vision

Our Vision is for Sierra County to be a place where every resident, regardless of age or background, has the opportunity to lead a healthy life.

Our Goals

The goal of the Sierra County CHIP is to improve the health of our community by focusing on two key priorities, as identified through the CHA process. These priorities are further supported by a cross-cutting theme to enhance communication about community efforts, ensuring that residents are informed, empowered, and engaged in the health improvement initiatives across Sierra County. Our priorities are:

Increasing Access to and Consumption of Nutritious Foods Year-Round

We are committed to ensuring that all Sierra County residents have access to nutritious foods year-round. By supporting local food systems and improving food security, we aim to provide sustainable, nutritious food options that are fresh when seasonably possible. Through clear communication, coordination of resources, and skill-building, we empower our community to continue the tradition of self-reliance, strengthening our bonds and ensuring we all thrive together.

Improving Access to Recreational Activities for Residents of All Ages

We are committed to ensuring that all Sierra County residents, from children to seniors, have access to recreational activities that promote both physical and mental wellness. Recreational activities—whether it's outdoor exercise, indoor game nights, community gatherings, or sports programs—play a crucial role in fostering physical fitness, reducing anxiety, boosting mood, and promoting social connectedness. These activities are especially important in building resilience against challenges such as Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) and supporting mental health. By improving communication and creating diverse opportunities for engagement, we aim to strengthen our community’s well-being, reduce isolation, and build a healthier, more vibrant Sierra County for all.

Cross-Cutting Theme: Improving Communication

Effective communication is essential to both of these health priorities. By enhancing how we share information about community efforts—whether related to food access, recreational opportunities, or other things—we ensure that all Sierra County residents are informed, empowered, and able to take full advantage of the resources and programs available to them.

How We are Working Together

The Sierra County Public Health Department is partnering with local organizations, community leaders, and residents to address our community’s health priorities by building on the strengths and assets already present in Sierra County. Together, we are reimagining what is possible by collaborating across sectors to align diverse resources and develop new strategies to address the root causes of current challenges. Our focus is on developing solutions that are not only sustainable but also measurable, ensuring long-lasting, positive impacts on the health and well-being of all Sierra County residents for generations to come. 

CHIP Work Groups

Want to be involved in community? The CHIP promotes teamwork to achieve measurable, lasting improvements in public health. We need community member involvement and collaboration! 

Join one or more of our community work groups to help meet our CHIP goals!

Nutritious Food Access Work Group

Work Group Charter
08July2025 Meeting Agenda
08July2025 Meeting Notes

Recreation/Activities Work Group

Work Group Charter
10July2025 Meeting Agenda
10July2025 Meeting Minutes

Communications Work Group

Work Group Charter
17July2025 Meeting Agenda
17July2025 Meeting Minutes

What is a Community Health Improvement Plan (CHIP)?

The Community Health Improvement Plan (CHIP) is a strategic framework developed to improve the health and well-being of Sierra County residents. It builds upon the Community Health Assessment (CHA) and focuses on addressing the community health challenges identified through data, public input, and collaboration. The CHIP outlines clear actions, goals, and strategies to tackle those challenges, while ensuring accountability and tracking progress over time.

What is the Community Health Assessment (CHA)?

The Community Health Assessment (CHA) is a comprehensive evaluation of the health status of Sierra County. It involves gathering both quantitative (data-driven) and qualitative (community input) information to understand the key health needs, issues, and opportunities in the community. The CHA provides the foundation for the CHIP by identifying health priorities that the community collectively agrees to address. This process is a partnership between the Sierra County Public Health Department, community organizations, and local residents.

Past Meetings and Events