The Center in the Park, (CIP) a senior community center in Northwest Philadelphia, successfully developed a new and creative platform to spread the message about diabetes screening- the stage!

As a 2009 MDSP Award Winner, the Center in the Park developed a cast of older adult volunteers into a health theatre group called the CIP Living Well Players. These CIP volunteers created and performed skits, promoting the MDSP message to their peers at multiple venues in Northwest Philadelphia. After performing short skits, the Living Well Players shared testimonies about their personal battles with diabetes.

The Living Well Players not only encouraged their peers to get screened for diabetes, but also served as a support group for each other. Often, the group met outside of rehearsals or performances to talk about diabetes and keep each other accountable.

A total of 541 older adults received the MDSP message through live performances of the CIP Living Well Players.  In addition, a live broadcast on WURD 900 AM radio featured the Living Well Players and had a potential listenership of over 35,000. The Living Well Players’ messages will continue to reach seniors through a professionally edited DVD that has been distributed to local outreach health clinics and geriatric practices.

The Living Well Players’ model of diabetes screening outreach and education is one that MDSP believes can be replicated in communities across the country. Additional information about CIP can be obtained at www.centerinthepark.org

To read a full report from the CIP Living Well Players click here

Press Release