Chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease, some cancers, and diabetes are among the most prevalent, costly, and preventable of all health problems. More than 1.7 million people die of chronic disease estimated by the Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion. North Nashville is a community similar to many urban neighborhoods facing a health crisis with high rates of death due to heart disease and diabetes. The modern culture promotes physical inactivity and high fat fast foods. In order to make behavioral changes people must have information, motivation, and support. The Health and Wellness Team of Nashville REACH 2010 Project is encouraging North Nashville faith-based organizations to create self-sustaining wellness programs. Programs aimed at increasing members’ knowledge of the benefits of exercise and good nutritional habits. Working with local organizations, to identify the congregation’s health promotion needs as it relates to diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. The results of the surveys help to identify the types of educational, nutritional, and physical fitness activities that members are more likely to participate in from a particular congregation. A health friendly church will influence the health of members, by demonstrating ways to live healthier. Education and prevention efforts will lead members to the mission of Nashville REACH 2010, reducing, and eliminating disparities of diabetes and cardiovascular disease in African Americans of North Nashville. Learning Objectives: 1. Facilitating understanding of the threat diabetes and heart disease present to a faith-based organization 2. Translating information into concepts and working programs for community faith-based organization 3. Limitations/restraints in working with faith-based organizations Description of strategies: The approach used in the faith-based health promotion is to first gauge understanding of how the people view the issues concerning diabetes, heart disease, and preventable risk factors such as exercise and healthy eating habits. Giving the faith-based organization the tools to help them plan activities that are beneficial in reducing the risk factors primary to the development of diabetes and heart disease.