Community Genetics and Ethics Projects

The goal of the Community Genetics and Ethics Project (CGEP) is to enhance community-based participation in consideration of the ethical, legal and social implications (ELSI) of the Human Genome Project and the 'new genetics.' The aims are: to inform a large number of individuals from a broad array of backgrounds about scientific aspects of the new genetics; to raise awareness within its region of how the new genetics and its applications may affect people's lives; to foster interactive community dialogue about ELSI issues; to encourage widespread participation in societal decisions about use of the new genetics; to raise awareness among professionals of how the new genetics and ELSI issues may play a role in their work and in the lives of those their work touches; to create ongoing regional community-based networks for use of individuals and institutions in dealing with ELSI issues; and to create a nationally replicable model for meaningful, community-based discussion of ELSI issues. To achieve these aims, CGEP will hold a series of Retreats, Discussion Groups, and Community Forums; compile and circulate a community resource directory; publish a newsletter; establish a site on the World Wide Web; prepare and circulate a final report including participation, evaluation and outcome of CGEP programs; and create assessment tools, a compendium of relevant materials, and a manual describing and evaluation project components, for use by others considering similar programs.