Introduction and Overview of the REENEW Scan Tour and Assessment Guide 

The REENEW Scan Tour and Assessment Guide is a peer-reviewed tool that can be used for conducting environmental assessments at recovery centers to better understand facility needs and support sustainable health improvements. The guide utilizes informal, conversational tours and highlights the importance of tailored interventions based on facility type and client care levels. The guide is suitable for Extension and nonprofit agency personnel, public health workers, community health workers, or those who promote health, nutrition, and wellness in recovery settings. Utilizing an agency tour approach is a valuable method for understanding the needs of a facility, as it allows for more natural and open communication rather than structured forms or interviews. Partners are typically more willing to share insights during a tour. 

Three people talking with eachother.

Overview

Facility Tour/ Environmental Assessment Guide

Conduct a two-way conversation during the facility tour, ensuring a collaborative discussion. Identify key needs and opportunities for improvement.

Educator Review and Summary

After the tour, create a thank-you/follow-up letter that highlights the positive aspects observed during the visit. Include any gaps or needs identified and propose ways to address them together moving forward.

Feedback from the Facility Administrator

Schedule a meeting with the facility administrator to discuss options to help the facility achieve its primary goals.

Action Steps

Develop a detailed action plan that includes specific tasks for both the agency and the facility. Assign timelines to each task to ensure clear responsibilities and measurable progress.

Before Agency Tour

Request an agency tour and thoroughly review the entire environmental assessment guide beforehand for ease of use. Familiarize yourself with the sections (by color) and questions to ensure you are prepared with the necessary information to assess the facility’s needs and potential improvements.

During the Agency Tour

Complete the environmental assessment guide while participating in the guided tour. Inform the tour guide that you will be jotting down some notes. Keep the engagement informal and conversational with your guide while still collecting important data outlined in the guide.
Since the tour guide leads the tour, responses to questions may not follow the order in the guide. Adapt to the flow of the tour as necessary. It is recommended to conduct the environmental guide with a partner. This ensures all important information is captured, and you can compare and debrief immediately after the tour.

Questions and Probes
The numbered questions represent the main areas of focus (some questions may not be applicable depending on the setting). Use probing questions to gather more detailed information. You do not need to ask every probing question. If a question or probe that isn’t in the guide leads to important insights, make sure to document it in the notes section.

Peer Review Logo
Lindsay, A., Heleman, N., Ferraris, J., and Helm, M. 2026, Recovery Environment and Education in Nutrition, Exercise and Wellness Scan, University of Nevada, Reno Extension

Extension Associated Contacts

 

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