The engagement of the rural community of Cassia dos Coqueiros (S. Paulo State, Brazil) in health programs with the creation of an association entity congregating people with leadership is presented. Responsibilities for execution of some community tasks of these programs were given to the partnership. The results achieved in the development of health education programs are commented. A program of construction of pit privies was developed on the sponsorship of the association entity with good results. Improvement of the frequency of health examination and of the relationship of the people with the local health center is also commented.
Social medicine; Rural health; Health education; Medical care