Hi Gayle.  I am working with the Nova Scotia Nutrition Council and am involved with their participatory food costing project that partnered with Family Resource Centres in the province to engage inidividuals on low-incomes as participatory researchers.  It was helpful that we linked to them through an organization that they were already involved with and trusting of.  It is essential that a trusting relationship be established - this was done through particiatory approaches i.e. we dressed very casual as they would dress when holding meetings/events etc.  As part of the on-going evaluation some preliminary results have shown that they most appreciate dealing with 'real people' rather than experts and being engaged through practical applications and experience sharing.  It was of course essential that we try and eliminate barriers  by  reimbursing for childcare and transportation.  Honorariums for their ! research were also provided to show that their work was valued.  I too agree that if a group were to be formed such as an advisory council it would need to be a homogenous group so that there is no imbalance of power.  The facilitator of this group would need to do just that- facilitate and not lead, and act at their comfort level.  If you  would like to discuss this project further you can call or email me.  Also the Nova Scotia Nutrition Council's website is www.nsnc.ca and follow the research projects link for more information on this and other projects.     Cheers

Christine