To investigate innovative communication strategies and help promote resilience among communities, Dr. Dean Schillinger of UCSF is partnering with Youth Speaks, a community-based youth arts and empowerment organization in his CPR3-funded research. Dr. Schillinger’s project will assess the use of arts-based programs as a tool for equitable pandemic recovery and preparedness among youth of color. This project aims to enhance California’s ability to connect with marginalized communities.
One of CPR3’s funded projects that exemplifies community engagement and inclusion is Dr. Alana LeBrón’s study out of UC Irvine investigating community-based mental health promotion strategies. During the proposal evaluation process, reviewers highlighted not only the project’s technical rigor but also the clear commitment to centering communities as major strengths of Dr. LeBrón’s research plan. From offering interviews in English and Spanish, to providing childcare to participants during data collection and dissemination events, to giving community health workers a leading role in the work and financially compensating community partners, Dr. LeBron’s project is grounded in and tailored to community needs.