Lessons Learned From the Uniontown Community Health Project

Mary Ann Littleton, PhD; Carol E.Cornell, PhD; Mark Dignan, PhD, MPH, FAAHB Nell Brownstein, PhD; James M. Raczynski, PhD; Varena Stalker, BSSW, MPA Kathleen McDuffie, PhD, MPH; Paul G. Greene, PhD; Bonnie Sanderson, PhD, RN Barb Streumpler, PhD  

Objective: To compile lessons learned from the Uniontown Community Health Project. Methods: Lessons-learned information was gathered from project staff and community volunteers. Results: Analysis led to the identification of 6 lessons: (a) Establish personal working relationships in communities; (b) find a local community coordinator to lead efforts; (c) be patient in implementing a community health advisor (CHA) model; (d) be flexible and emphasize simplicity when implementing community activities; (e) recognize that meeting research goals requires compromise; and (f) plan transfer of project activities to the community from the beginning. Conclusion: These lessons may benefit others implementing CHA programs.
Am J Health Behav 2002;26(1):34-4