THURS-047 - Extension Health Ambassadors: A Volunteer Framework for Community Outreach and Education

Brief Abstract Summary: Proposing a community-driven approach to amplify Extension health programming in rural areas, this program focuses on DEIA in volunteerism. Utilizing the Asset-Based Community Development (ABCD) model, our project aims to address health disparities in the state’s rural populations. Participants will learn about the following: utilization of the ABCD model to recruit Extension Health Ambassadors from target communities, ensuring the representation and inclusion of diverse voices; the development of tailored health education training materials; equipping volunteers with the knowledge and skills needed to deliver effective community-based health programs; and how to increase access to Extension public health programs in underserved rural areas. This approach prioritizes equity and inclusion, empowering rural communities to manage their health address and health access challenges.

Detailed abstract description: This session outlines a comprehensive approach to amplify health programming by engaging and training community volunteers as Extension Health Ambassadors. By partnering with Cooperative Extension Service County Extension Agents, this project is bridging the gap in healthcare access and education in underserved rural areas. Rural areas face significant health disparities, exacerbated by factors such as limited access to healthcare services and a shortage of healthcare providers. Traditional health promotion efforts have shown reduced effectiveness in these regions. By adopting a community-driven approach, the aim is to address these challenges by building upon the strengths and assets within these communities.
This project employs Asset-Based Community Development (ABCD) to recruit Extension Health Ambassadors from target communities. This model emphasizes identifying and utilizing existing community assets to drive sustainable development. The project also utilizes the Promotores de Salud approach, recruiting community volunteers who share characteristics with the target population. Additionally, the Community Organizer and Capacity Builder Model is employed to promote community action and garner support for health-related initiatives. This ground-up approach empowers communities to identify and prioritize their own needs, utilizing available assets and resources.
Participants can expect to gain a clear understanding of utilizing the ABCD community engagement model, the development of health education training materials, and strategies to increase access to Extension public health programs. The presentation will introduce participants to innovative approaches such as the Promotores de Salud model and the Community Organizer and Capacity Builder Model. Participants will learn how these approaches empower communities to address their own health needs. Attendees will gain insight into the recruitment and training efforts undertaken in Year 1 of the project, including the enlistment of Extension Health Ambassadors. Participants will learn about the formative evaluation approach used to develop project products, ensuring their feasibility, appropriateness, and acceptability before full implementation. By the end of the presentation, participants will recognize the potential impact of the project in addressing rural health disparities and improving health outcomes for residents of underserved communities.
The proposed presentation serves as a crucial step toward building infrastructure to advance diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility (DEIA) policies and practices within volunteer systems and programs. By employing the ABCD model and innovative community engagement strategies, the presentation emphasizes the integration of DEIA principles into the volunteer recruitment and training process, ensuring diverse voices and perspectives are represented and valued within the program.