Public health problems such as violence, sexually transmitted diseases and mental health problems disproportionately affect young men of color. However, young men are underrepresented among public health providers. Here we present the Boston HealthCREW (Community Resources for Empowerment and Wellness) a model that provides urban men of color with marketable skills in community-based public health. The goal of the HealthCREW is to train and to prepare a cadre of young men of color, between the ages 18-25 years, to provide health education to their peers in the community, while also pursuing their own health career goals. Participants in the program receive training as certified health educators and complete a rigorous, yearlong curriculum designed to enhance their life skills, promote their professional development and increase their sensitivity to community issues. Since the program’s inception, 75% of the participants enrolled have completed the training and internship. Of the HealthCREW participants who have completed the program, 89% are employed and 78% are employed in public health related careers. Evaluation of program components indicates that successful participants gain competency in community organizing, leadership skills, outreach and cultural competence. An evaluation of internship placements reveals that HealthCREW graduates are valued public health team members. The HealthCREW is a successful model of community-based public health employment training for young men of color in Boston. A critical component of the program’s success is the integration of didactic training with community-based practice throughout the program. We propose that this model can be replicated in other urban settings.
Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of the session, the participant in the session will be able to: 1) Identify components of a successful health career development program for young men of color. 2) Understand the critical components of curriculum development and evaluation of the model. 3) Replicate the program in other urban centers
Keywords: Community Outreach, Youth
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.