Community health theory and practice: A survey on health and immigrant practices in Somerville, MA

As the immigrant population in the United States grows, foreign-born individuals are becoming increasingly critical to the country's culture, society, and economy. However, immigrants are disproportionately affected by barriers to healthcare and social services that may limit their access to quality services while negatively impacting their growth and development. Building on work done by the International Center for Migration and Health on social insertion, the aim of this research study was to facilitate the wellbeing of immigrant communities in Somerville, MA, by providing immigrant services providers with needed data. Conducted in collaboration with the Immigrant Service Provider's Group in Somerville, this study consisted of an anonymous survey of first generation immigrants. What makes this community-based research project unique is that it was designed collaboratively by students, community members and faculty. In order to engage a greater number of undergraduate students in community initiatives, the study was placed in the context of an undergraduate research seminar entitled Community Health: Theory and Practice. This course was different from a traditional university research seminar in that 1) it was open to community partners and as well as students, 2) community partners played a role in the course design and delivery and 3)students were expected to participate as equal members of the research team, which involved changing traditional classroom dynamics. This paper reports on the design and implementation of both the seminar and study itself. In addition we report on preliminary research findings.