Developing capacity for community-based participatory research with minority women

In Richmond, Virginia, minority women are disproportionately affected by teen pregnancy, depression, substance abuse, inadequate prenatal care and poor birth outcomes. Their health challenges are related to social and economic factors, with no formal system of comprehensive health promotion and health care for women. The VCU Institute for Women's Health collaborating with the Richmond Healthy Start Initiative and community partners has implemented a seed grants program for research to benefit the health of Richmond area women. Program objectives are: (1) Support pilot studies on priority health concerns of women and girls in the Richmond area; (2) Develop capacity to conduct community-based participatory research; and (3) Improve the health of women and girls by translating research findings into programs that benefit the population. Peer review including community members focused on scientific merit and fidelity to the principles of community-based participatory research (CBPR); nine projects were funded in the first round. Project objectives were met with resounding success. Grantees participated in group discussions about CBPR, sharing their experiences and learning from each other. Several projects faced obstacles that could not be overcome within available time and resources, resulting in creative ways to adapt original plans to actual situations, with the involvement and assistance of community partners. Based on Round 1 effectiveness, funding is continued for additional awards. We conclude that, with oversight and ongoing skills-building, seed grants can be a viable method to develop solid university-community research partnerships toward improved minority women's health, also providing opportunities for faculty and student career development.