Evolution and Evaluation of Project FAITH (Fostering AIDS Initiatives the Heal): Lessons Learned

Issues: Recently faith-based organizations (FBOs) have taken a more proactive role in providing HIV prevention services within local communities. As FBOs implement HIV prevention programs, new challenges arise across administrative, programmatic, and community levels. This session focuses on lessons learned from Project FAITH, an HIV prevention and stigma reduction intervention for African American FBOs in South Carolina.

Description: Project FAITH is a demonstration project of the South Carolina HIV/AIDS Council (SCHAC), funded through a state legislative initiative. Each year, FBOs from across South Carolina apply for funding to implement HIV prevention programs within their congregations and local communities. SCHAC provides on-going technical support and guidance for each FBO and conducts an evaluation of the project.

Lessons Learned: The purpose of this presentation is to share lessons learned in the first four years of Project FAITH at both the project and FBO levels. At the project level, lessons include: 1) the development of an evaluation plan for a statewide initiative; 2) conduct of on-going technical assistance; and 3) use of evaluation results to inform and improve the project. Lessons at the FBO level include: 1) preparation for and submission of a request for funding; 2) development of SMART goals and objectives; and 3) conduct of project activity monitoring and evaluation at the local level.

Recommendations: Public health organizations must build the capacity of FBOs to conduct effective HIV prevention interventions. This session will provide useful insight into the implementation and evaluation of one statewide faith-based HIV prevention initiative.