Evaluation of a Community-Based Program to Encourage Physical Activity and Healthy Eating among Latino Families

Based on a 2008 needs assessment, Latino community members identified support for parenting skills and nutrition and opportunities for family physical activity as high priorities. The University of North Carolina Asheville and the YWCA of Asheville collaborated to implement a culturally competent community-based program to address the nutritional and physical activity needs of Latino families in Buncombe County, NC. The primary objective was to improve the knowledge and adoption of habits leading to better nutrition and increased physical activity. The secondary objective was to evaluate the effectiveness and sustainability of an academic and community partnership in health promotion. An existing nutrition and physical activity curriculum for Latinos, Salsa, Salud y Sabor (SSS), was adapted for local families. In Summer 2010, families participated in eight SSS sessions held at the YWCA. In Fall 2010, summer participants decided on follow-up activities to be held in the community to support participant and program goals. Methods of evaluation included tools to measure behavior change, one-on-one interviews with adult participants, attendance records, and partnership self-evaluation. Nine families (26 participants) participated in our summer program (88% participation). Thirteen events were held in Fall (25% participation.) The interviews indicated positive knowledge gain and behavior change, and the important role of social support. Evaluation of the academic-community partnership indicated success. Program design with a regular time and location can result in greater attendance. Building trust between the program leaders and the Latino participants can contribute to program success. Program sustainability through an academic-community partnership needs further exploration.