An innovative participatory model reciprocally builds capacity among four urban native American communities and local HIV clinical research sites

As biomedical HIV prevention and treatment options continue to progress, it is imperative that relationships are bridged among HIV clinical researchers and those most impacted by the epidemic. Native American Engagement in HIV Clinical Research (NAEHCR) is an innovative and collaborative project between the Office of HIV/AIDS Network Coordination's Legacy Project and the National Native American AIDS Prevention Center. NAEHCR seeks to increase awareness and involvement in HIV clinical research among urban Native communities by implementing a specific model of community engagement that establishes and/or enhances relationships among community members and HIV clinical research staff. This model employs a Participatory Action Research approach that includes the following components: elicitation of buy-in from community and research site stakeholders; formative research on knowledge and attitudes on health, systems of care, HIV and clinical research; reciprocal education opportunities offered to research staff and Native community members; active participation by a body of Native American subject matter experts vested in the project; creation of forums for active and honest communication; creation of sustainable engagement plans; and the development of educational resource materials (e.g., brochure, poster). The model was implemented in 2011 in Denver and Seattle; San Francisco and Chicago were added as additional sites in 2012. Findings from formative research demonstrate a dearth of communication around HIV compared to other health issues, yet high interest in HIV-related activities. Process evaluation shows engagement approaches must support broader community well-being as well as individual, and that resources must be placed to create and sustain meaningful partnerships.