Fondo yoplait para la mujer hispana initiative: A cross-sector collaboration with susan g. komen to advance health equity in Latino communities

For more than 21 years, Yoplait has been committed to women's wellness – breast cancer, heart health, osteoporosis prevention, and fitness. As such, Yoplait is Susan G. Komen's longest running food partner. In 2011, Komen and Yoplait collaborated to educate and engage Hispanic communities through a special program - Fondo Yoplait para la Mujer Hispana. Komen Affiliates were awarded funding to develop programs that engaged new Hispanic leaders and Hispanic-serving organizations in key Affiliate activities; improved knowledge, attitudes, and beliefs about breast cancer among community leaders and program participants; and worked collaboratively with Hispanic leaders and organizations to address the communities' needs. The programs were implemented in six key US cities: Birmingham, AL; Boston, MA; Denver, CO; Raleigh, NC; San Diego, CA; and Seattle, WA. The one-year pilot programs utilized collaborative models with Hispanic-serving organizations, businesses and media as well as strengthened the ongoing work of promotoras in underserved communities. The results of the projects were 1) increased knowledge of the unique needs of the Latino community; 2) development of more effective strategies to increase early detection; and 3) increased knowledge of breast health awareness leading to increased screening. As Komen continues to leverage partnerships with for-profit entities, the collaborative approach of Fondo Yoplait will be adapted and replicated in partnership with other entities that join the fight and our mission to end breast cancer. In doing so, Komen seeks to also influence changes in inclusion and business practices that can improve the health and engagement of Latinos.