Leveraging the power of future generations: The youth ambassadors reaching out (YARO) program

Background: The Tampa Bay Community Cancer Network (TBCCN) is a community-academic partnership that aims to reduce cancer disparities among medically underserved populations within the Tampa Bay area. Since the inception of TBCCN in 2005, community partners have worked collaboratively to design educational programs; including Youth Ambassadors Reaching Out (YARO), a student led educational program for youth residing in medically underserved areas. YARO encourages middle and high school students to serve as health ambassadors in their communities by providing education about cancer prevention, health disparities, and careers in science and health. Purpose: This presentation provides evaluation data from the YARO program while highlighting its design and implementation. Methods: In 2012, TBCCN commenced its YARO Program with a cohort of 14 middle school students. Novel approaches in the design of the curriculum included the formation of a youth advisory board in order to ensure that the content was appealing and relevant to the needs of the participants. In addition to the youth advisory board, community partners provided insight on the content of the curriculum. Program delivery included interactive sessions such as a tour of Moffitt Cancer Center, a career forum, and a health disparities PhotoVoice project. Results: An increase in knowledge about health disparities, careers in science and health and healthy lifestyle practices were captured through pre and post test assessments administered during the program. Conclusion: Evaluation data illustrate YARO's success. Satisfaction results indicate that the unique approach to program delivery and design kept participants engaged and interested in the topics addressed.