Background: The changing demographics, shown by the significant increase in Utah's diversity index from 33.6% to 40.7% over the past decade, highlight social and public health disparities and the pressing need for culturally appropriate programming. Utah State University (USU) Extension, which currently addresses comprehensive community resources and professional development, is supported by their cultural belonging (CUBE) program. This model effectively connects with diverse communities and meets their needs, supporting innovative community engagement and tangible results.
Methods: The CUBE model integrates Community Health Workers (CHWs) and their cultural skills to build community trust through referrals and tailored outreach. It emphasizes cultural humility, competency, linguistic adaptation, diversity training, partnerships, and inclusive access. CHWs bridge gaps between resources and diverse populations by representing their communities and promoting inclusive access to extension programs.
Results: Over five months, 150 families engaged in Rural Latinx culturally adapted outreach. Additionally, 58 CHWs completed a nutrition program targeting low-income families. Ten CHW State Certificate completers were referred, resulting in the hiring of four CHWs as community experts. Consequently, 300 community members from diverse communities became acquainted with USU Extension programs
Conclusion: CUBE has effectively implemented innovative approaches within extension settings, leading to significant outcomes. CHWs have engaged with underserved communities, connecting individuals to various resources. This highlights their proactive role in diverse settings and community education. Their focus on cultural competency and humility, along with CHWs' representation of their own cultures, has built trust and promoted community connections.

Authors:
Mariajose Velasco Burgos, Utah State University, United States
Ryan Benally, Utah State University, United States
Ivette Lopez, University of Utah, United States
Heidi LeBlanc, Utah State University, United States
Oreta Tupola, Utah Community Health Workers Association (UCHWA), United States

About the Presenter(s)
Maria José Velasco Burgos, from Manta, Ecuador, is an Assistant Professor at Utah State University (USU) Extension Cultural Belonging Director and CBH co-director

See this presentation on the full schedule – Thursday Schedule

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