Using Community Involvement Strategies in the Fight against Infant Mortality: Lessons from a Multisite Study of the National Healthy Start Experience

Abstract

This article presents the findings of a multisite qualitative study of the community involvement experience of nine Healthy Start sites in their efforts to reduce infant mortality. Empowerment theory was used as a broad theoretical framework, and in-depth interviews, focus groups, observation, and documents review were the primary data collection methods utilized. Six key ways in which community involvement was found to enrich the program are described. These ranged from creating the conditions in which individuals could improve their parenting skills to mobilizing communities to help change programs, practices, and policies. Lessons learned for this program and for other initiatives aimed at eliminating health disparities are discussed.