What is Community Based Participatory Research and Evaluation (CBPRE)?

CBPRE is a collaborative research model that brings together a diverse team of experts, including community members, academic researchers, and organizational partners. These teams share a mutual interest in a specific topic, geographic area, and/or community. The team is dedicated to work together to address issues that are both relevant and beneficial to the community involved.

Core Principles of CBRPE:

• Equitable Partnerships: All partners have an equal voice and share responsibility in the research process, ensuring that community perspectives are valued alongside academic and organizational expertise.
• Co-Learning: The approach emphasizes mutual learning, where all participants benefit from each other’s knowledge and experiences.
• Capacity Building: CBPRE focuses on enhancing the skills and capabilities of community members, empowering them to actively participate in research, evaluation, and action.
• Action-Oriented: The ultimate goal is to use research findings to drive positive changes that improve community health, wellbeing, and resiliency.

Why CBPRE Matters for Rural Communities

Rural communities often face unique health challenges and resource limitations. CBPRE provides a meaningful way to address these issues by ensuring that the research agenda is shaped by those who are most affected. By fostering partnerships and leveraging local knowledge, CBPRE helps build stronger, resilient communities that are better equipped to improve their own health and wellness.

Commitment to serve on the CBPRE Team:

1-hour long meetings are held once a month through a virtual platform (Teams, Zoom, etc.) to allow participation without traveling. In between meetings members may be asked to review data, reports, and or other findings and provide input. For those members interested in writing or presenting, there may be opportunities to participate in this side of the work.