• Responsiveness to Community Priorities and Perspectives

Community-Based Participatory Research strategies address the health needs, interests, and priorities established by the community. Health is addressed from both individual and broader l perspectives (i.e. considering social, economic, cultural, and policy contexts).

• Long-Term Engagement

Research investigators establish, build upon, and maintain community partnerships. The depth of the research partnerships and collaborations which develop over time enhance community health impact.

• Mutual Respect

Researchers and community members work together with humility, candor, and mutual respect for expertise, priorities, and cultural differences.

• Mutual Benefit

Increased knowledge improves the health of the community and benefits both the community and the researchers/URMC but are directed and pursued at a pace by the community organization/members.

• Enhanced Community Capacity

Members of the “planned community” for the research project are hired and trained to help build and enhance community assets, where possible and appropriate. At minimum, input is obtained and compensated i.e. in focus groups, community advisory councils, or interviews. “Nothing about us without us” is the approach.

• Shared Responsibility

All research partners (URMC and Community Members) have obligations towards both the project and the community which is mutually negotiated in advance and at regular agree-upon intervals (such as quarterly).

• Evidence-Based

The best available evidence guides research-based interventions and relationships between URMC and the community. Best efforts are made to share evidence and evaluate each project accordingly.

• Shared Findings and Ownership

Research findings are shared with community partners and stakeholders. Presentations and publications are shared with community collaborators for input and are co-authors or at minimum, acknowledged. Funding includes conference attendance.

• Collaborative from Start to Finish

There is collaborative and equitable engagement of all partners in all key phases of the research, including:

• Identification of Population of Focus
• Research Objectives
• Project Organization
• Interpretation of Data