Development of Investigators Supporting Community Outreach and Value of Engagement in health disparities Research (DISCOVER)

Modified Abstract Section ABSTRACT The DISCOVER program will support and sustain early career investigators who conduct research for Washington, DC residents related to differential health outcomes in cancer, stroke, and maternal health. The Community Engagement and Dissemination Core (CEDC) is responsible for outreach, engagement, communication, and dissemination of results for Georgetown’s P50 Center for Excellence. The CEDC will facilitate investigators’ efforts to build sustainable, meaningful, and collaborative relationships with DC community members. In collaboration with the Community Advisory Board and Investigator Development Core, the CEDC will design work with early career investigators to engage with members of the Washington DC community, share results and, ultimately, strive to implement results from research into sustainable change. Community engagement requires investigators to learn how to create sustainable partnerships, identify and approach community partners, create shared research agendas and budgets, and design relevant outreach materials. The CECD will develop and implement methods and structures for investigators to engage with community members. This will include overseeing the engagement of community members in DISCOVER’s activities such as community members’ participation in a launch meeting and “Idea Lab” sessions where investigators brainstorm ideas. The CEDC will partner with DC based organizations focused on cancer, stroke, and maternal health. Community meetings will be structured to optimize collaboration and maximize dialogue. The CEDC will also lead community-based rotations for early career investigators to gain experience in community engagement. Finally, the CEDC will be responsible for providing recommendations and best practices for dissemination of information from DISCOVER research to the community across multiple levels, including: overseeing and supporting investigators to hold community grand rounds, distributing newsletters to relevant community partners, and sharing outcomes of health research with other DC stakeholders. The CEDC will enrich not only the experiences of early career investigators, but also the health and well-being of DC residents who experience health concerns related to cancer, stroke, or maternal health.