Disseminating health promotion practices in after-school programs through YMCA learning collaboratives.
OBJECTIVE
We describe the perceived usefulness of a learning collaborative for translating obesity prevention science into practice at YMCA after-school programs.


METHODS
We conducted mixed-methods research to identify beneficial aspects of the collaborative and to assess perceived effect of the collaborative on ability to meet goals.


METHODS
Sixty-one YMCA after-school programs serving roughly 2500 children in 21 states.


METHODS
After-school program staff attending learning sessions for the collaborative.


METHODS
YMCA learning collaboratives comprise a structured organizational change process delivered during 9 to 12 months that aim to empower staff to find local methods for achieving specific program outcomes related to diet and physical activity.


METHODS
Eight focus groups conducted during the collaboratives assessed their usefulness. A post hoc Web-based follow-up survey (39 respondents; response rate, 40.6%) assessed final perceived effect.


RESULTS
Qualitative and quantitative data were highly positive about the usefulness of the collaborative. The collaboratives' duration, peer learning, multilevel staff involvement, focus on creating a supportive organization, and regular coaching support enabled many respondents to make program and policy changes consistent with project goals. There was consensus that executive-level commitment to the work was critical.


CONCLUSIONS
Learning collaboratives are a promising tool for embedding health promotion practices in existing after-school programs through a structured organizational change process.
Wiecha
Jean L
JL
Department of Society, Human Development, and Health, Harvard School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA. jean.wiecha@umb.edu
Nelson
Toben F
TF
Roth
Barbara A
BA
Glashagel
Jerry
J
Vaughan
Lynne
L
D002648:Child; D003159:Community-Institutional Relations; D006293:Health Promotion / Q000379:methods / Q000458:organization & administration*; D006801:Humans; D009765:Obesity / Q000517:prevention & control; D012572:School Health Services / Q000458:organization & administration*; D013192:Staff Development / Q000379:methods; D014481:United States