Disseminating health promotion practices in after-school programs through YMCA learning collaboratives.

PURPOSE

We describe the perceived usefulness of a learning collaborative for translating obesity prevention science into practice at YMCA after-school programs.

APPROACH

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.

SETTING

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

PARTICIPANTS

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

INTERVENTION

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.

RESEARCH METHOD

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.

CONCLUSION

Learning collaboratives are a promising tool for embedding health promotion practices in existing after-school programs through a structured organizational change process.