Understanding the Facilitator Role in a Latino Sexual Risk Reduction Program in Eastern North Carolina

Abstract

North Carolina is a region of the country in need of sexual risk reduction (SRR) programs for Latino adolescents. In 2013, ¡Cuídate!, an evidence-based SRR program, was tested with Mexican and Central American youth in eastern NC. The program was implemented in the school-based health center of a middle school and a high school. The purpose of this qualitative descriptive study was to understand the role of the community facilitator in delivering Cuidate!. Interviews were conducted with three community facilitators two years post-program intervention. Content analysis was used and a consensus was reached among three research team members. We identified four areas for future program implementation. The first, program sustainability, indicated the important role of the school and staff, and the cultural relevance of the program. The second, programimprovements, included bringing in parents and community partners, more time for specific activities, follow-up with students, and on-going facilitator mentoring. The third, training activities, included training in classroom management, cultural knowledge, and adolescent development. The fourth area, facilitator qualifications, included creating a non-judgmental atmosphere through familiarity and trust, and comfort with sexual health and culture. Results emphasize the importance of the role of the facilitator in successful program implementation.