Abstract
Little attention has been given to the processes and dynamics involved in community-engaged research with hard-to-reach and marginalized communities. This concept paper focuses on experiences with and lessons learned from the developmental phase of a community-engaged research project aimed at promoting the economic self-sufficiency of refugees with disabilities in Illinois. Steps taken to foster collaboration between academic researchers and community stakeholders are described, followed by the authors’ commentary on challenges encountered and how these were addressed. Several methods were used to facilitate engagement of community stakeholders. In the pre-funding stage, lead researchers identified potential community partners by networking with coalition groups and task forces focused on disability- and refugee-related issues. In the post-funding stage, relationships with partners were formalized, partners’ roles were defined, and contractual agreements were developed. An advisory board consisting of representatives from partner agencies and self-advocates with disabilities was also assembled to help guide the project goals and deliverables. Structured group and one-on-one meetings were held to sustain community partner engagement. These community engagement strategies were deemed successful. However, challenges did emerge due to conflict between community stakeholders’ preferences, and research logistics and regulatory requirements of the academic institution. Findings suggest that with careful planning, barriers to community-academic collaborations can be addressed in ways that benefit all parties. This paper offers practical strategies and a roadmap for other community-engaged research projects focusing on vulnerable and marginalized groups.
Highlights
By the end of 2016, a record number of more than 65 million people around the world were forcibly displaced from their homes and communities due to war or persecution [1]
We describe and reflect on the developmental phase of a community-engaged research project known as Partners of Refugees in Illinois Disability Employment (PRIDE)
We found that few working-age refugees with disabilities had participated in disability-focused employment support services and programs available through the state Division of Rehabilitation Services [13]; most were unaware that work was a viable option for people with disabilities in the United States (US)
Summary
By the end of 2016, a record number of more than 65 million people around the world were forcibly displaced from their homes and communities due to war or persecution [1] These numbers included 20 million refugees and asylum seekers compelled to leave their countries of origin in search of stability and security elsewhere [1]. In fiscal year 2016 [3] These numbers declined in 2017 due to political backlash, a steady flow of refugees and asylum seekers continues into North America and Western Europe [4]. We describe and reflect on the developmental phase of a community-engaged research project known as Partners of Refugees in Illinois Disability Employment (PRIDE). The objectives of this paper are to: (1) describe the context of the project; (2) discuss the project’s roots in community-engaged research and summarize unique aspects of PRIDE’s community-academic partnerships; (3) share development activities and strategies for community stakeholder engagement; and (4) reflect on the challenges of conducting community-engaged research with a large number of multi-sector partners and marginalized refugee communities
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
