Ripple effect: An evaluation tool for increasing connectedness through community health partnerships

Abstract

We used a community-based participatory approach to evaluate a multi-sectoral project called Hermosa Vida. Project partners and community researchers collaborated on the design and implementation of a Ripple Effect Tool (RET) to measure increased generative social and professional connectedness, and new project development in an emergent participatory project. Participatory methods drove evaluation of the development and intended documentation of emergent project goals. Findings of the RET suggest saliency in increased connectedness for project partners, participants, and communities, though benefits were tiered with maximum impact of connectedness occurring at leadership levels of programmatic involvement. In light of growing evidence that increased connectedness is directly related to health outcomes, the participatory development of a RET is useful for midcourse correction, ensuring ongoing commitments to participatory and engaged project goals, and measuring and prioritizing capacity building. Use of a locally developed RET could increase connectedness and partnerships among all project partners, reaching beyond layers of advantageous positioning within complex partnerships.