| Description: | This report presents the findings of an initiative to increase emergency preparedness in low-income Latino communities through health promoters from the local community. Following a literature review and eight focus group discussions, experienced Vías health promoters were trained, using a curriculum based on the findings of the formative research and highlighting the key messages and materials of the Advanced Practice Center. Over a two-month period, teams of three Vías promoters conducted two pilot interventions at two collaborating community agencies that serve Latinos. At each site, the promoters held three educational sessions addressing “what is an emergency” and the three steps of emergency preparedness (initiate a conversation about emergencies; develop a family emergency plan; and prepare an emergency supply kit of nine essential items). Pre- and post-tests assessed the effects of the intervention on participants’ attitudes and practices and on the effectiveness of the promoter training. These data were complemented by participants’ comments on the sessions and promoters’ written reports and observations made during project meetings. Results suggest that the promoter-led community education sessions on emergency preparedness were remarkably effective in increasing the Latino community’s readiness for emergencies. |