Evaluation findings from the Institute for Public Health and Faith Collaborations

OBJECTIVE: The Institute for Public Health and Faith Collaborations sought to cultivate boundary leadership to strengthen collaboration across religious and health sectors to address health disparities. This article presents findings from an evaluation of the Institute and its impact on participating teams of faith and public health leaders. METHODS:. Self-administered surveys were completed by participating team members (n = 243) immediately post-Institute. Semistructured telephone interviews were conducted with at least one health and one faith leader per team six to eight months after the Institute. RESULTS: Significant self-reported improvement occurred for all short-term outcomes assessed, with the largest increases in describing organizational frames and why they are important for community change, and understanding the role of boundary leaders in community systems change. Six months after the Institute, participants spoke of inspiration, team building, and understanding their own leadership strengths as important outcomes. Leadership growth centered on functioning in groups, making a change in their work, a renewed faith in self, and a renewed focus on applying themselves to faith/health work. Top team accomplishments included planning or implementing a program or event, or solidifying or sustaining a collaborative structure. The majority felt they were moving in the right direction to reduce health disparities, but had not yet made an impact. CONCLUSIONS: Results suggest the Institute played a role in helping to align faith and health assets in many of the participating teams.