An Evaluation of a Community-Based Food and Nutrition Programming: FAN Leadership Institute Study

Objectives: The FAN program aims to equip participants with the knowledge, skills, and tools to lead effective community-based programs focused on food and nutrition. This study evaluates the impact of the food and nutrition program on participant knowledge, skills, and attitudes related to community-based programs and food and nutrition practices. Methods: This study's protocol was reviewed and approved by the Institutional Review Board of the Institute of Women and Ethnic Studies. We recruited fifteen Healthy Start programs. This study assesses the educational impact of monthly webinars on their community activities, leadership, and changes in nutrition knowledge. Data from interventions with pre- and post-webinar surveys were collected for analysis. Pre- and post-webinar surveys, including monthly reports from the sites, participation in community programs, or events changes, were analyzed to determine the significance of the change in nutrition knowledge and behaviors. Results: Most of the sites displayed increased knowledge levels, leadership behavior, and a number of local events after the education intervention was implemented. This program may effectively impact nutritional health behavior by promoting good nutrition, physical activity, and utilizing local nutritional resources. The webinars greatly impacted the improvement of knowledge and enhancement of nutritional educational events in their local areas. 86% of participants reported their participation in the webinar was an excellent means of education. 50% of the participants said improving their knowledge is a good experience. This program also further emphasizes the importance of the father's participation in nutrition and the health and wellness of families. Conclusions: Overall, the findings from this evaluation suggest that education training programs significantly improve nutrition knowledge in their local communities, including the participation of fathers and other extended family members in the activities. The insights gained from this evaluation could encourage other health-promoting organizations to develop similar leadership and capacity-building programs. Funding Sources: This material is based upon work supported by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, under agreement number NR233A750012C003.