Updates.Check back as we post new information about upcoming events and what we've learned so far!
|
|
|
The POWER Project has been making progress through Phase 1, which consists of 4 research studies. Initial surveys and Focus Groups have been completed in all 12 of the communities in the project, and Photovoice has been completed in 11 and is ongoing in the 12th. Plans for Photovoice Events are in the works, and a second round of surveys will occur once those events are completed. Environmental Scans are also underway with 5 completed to date. The remaining environmental scans will be completed in the next few weeks.
The Housing Collaborative Community Advisory Board continues to be an invaluable part of the POWER Project, providing feedback throughout every step of the process. We would also like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to all residents who have participated in this phase of the project. To date, 219 residents have participated in formative phase activities! We’re so grateful for their partnership and can’t wait to see what we’re able to create together for the next phase of the project. We would also like to thank our amazing partners at the Richmond, Petersburg, Newport News, Norfolk, and Portsmouth Housing Authorities and the VDH Richmond Community Health Workers at each of the Richmond Communities. This project would not be possible without their collaboration. On Saturday March 21, members of our POWER team attended the 2026 Closing the Gap Summit focused on cancer risk reduction. Researchers from VCU and ODU taught us about changes to nutrition and physical activity that can reduce cancer risk. Community member testimonials made things personal and helped us understand how these changes were relevant throughout their cancer experience. Small group discussions brought together community members, researchers, community organizations, and cancer care providers to brainstorm ideas for programs and resources that can help people across Virginia reduce their cancer risk.  Our Community Lead, Janet Plent (left), participated on a panel with fellow HCCAB members to discuss her experience with cancer screening and cancer risk reduction. The panel was moderated by one of our Research Assistants, Katie Jones (not pictured), who also co-chaired the Closing the Gap Planning Committee.  One of our Co-Investigators, Autumn Lanoye, gave a presentation on how to build habits that you can start today. Small changes add up over time!  Chef Steve from our Community Partner organization Underground Kitchen - Community First gave us a live demo of how to make black eyed pea hummus and smoky three-bean salsa – which all attendees got to sample. YUM!  Our Academic Lead, Jessica LaRose, wrapped up the day with closing remarks and a HUGE thank you to everyone who helped to make this day a success.
 The POWER team got together at Old Dominion University in Norfolk, VA for a day-long training kickoff. We talked about key values that will guide our activities: respect, partnership, trust, communication, and accountability. We also reviewed the overall goals of the research project and finalized our plan for inviting community members to participate in Phase I studies. Training will continue over the next several weeks as we begin introducing ourselves to 12 income-based housing communities across Virginia!
 Our next Closing the Gap Summit will be held on March 21, 2026. This free event will focus on ways to lower cancer risk and empower your community with tools for prevention. Check out our website here for more details and to register!
Closing the Gap is a special series addressing top cancer priorities designed to bring together Massey and VHS researchers, clinicians, and community members for collaborative solutions.
|
