Faculty in the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee’s Sustainable Peacebuilding program have been awarded a $50,000 Seed Grant from the Advancing a Healthier Wisconsin Endowment (AHW). This funding will support a 12-month project starting in January 2025 titled, “Health Videos as a Culturally Sound Approach to Integration Among Refugee and Immigrant Populations.”
The project, led by UWM team members Dr. Lynne Woehrle (Primary Investigator), Dr. Julia Snethen (Research Team), and Anastassia White (Project Manager), aims to develop innovative and accessible strategies to promote health equity among refugee and immigrant communities across Wisconsin. Through culturally tailored health videos, the initiative seeks to bridge gaps in healthcare access and knowledge, fostering improved integration and well-being within these populations.
This collaborative effort involves key partnerships with Catholic Charities-Milwaukee, Refugee and Immigration Services (CCRIS) and the Medical College of Wisconsin (MCW). Together, the organizations will leverage their expertise to design and disseminate tools that meet the unique needs of newcomer communities.
The AHW Seed Grant is one of 66 health improvement awards distributed this year, totaling $3.9 million. These grants are designed to advance community health, workforce development, and health-focused research across Wisconsin.
“Health equity is a critical issue in Wisconsin and this project will expand our understanding of how community-driven innovative interventions using everyday media tools can impact gaps in health knowledge and health care access among vulnerable populations,” said Dr. Lynne Woehrle, Primary Investigator of this project and Sustainable Peacebuilding Program Director.
As UWM continues to advance health equity initiatives, this project reflects the university’s dedication to fostering community innovation and sustainable solutions for underserved communities.