Community Engagement and Research

Empowering Local Solutions for Health

The Community Engagement and Research Core connects community, clinical, and academic partners in community-engaged research to address priority health needs and improve health outcomes in Kentucky and Appalachia. 

Perry Co. students walking at the Healthy Mile Inauguration, 2019
Community Seed Grant Recipient Uses Personal Health Journey to Motivate Others in Diabetes Prevention
Mary Beth Castle leads a Fall into Fitness diabetes education and prevention event in Johnson County, Ky.

After retiring as a teacher and learning she was pre-diabetic at age 57, Mary Beth Castle lost 81 pounds and began a new career as a Community Health Educator in Johnson County, Kentucky. A Community Seed Grant from the CCTS allowed her to continue and grow the "Fall into Fitness" diabetes education and prevention outreach events, where participants get their A1C levels checked and take a self-paced walk together. Anyone who is pre-diabetic gets a personal phone call from Mary Beth, inviting them to participate in a free, CDC-recognized diabetes prevention program.

CLIK Participant’s Report on Eastern Kentucky Water Affordability Crisis Receives National Attention
The Curs Crum Reservoir in Martin County, Ky., on Oct. 2, 2018.

 

Martin County has been experiencing a water crisis for decades, with the 8th highest cost of water in the state. A participant of the CCTS Community Leadership Institute of Kentucky co-authored a report how residents, many of whom can’t afford their water bills, are impacted.  

Making a Difference

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Participants in the Community Leadership Institute of Kentucky

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ROI on Appalachian Translational Research Network Grants

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Appalachian Counties Impacted by the Community Leadership Institute of Kentucky

Community Engagement News