Cancer Research Community Advocate Program
Overview
The Cancer Research Community Advocate Program (CRCAP) is a paid 10-month program designed to equip both investigators and community members with tools to enhance community engagement in research. To be effective partners in research, this program provides the knowledge and skills for the community fellows to meaningfully contribute to research.
After an initial training period, community advocates are embedded in research teams to provide consultation on a specific cancer research project. Advocates provide community expertise to the research team while continuing to build their own skills to be confident research partners.
How Community Fellows Enhance Research
Community advocates have various backgrounds, bringing valuable lived experiences that can enhance research. Community research advocates can:
- Consult to bring a community perspective to all areas of research
- Assist in designing materials such as survey questions, focus groups, data collection protocols, data interpretation, and recruitment strategies
- Disseminate research findings
- Collaborate with other community partners to identify research priorities
Benefits of Engaging as an Advocate
- Gain skills and tools related to community and research
- Gain hands-on experience working in research
- Play a role in making sure research positively impacts your community
Who Should Apply?
- You are at least 18 years old
- Can commit to up to 5 hours a week for a 10-month period
- Have an interest in your community and its overall health
Payment for the program will be distributed in installments, with full payment provided upon successful program completion.
For More Information
If you are a community member who would like to learn more about the Cancer Research Community Advocate Program (CRCAP) or if you are a researcher who is interested in hosting a Community Advocate, please email cancerinfo@uvahealth.org.