We Can Stop STDs Los Angeles, a Cross-Sector Community Engagement Approach to Reducing STIs

Background: In 2012, a cross-section of community stakeholders led by the Los Angeles (LA) County Department of Public Health Division of HIV/STD Programs and the office of LA County Supervisor Mark Ridley-Thomas, convened to address the epidemic of high STI rates and numbers affecting youth 12-25 years-old in South LA. Historically, various inequities, including health, have plagued this community. WeCanStopSTDsLA, an inclusive community engagement process guided by the Community Advisory Coalition (CAC), was created and has evolved into a vibrant movement. Youth and young adults in South LA living healthy lifestyles in a thriving and supportive community is WeCanStopSTDsLA’s vision. 

Methods: Participants representing a range of sectors - including government, CBOs, and Faith communities – strategize and integrate actions across the CAC's seven working groups (Interfaith, Youth and Young Adults, Prevention and Treatment Services, Systems Change, Strategic Communications, Data and Evaluation and Logistics and Operations). A ‘Changing Systems/Practices/Culture’ rubric is used to impact each level of the Socio-Ecological Model and theory of change. The stategic plan includes shared values; a logic model; annual workplans; and communications and evaluation plans. Emphasis is placed on standing for justice, compassion, prevention, treatment, and open communication, as well as standing against bias and shaming. Backbone support is provided by Coachman Moore & Associates consulting firm. Methods used to assess impact include developmental evaluation, Community Based Action Research, and tools to assess participation of providers and youth/young adults.

Results: Results include: (a) sustaining and branding the movement, (b) piloting a Pocket Guide to Sexual and Reproductive Health Services specific to South LA (c) successful strategic partnerships and (d) community involvement/engagement.

Conclusions: WeCanStopSTDsLA/CAC continues to leverage the talent and resources of members and partners who embody the spirit and call to action that brought them together. Such a process has relevence for other communities across the country.