What is ACRE?

As part of the Center for Public Health Practice (CPHP), ACRE is dedicated to conducting, coordinating and supporting applied community research and evaluation to further the mission of CPHP and its community partners.

What do we do?

ACRE conducts, coordinates and supports applied community research and evaluation through four channels:

• Community-driven collaborative research
• CPHP-initiated research that supports its mission particularly in the area of practice issues related to multicultural health and health disparities
• Evaluation for CPHP initiatives
• Technical assistance, support and resources to meet the needs of our public health community partners

What is our approach?

ACRE emphasizes research and evaluation that utilizes participatory and empowerment approaches and models as well as more traditional research practices. We value and prioritize the dissemination and utilization of research and evaluation findings, focusing on the connection between research and positive change. We create opportunities and mentoring for MPH and DrPH students’ involvement in real-life community research and evaluation practice, and by doing so we support our community partners in their community health improvement efforts. When possible, we collaborate with the School of Public Health faculty and other centers on applied community research and evaluation projects.

What is our primary focus?

ACRE prioritizes applied community research and evaluation initiatives that address multicultural health and health disparities. Specific areas of focus include cultural and linguistic competency, pipeline programs and diversity in the health professions, place-based intervention research and HIV disparities research.