Customizing Wellness Tools for Culturally Diverse Communities Series guides community organizers and professionals in modifying wellness tools and evidence-based practices (EBPs) to enhance cultural competence. Addressing social factors such as poverty, racism, and discrimination, this collection emphasizes the importance of cultural considerations in implementing EBPs effectively. 

The series is composed of a fact sheet and webinar. 

Fact Sheet 

  • Modifying Evidence-Based Practices to Increase Cultural Competence: This fact sheet provides guidelines for community organizers and professionals to ensure that EBPs meet the needs of the communities they serve. Cultural and social factors significantly impact an individual’s well-being and must be considered when implementing EBPs.

EBPs are not one-size-fits-all and may need to be adapted for different cultural groups. SAMHSA’s National Registry of Evidence-based Programs and Practices catalogs a comprehensive list of EBPs for consideration. Key cultural factors to consider include views and understanding of mental illness, family relationships and values, and worldview. Additionally, finances, resources, and other local organizations may influence how the EBP is modified and implemented. 

Webinar 

  • Customizing Wellness Tools for the Cultures in Your Community: This webinar convenes a panel of nationally recognized experts who share strategies and experiences in modifying wellness tools and EBPs. The panel includes Deborah Altschul, associate professor at the University of New Mexico; Poka Laenui, former executive director of Wai’anae Coast Community Mental Health Center; and Alan Rabideau, a trainer and technical assistance provider for mental health initiatives. The experts discuss their experiences with implementing EBPs and the necessary steps to ensure cultural appropriateness. 

Before implementing new policies or procedures, organizers must consider which EBPs are culturally appropriate for their communities. People of different backgrounds face unique challenges and may respond differently to mental health, trauma, and substance use disorders. Providers must consider the community they serve, their culture, and their culturally informed responses to address their needs effectively. Culturally appropriate adjustments to EBPs are crucial for their success in diverse communities. 

Citation 

Program to Achieve Wellness. (Producer). (2017). Customizing wellness tools for culturally diverse communities series. https://www.prainc.com/resource-library/ 

This resource was first shared in 2017. 

(PDF, 160 KB; Presentation, YouTube)