Problem/Objective: Previous research studies have affirmed the valuable role that cultural competency plays in improving health care quality and access for diverse populations. Further, federal guidelines and standards identify the necessary indicators for achieving competency. However, very limited published guidance is available for community based programs on how to integrate culturally sensitive approaches into their efforts to develop tobacco control interventions for underserved populations, or “priority populations.”

Methods: Working with an external contractor, the American Legacy Foundation evaluated 68 Priority Populations grantees to examine their perspectives on how to approach cultural competency for diverse populations. Data sources included progress reports and transcripts from in-depth case studies.

Results: Legacy's objective was to provide resources to develop culturally competent tobacco control programming at the grassroots level and to identify elements of promising model programs. Certain approaches were common across the Priority Populations initiative and practiced among at least 80% of grantees, including:

1.Engaging community participation and involvement; seeking to develop partnership with other local providers;

2.Actively planning population-specific cultural tailoring activities;

3.Developing a model program with potential for replication and evaluation;

4.Developing a plan for sustainability and dissemination.

Conclusions: The presentation will cover specific activities related to these approaches, common elements, and ways to incorporate these into a review process. Legacy's support afforded the opportunity for grassroots programs to cultivate tailored interventions.