| Abstract: | ABSTRACT The purpose of this program was to create an inter-generational, faith-based health and wellness program for kinship caregivers and their families (i.e., grandparents and other relatives who are raising children andtheir children's children). The program took place over a 12-week period in a faith-based setting and focused on education in (a) Health, Exercise, Nutrition and Stress Management; (b) Parenting Education; and (c) Religious Practices (such as worship, scripture, and prayer). Each week's session included lunch, which modeled a healthy, easy to prepare, and cost-effective meal. Both quantitative and qualitative measurement techniques were employed. The number of participants completing both pre-and post-tests was small and therefore not valid for statistical tests of significance. Nonetheless, the quantitative findings of the scales viewed in combination with the qualitative findings of the focus groups, participant observation and interviews provide some helpful indicators of the program's outcomes and effectiveness. Participants in the health and wellness program reported that they became more aware of resources in the community, used nutritional information provided, noticed positive changes in the home, felt a feeling of connectedness with others in the program, used new stress management techniques, gained a greater understanding of their grandchildren and appreciated the social support the program provided. The experience of providing a faith-based intergenerational health and wellness program was rewarding for caregivers, children and staff. |
