Document Type
Report
Publication Date
Fall 8-25-2025
Abstract
The Earth Care Trusted Messengers Vaccine Access Project was a two-month intervention implemented in Santa Fe, New Mexico in spring 2025 to address persistent barriers to COVID-19 and routine vaccine access among Spanish-speaking communities. Using a peer-to-peer “Trusted Messenger” model, respected community members received training in vaccine knowledge, communication strategies, and community organizing before hosting small house meetings to share accurate information, address concerns, and build trust.
A mixed-methods evaluation included pre/post/follow-up surveys, weekly house meeting questionnaires, and a final focus group. Quantitative results demonstrated substantial increases in participants’ confidence across all domains, including vaccine knowledge, communication skills, and ability to address misinformation, with most improvements sustained at follow-up. Over the two-month period, 23 house meetings were conducted, reaching nearly 300 participants. Qualitative data highlighted the role of cultural humility, food and incentives, and team-based facilitation in fostering engagement, while also identifying challenges such as compressed training schedules, limited material supports, and logistical barriers.
Findings indicate that the Trusted Messenger model is both feasible and effective in increasing vaccine confidence, clarifying misinformation, and strengthening community networks among Spanish-speaking residents. Sustaining this approach will require modest but consistent investments in training, resources, and support for messenger cohorts. The model shows promise not only for vaccine promotion but also for broader health equity efforts that rely on community-led, culturally grounded strategies.
Recommended Citation
Velarde, Camille and Theresa H. Cruz. "Earth Care Trusted Messengers Vaccine Access Project." (2025). https://digitalrepository.unm.edu/prc-reports-documents/71
Included in
Community Health and Preventive Medicine Commons, COVID-19 Commons, Influenza Virus Vaccines Commons, Public Health Education and Promotion Commons