National Health Outreach and Engagement Conference 2024

Tamimi, S, Voiles, S, Asemah, B, Clark, L.
THRIVE is an initiative of the UT Extension Family and Consumer Sciences department
funded through the Tennessee Department of Health in response to dropping immunization
rates. Factors like the spread of misinformation, plus after-effects of the COVID-19, and
reduced access combined to create an environment where confusion and mistrust are rampant.
THRIVE utilizes health messaging best practices to provide Tennesseeans with accurate,
evidence-based information regarding routine and other immunizations so that people can feel
empowered to make the best decisions for themselves and their families. Through a
multifaceted approach including a targeted social media campaign, a youth healthy lifestyle
curriculum and adult education, THRIVE develops relationships and provides resources to
correct misinformation and increase access to immunizations through local partnerships and the
pre-existing Extension network.

Sixteen grant-funded, program assistants work alongside the county FCS agents to reach a wide
audience by implementing vaccine education in already existing UT Extension programming
like Chair Yoga, Walk with Ease, Parenting classes, 4-H events, nutrition classes, or other
community health classes or wellness events. By normalizing vaccines as part of a standard
preventative healthcare routine in addition to physical activity, nutrition and regularly scheduled
checkups, program assistants have been able to reach more residents with less resistance. PAs
address barriers to access by utilizing new and existing partnerships to organize mobile
immunization and health events for underserved audiences. This program utilizes a unique
approach to help residents question health misinformation and feel confident about making
important health decisions for themselves and their families.