Key Partners: ADRCs, Areas Agencies on Aging, Centers for Independent Living, State Unit on Aging, Assistive Technology Program, University Centers for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities, State Council on Developmental Disabilities, and the State Departments of Public Health, Behavioral Health & Developmental Disabilities, and Community Health

Description: The Georgia NWD System has engaged in a multi-agency, statewide collaborative approach to promote vaccine confidence, access, and equity. Some of the key partners in the group are mentioned above. The group 1) advertises the same contact numbers established by the GA Department of Public Health, 2) identifies barriers to access and equity across the state and populations served, 3) strategizes how best to reach racial/ethnic minorities and underserved populations, and 4) shares digital and print materials using one brand – Georgia Gets It. (The team started with 4 brand suggestions and narrowed down to the 2 above. Georgia Gets It has been selected.)  

The collaborative meets monthly and has contracted with the Georgia Health Policy Center (GHPC) at Georgia State University to facilitate meetings, conduct background research, and lead the development of marketing and outreach efforts with a contracted communications firm. GHPC has engaged in assisting partners with clear, practical information and resources, assessing and responding to partner needs, and facilitating meaningful, strategic conversations. In addition, the project team includes the Georgia Tech Center for Inclusive Design and Innovation (CIDI) to provide training and technical assistance on accessibility best practices. CIDI has created accessible COVID-19 resources available here. A host of resources and materials are currently in development and will be available for sharing by all partners. The partnerships formed through this process will outlive the pandemic and serve as a solid foundation as the state continues to grow its’ NWD System.