Key partners: UCEDD and Department of Health (Office of Faith-based Outreach)

The UCEDD in Arkansas (lead agency for the NWD System) partnered with the Arkansas Department of Health’s Office of Faith-based Outreach to promote vaccine clinics including the booster shot at places of worship throughout the state. The UCEDD participated in canvasing training delivered by the Office of Faith-based Outreach and helped distribute flyers about the events to providers serving people with developmental disabilities as well as AAAs. In addition to advertising the clinics, the UCEDD also followed up with phone calls to specific providers serving populations in need of vaccines. The UCEDD also worked with local pharmacies, emergency medical crews and the department of health to connect people with in-home vaccinations. The in-home vaccination teams used extra doses to also vaccinate neighbors, friends, caregivers and family. These two strategies have worked well in a rural area where places of worship and local connections have a big impact. Check to see if your state/territory has a faith-based office within the department of health.