190: Faith and Evaluation: Engaging Catholic Faith-Based Communities in Shared Leadership to Promote Physical Activity in East Los Angeles

Background: This session will share lessons learned from a collaborative evaluation of a physical activity initiative implemented within catholic faith based churches in East Los Angeles. Rooted in the principles of community engagement and shared leadership, the program aimed to foster healthier lifestyles through culturally resonant, spiritually grounded approaches to movement and wellness.

Methods: Using a community based participatory approach evaluators partnered with catholic congregational leaders, academic leaders, park authorities and members of the community to co-create program goals, metrics, and implementation strategies. Findings: The evaluation highlights how shared leadership—empowering lay leaders, clergy, and health community leaders and local government leaders—enhanced program relevance, participation, and sustainability. Results showed increased in the literacy about physical activity among participants and illuminates the role of trust, spiritual motivation, and culturally responsive practices in sustaining engagement.