Of Delaware’s three counties, Kent County ranks last in both overall health outcomes, such as poor mental health days and overall health factors, such as physical inactivity. In Dover, there are disjointed efforts to make changes to improve the health of the youth. Members of organizations in Dover highlight the need for streamlined communication between them for improved awareness of upcoming events, as many events are missed.

RESPONSE

University of Delaware Cooperative Extension brought together 76 individuals, 30 of whom were new this year, representing 44 organizations to work in partnership on projects to improve the health of Dover youth in the areas of mental health, education, and food access. The Dover Youth Committee (DYC) meetings were held bimonthly, and subcommittee meetings were held on alternating months. All meetings were virtual except for two in-person committee meetings. DYC sent out emails of committee members' events and opportunities for partnership to members as needed.

RESULTS

According to the Coalition Effectiveness Inventory assessment, the DYC improved as a coalition in several areas, such as coalition structure and membership. This was further evidenced by the Levels of Collaboration Scale assessment, which showed an increase in the level of collaboration with multiple key members of the DYC. Additionally, DYC members were asked to complete a feedback survey after the final DYC meeting of the year. Of those who completed the survey:

71% stated they have networked or partnered with another organization as a result of their relationship with the DYC.
100% stated that communication with DYC increased their knowledge of events in the Dover area.
82% believed that the DYC has likely had an impact on their organization.
100% plan to stay involved in the coming year.

Committee members stated that communication, space to connect, and committee-developed resources for sharing are currently the biggest strengths of the DYC. As further evidence of the increase in communication and collaboration of DYC members, the Dover Youth Committee organized a committee-led community dinner in January 2024. Several DYC members were active in the planning and contributing resources to the event.

RECOGNITION

Funding for this effort was provided by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation Well Connected Communities and Sustainable Coastal Communities Initiative.

PUBLIC VALUE STATEMENT

The efforts and outcomes of numerous community organizations concerned with the health of Dover youth have been enhanced through the development of the Dover Youth Committee, which brings together partners and shares information and resources across the network.