Purpose of the Research

The purpose of this research collaborative was to explore, develop, pilot and evaluate how best to provide community-based mental health services and supports that will be effective for people from culturally diverse backgrounds. Five cultural linguistic communities were actively involved (Somali, Sikh Punjabi, Polish, Mandarin, Spanish Latin American) in both Toronto and in Waterloo Region. In working with five distinctively different communities, one of the project’s explicit goals has been to emphasize the transferability of knowledge gained to all of multicultural Canada (see Janzen, Ochocka & CURA partners, 2007).

Research Methodology

The methodological framework of this project is that of Participatory Action Research (PAR), whereby the approach is collaborative, interactive, relevant to the community, and value driven and thus, a balance is sought between theoretical/academic perspectives and those coming from lived experience. PAR is a form of applied research that combines the traditions of participatory research
and action research, while the values of PAR are strongly rooted in democracy, equality, liberation and change. PAR is defined as “a research approach that consists of the maximum participation of stakeholders, those whose lives are affected by the problem under study, in the systematic collection and analysis of information for the purpose of taking action and making change” (Nelson, Ochocka,
Griffin & Lord 1998, p.12).

Four mechanisms were used to implement the participatory action approach.

  • The Partnership Group that guides the study includes representatives from all partner organizations.
  • Local multi-stakeholder steering committees lead the research component within each site (Toronto and Waterloo Region).
  • Researchers from participating ethno-cultural communities are hired and trained as researcher assistants (“community researchers”). These community researchers are involved in all aspects of research and act as ambassadors and agents of change within their respective communities.
  • Ongoing communication and feedback is provided to research participants, community members, and program partners including two conferences organized to share findings and plan future activities within and outside the alliance.