North Carolina Models and Innovations

These stories feature model programs and successful rural projects that can serve as a source of ideas. Some of the projects or programs may no longer be active. Read about the criteria and evidence-base for programs included.

Other Project Examples

Project PROMISE

Updated/reviewed April 2023

• Need: An increased interest among young people to pursue a medical career in rural North Carolina
• Intervention: Two medical students started a program that gives high school seniors medical academic training, mentor relationships, and hands-on experience in rural North Carolina facilities.
• Results: Project PROMISE has graduated 36 high school students, 16 of whom are pursuing an undergraduate degree with an interest in studying medicine. Two students were recently accepted into medical school.

Together With Veterans Rural Suicide Prevention Program

Updated/reviewed February 2023

• Need: Suicide among veterans has been steadily increasing, and rural veterans have an increased risk of death by suicide compared to urban veterans.
• Intervention: A program called Together With Veterans was formed to help rural communities address and prevent suicides among veterans. The initiative is veteran-led, collaborative, evidence-based, and community-centered.
• Results: Data collection is ongoing.

Partners in Health and Wholeness

Updated/reviewed December 2022

• Need: To lessen the impact of chronic disease and associated complications in North Carolina.
• Intervention: Partners in Health and Wholeness, an initiative of the NC Council of Churches, is a faith-based program that integrates healthy living within congregations while offering financial support to launch or expand health initiatives. The program partners with faith communities in North Carolina to fund and support their health initiatives through collaborative partnerships.
• Results: Since its founding in 2009, over 900 churches have become a part of the PHW, many in rural areas, and over 600 mini-grants have been awarded to congregations.

Health-e-Schools

Updated/reviewed October 2022

• Need: Rural school children lack proper healthcare resources within the school setting.
• Intervention: Health-e-Schools provides health services to students via telehealth using video conferencing and special equipment.
• Results: Health-e-Schools increases access to primary healthcare, increases attendance in the classroom, and decreases the amount of time that parents or guardians must take off of work to bring their child to health-related appointments.

Geezers, Gulpers, and Gardeners

Updated/reviewed September 2022

• Need: Suicide rates among white males age 65 and older have been rising in North Carolina. Challenges include losing friends, illnesses, and the loss of independence – all of which can lead to isolation and depression.
• Intervention: The Chatham County Council on Aging of North Carolina started Geezers, Gulpers, and Gardeners (3G Group) to connect retired men in need of male friends and mutual support.
• Results: Men in similar stages of life and varying backgrounds are forming friendships, engaging in activities, and taking care of their mental health.

North Carolina Innovative Approaches Initiative

Updated/reviewed July 2022

• Need: Children and youth with special healthcare needs (CYSHCN) face many barriers to coordinated, comprehensive, and culturally competent healthcare.
• Intervention: The North Carolina Innovative Approaches (IA) Initiative works with families of CYSHCN and other community leaders to make systems changes in the state's healthcare system.
• Results: IA has impacted 22 counties and has had a positive impact on increasing family engagement and community capacity for systems changes.

Items per page: 10 100 All