NEW Soul for Families: Lessons Learned from Implementing a Plant-based Nutrition Program in the Community

Background: Childhood obesity is linked to a higher risk of other chronic diseases. Cultural preferences for soul food dishes may contribute to obesity in African American children and families. Objective: To discuss lessons learned from the development and implementation of NEW Soul for Families, a plant-based nutrition program for African American children. Methods: A partnership with the Boys & Girls Clubs, EdVenture Children's Museum, and the Food Academy was formed. Children (n = 15) participated in the program across two cohorts. Each cohort lasted three weeks with three classes per week. Parents of enrolled children were invited to attend one class per week. Children learned nutrition topics and engaged in hands-on cooking. Lessons Learned: Community partners shared power to successfully implement the program; surveying parents increased their attendance from the first cohort to the second cohort; children rated the program positively. Conclusions: NEW Soul for Families was well received by community partners and participants. More studies are needed to determine effectiveness.