Recruitment, Retention, and Program Materials

Once your food bank is prepared to implement a diabetes program, it will need to have a plan for recruiting and retaining participants, as well as evidence-based materials that can communicate and reinforce key messages for participants.

• A recruitment plan may help to ensure that those most in need of diabetes services are aware of the program and have the opportunity to participate.
• A retention plan can focus on creating a supportive program environment and keeping participants actively engaged. It may not only maximize the effectiveness of the program for individual participants but also contribute to the program’s overall impact and sustainability.
• Program handouts and other materials can help to communicate key ideas related to diabetes self-management and reinforce participant learning at home.

The tabs to the right provide ideas on how to approach participant recruitment and retention as well as sample materials that your food bank may be able to use or adapt for your diabetes program.