Expanding Evidence-Based Practice Models for Domestic Violence Initiatives: A Community-Centered Approach

Objective: Community-based domestic violence (DV) organizations require an adapted model for demonstrating how their strategies fit evidence-based practice (EBP). In response, a national DV resource center Casa de Esperanza adapted an EBP model called the community-centered evidence-based practice (CCEBP) approach. CCEBP offers an expanded definition of EBP that prioritizes culturally relevant evidence grounded in the voices of community members. The authors use Te Invito (I Invite You), a DV prevention initiative, as an illustrative example of how CCEBP can successfully guide practitioners to collect and apply community-related evidence in their work. Key points: The CCEBP approach addresses the lack of a practice model consistent with the work of cultural-specific, community-based practitioners. By expanding traditional models of EBP to prioritize community expertise, it provides an alternative understanding of what is considered EBP in the field of DV. Conclusions: The CCEBP approach offers an enhanced EBP model for community-based organizations working alongside Latina/o and other cultural-specific communities. The focus on community within the CCEBP approach can protect against the indiscriminate application of practice ill-fitting to the needs of Latino/a families and other diverse groups.