We make suggestions for future research studies, particularly as related to understanding how peer leader identities and cultural norms within VSOs might contribute to peer-led health intervention success.

Community organizations, such as churches, clubs, and senior centers, can be important locations for health programs. However, little is known about the organizational factors that influence participation and engagement in health programs. To learn more, we evaluated a community-based program designed to help US military veterans better manage their high blood pressure. The program involved training a pair of veterans to deliver health-related presentations at their local units. We found that factors such as larger meeting attendance size, rural location, age diversity, and member enthusiasm were positively associated with both a willingness to participate and a high level of engagement in program activities.

Background: Homelessness is about survival and more than an issue of bricks and mortar. It is not a static dimension and alludes to a troubled age and brokenness of society. Despite dramatic declines in numbers of people presently homeless, the issue continues to be a public health issue. The number of veterans currently homeless continues to be of national concern despite application of resources. More needs to be done to better understand the concerns of veterans, once homeless and now housed. Method: Qualitative research in the form of interviews provided insights from the veterans on their experience around achieving housing. Qualitative methods are often used in evaluations as they speak of the experience of the program being evaluated by capturing and then communicating the narratives of the participants. This study was grounded in community-based participatory research where a member of community was a part of all phases of the research process. Results: Seven interviews with formerly homeless veterans were conducted. Themes included the following: Burnt Brides and Regrets, Survival, Spirituality, Recovery and Stress, Supportive Care, Reunite Family, and Sickness and Health. Discussion: The themes provide insight into the experience of the veterans and a means to better understand the healing process. Understanding of the healing process includes the following: Acknowledging the Courage to go Deep, Time, Veterans Giving Back, and Recovery is Ongoing. Despite what was learned, further research is needed to better understand the long-term implications of people formerly homeless now housed.

EDUCATION AND TRAININGsystemic inequities, [3][4][5] and has been successful in improving outcomes 6 and informing public health policy 7 within vulnerable communities. Community-engaged research relies on authentic community-academic partnership characterized by mutual respect for each other's values and a shared vision