Applying the ACTION Framework to BCJI in Tucson, Arizona

Abstract

The Tucson BCJI case, known as THRIVE in the 05, is focused on a cluster of small neighborhoods near the urban core of Tucson, Arizona. The THRIVE in the 05 community is known for its unique history and cultural vitality. Despite its unique historical character, the THRIVE in the 05 community currently faces many challenges that limit opportunities for community and economic development, including crime. In this chapter, we describe the THRIVE in the 05 planning and assessment phase process and outcomes and the application of the ACTION framework - a research framework that was developed to guide research and planning efforts. The ACTION framework is made up of four domains: assess, connect, transform, and in our neighborhood. Each of these domains is grounded in an overarching principle of shared expertise among community partners (i.e., those individuals who live in or otherwise have stake in the target community) and researchers. The principle of shared expertise recognizes that community members and research partners each bring unique expertise, skills, and experiences to the table that strengthen the research design. In terms of process, this translates into joint decision-making and ensuring that both entities have equal power to share perspectives and knowledge. Ultimately, this results in action-focused research that optimizes scientific rigor and community authenticity, leading to the co-creation of intervention strategies to address community concerns in meaningful and sustainable ways.