Project REACH

Project Information

• Study Years: 4/1/2024 – 4/2/2029
• Study Sites: This project is a collaboration between researchers at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (led by: Dr. Brian A. Boyd & Dr. Iheoma U. Iruka) and Drexel University (led by: Dr. Elizabeth McGhee Hassrick & Dr. Ayana Allen-Handy)

Recruitment Information

• Recruitment Target: 150 per site (300 total); 30 per site per year (over next 5 years)
• Eligibility Criteria:
  • We’re looking for parents or caregivers who:
    • Have a child with autism between ages 3–9
    • Identify as Black
    • Live in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Delaware, or North Carolina
• Compensation Information:
  • Participants will be compensated $200 for completing the study activities.
  • Participants will be compensated an additional $100 if they complete the optional focus group

Study Blurb

We are excited to share an opportunity to participate in Project REACH, a research study aimed at better understanding Black families raising children with autism.

Project REACH seeks to explore minority health disparities through the lens of the mental health and experiences of Black parents and caregivers of children with autism (ages 3-9). Additionally, we want to understand how these experiences may influence the child’s behavior and development. The long-term goal is to improve support and understanding for Black families raising children with autism.

Project REACH is looking for parents/caregivers who:

• Have a child with autism between ages 3–9
• Identify as Black
• Live in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Delaware, or North Carolina

If you join, you’ll take part in:

• A child assessment (in person at home or a clinic)
• A few online surveys and a virtual interview about your experiences
• An optional virtual focus group with other parents