Elevating community‐driven socioecological participation and action: A case study with Black youth.

Context is important when considering how racism acts to harm Black youth. Hence, social scientists developed socioecological theories that consider both the individual and the context(s) which shapes them. We used these theories to make sense of the challenges facing Black youth and identify points for intervention. However, these theories were rarely shared with community participants. Theory, at its core, is a way to make sense of the world. Theory shared in an age‐appropriate manner can help youth make sense of their experiences in a way that promotes psychological wellness. This paper describes the intentional sharing of socioecological theory with community members engaged in two community‐based mental health programs. Our team has collaborated closely with community stakeholders to implement and iteratively improve these programs. This first‐person account presents the doctoral students' experiences in engaging community members in using socioecological theory to improve the programs with which they have identified as useful to their community. The article underscores the importance of elevating community voices when engaging in community‐based research and how that engagement is more fundamental as programs become well‐established. Highlights: Community‐based participatory research (CBPR) encourages a more equitable research process.Together, CBPR and socioecological theories contextualize the lived experiences of Black youth.The socioecological theory presented in an age‐appropriate fashion inspired youth‐driven action.Revised curriculums of both CBPR programs reflect this salient interest in community engagement.Ongoing discussion with community members is essential in ensuring CBPR interventions stay relevant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]