What does CHER do?
We support, mentor, and train faculty and students in participant-engaged research that drives meaningful change. Our work centers on collaborative, interdisciplinary efforts to advance HIV and STI prevention, promote health in relation to substance use, and evaluate community-based health programs and place-based initiatives.
Overview of CHER
CHER is located in the College of Medicine at Charles Drew University. Prior to joining CDU in September 2024, CHER was at California State University, Long Beach (CSULB). Our research focuses on engaging stakeholders in addressing public health issues and solutions within their communities. Our areas of research expertise include HIV prevention, alcohol, tobacco, and cannabis use reduction/prevention, and improving mental health across a range of populations.
Interventions used in several of our HIV prevention studies (Project RESPECT, RESPECT-2, and Safe in the City) have been designated by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention as evidence-based behavioral interventions (EBI) and have been included in the Compendium of Evidence-Based Interventions and Best Practices for HIV Prevention. CHER faculty and staff have also worked on two other EBIs (Safe in the City and Community PROMISE). There are 250 EBI interventions, and we are proud of the contributions made in this area by our Center.
Contact Us!
Please email any questions about the CHER Institute to Dr. Wendy Nomura