MDR worked with Rinck Advertising and the Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention (Maine CDC) to conduct qualitative research exploring tobacco and prescription drug use among New Mainers, immigrant and refugee populations recently resettled in Maine. The study also included Community Health Workers (CHWs) who serve these communities. The goal was to better understand substance use behaviors, barriers to prevention and treatment, and culturally appropriate communication strategies to inform future public health outreach. 

MDR collaborated with several community partners for recruitment, including New Mainers Public Health Initiative (NMPHI), Maine Families, and contacts from the CDC Community Care Partners Monthly Meetings. To reduce barriers to participation, MDR opted against using an online screener and instead relied on direct outreach and culturally tailored recruitment materials. Participants were drawn from Greater Portland, Lewiston, and Biddeford, and represented diverse countries of origin including Somalia, Angola, Democratic Republic of Congo, Djibouti, and Sudan. 

The research design included two in-person focus groups with 23 participants, seven virtual in-depth interviews with New Mainers, and three interviews with CHWs. MDR developed the discussion guide in collaboration with Rinck and Maine CDC, covering topics such as experiences with tobacco and prescription drugs, barriers to quitting, awareness of resources like the Maine QuitLink, and ideas for improving substance use education and outreach. 

MDR provided a comprehensive set of deliverables including audio and video recordings, redacted transcripts, a detailed research report with executive summary, and a presentation of findings. Translation services were coordinated through community partners, and all participants received compensation for their time. 

This project stands out for its culturally responsive methodology and deep engagement with community partners. By centering the voices of New Mainers and those who work closely with them, MDR helped illuminate critical gaps in substance use education and support, and laid the groundwork for more inclusive public health programming in Maine.