Using Bimodal Social Network Analysis as a Descriptive Evaluation Tool for Examining Process Changes in a Youth Wellness-Focused, Place-Based Initiative (Youth Wellness Zone).

Abstract

<b>Objectives.</b> To evaluate a place-based collective impact strategy on aligned multisector resources and perceptions of local youth wellness needs. <b>Methods.</b> Leaders and community members from Pierce County, Washington State, partnered with a university to develop a place-based youth wellness zone (YWZ). Two surveys, administered 9 months apart in 2023 and 2024, assessed social relationships within the network, ideas about youth needs, and willingness to invest in a pooled fund. Bimodal social network analyses evaluated changes in idea alignment over time. <b>Results.</b> Analyses showed increases in social network resource sharing within social clusters (<i>C</i> = 0.33 to 0.45). Ideas alignment strengthened over time concurrent with YWZ planning activities. No changes in overall network growth were observed. Motivation to contribute to a pooled fund was mixed, which was attributed to the early stage of implementation. <b>Conclusions.</b> Initiatives such as YWZs may influence the alignment of goals and resource sharing within communities. Social network analysis is a promising process and evaluation tool for collective impact efforts. <b>Public Health Implications.</b> Measuring degree of social connectedness and goals alignment may support successful implementation of place-based initiatives. (<i>Am J Public Health</i>. 2026;116(S3): S162-S170. https://doi.org/10.2105/AJPH.2025.308397).