KDHE’s KPOP coalition: employer survey led to dozens of policy changes and large social‑media reach, presenters say

Vanessa Eberly, program manager for Essentials for Childhood at the Kansas Department of Health and Environment, and a KDHE epidemiologist described Kansas Power of the Positive (KPOP) as a statewide coalition that uses evidence‑based strategies to reduce adverse childhood experiences and promote positive childhood experiences.

"Because of KPOP's hard work, KDHE was able to apply for funding from the CDC," Eberly said, describing the Essentials for Childhood cooperative agreement that supports the coalition. The presenters said KPOP pursues three strategies: strengthening economic supports through family‑friendly workplace policies, changing social norms to promote connectedness and using data to guide action.

Sofia (KDHE epidemiologist) said the coalition’s employer survey—administered to workplaces across the state—has collected responses from about 40 Kansas employers and more than 3,200 employees since 2020. She said the project has identified gaps in child‑care access and other policies and that employers have implemented roughly 28 policy changes, including telework options, parent supports and lactation rooms. The presenters said an evaluation estimated about 12,000 employees have been affected by those changes.

Eberly also highlighted a social‑media campaign promoting social connectedness that produced approximately 15,000,000 impressions; KDHE plans to repeat the campaign and to offer trainings such as 'Connections Matter' and HOPE facilitation to local partners.

Panelists asked about follow‑up evaluation and employee satisfaction; presenters said PCG and local partners periodically check back with employers and sometimes re‑survey employees to assess impacts but noted barriers such as staff turnover at participating businesses.

The presentation concluded with invitations to host data walks, join KPOP and use the coalition’s free community‑health‑worker learning modules.