ELEVATE: Implementation of a Healthy Marriage and Relationship Education Program by a Statewide Cooperative Extension Service

This process study report from the Office of Planning, Research and Evaluation features the University of Florida’s ELEVATE program, which is delivered by the University’s Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences county-based Cooperative Extension Service. ELEVATE aims to teach couples practical approaches to support healthy relationships and to develop mindfulness practices that address the physiological response to conflict and stress. The study covers the context for implementing ELEVATE, procedures for greater implementation of ELEVATE through the Extension statewide, and approaches for recruitment and enrollment of couples and for encouraging program participation and engagement. The study is part of the Strengthening Relationship Education and Marriage Services evaluation of five Healthy Marriage and Relationship Education grantees.