Date of Graduation
Summer 8-13-2026
Document Access
Project/Capstone - Global access
Degree Name
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
Program
MSN project
First Advisor
Beth Koser Schwartz Ph.D., RN, PHN, MAT
Abstract
The vision of the Project Access organization is to empower residents of affordable housing communities to achieve self-sufficiency and maximize their full potential by providing access to resources and opportunities for success. Project Access provides convenient, accessible support where residents live and now makes those resources available through a mobile application. The mobile app functions as an extension of the Project Access Resource Center by improving communication between residents and staff, increasing awareness of available services and encouraging participation in programs and events. Resident engagement with the Project Access Connect mobile application has been lower than expected since the app launch in May 2026. This quality improvement project was conducted with the aim of developing an evidence-based Digital Communication Toolkit in order to streamline communication practices and support future program implementation efforts through the mobile application. Guided by Rogers’ Diffusion of Innovation Theory, the toolkit was developed following a comprehensive review of current evidence on digital engagement strategies across a wide variety of mobile health applications. Recommended interventions include personalized communication, targeted push notifications, automated event reminders, regular health promotion messaging, gamification, resident feedback opportunities, multilingual communication, digital literacy support, and enhanced promotion of community resources and partnerships. The effectiveness of the toolkit will be evaluated using a Plan-Do-Study-Act (PDSA) framework during a future quality improvement project. Outcome measures will include mobile app downloads, active users, participation in community programs and resident feedback collected before and after implementation. Results are pending completion of the implementation phase; however, the proposed interventions are expected to improve app adoption, resident engagement, and improve 3 participation in community programming. This project provides Project Access with a standardized, evidence-based communication toolkit that can support future quality improvement initiatives while fulfilling the Project Access mission of promoting equitable access to services, strengthening community connections, and advancing resident well-being through user-centered digital engagement strategies.
Recommended Citation
Gilsinger, Tammy, "Building Healthy, Connected Communities Through Mobile Engagement" (2026). Master's Projects and Capstones. 2036.
https://repository.usfca.edu/capstone/2036
