College of Graduate Studies: Theses & Dissertations

Term of Award

Spring 2026

Degree Name

Doctor of Public Health in Public Health Leadership (Dr.P.H.)

Document Type and Release Option

Dissertation (open access)

Copyright Statement / License for Reuse

Creative Commons License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 License.

Department

College of Public Health

Committee Chair

Ana Palacios

Committee Member 1

Andrew Hansen

Committee Member 2

Bettye Apenteng

Abstract

This program evaluation study examines the implementation of the 2025 Shelter From the Rain “Mothers with Mentors” program in Savannah, GA. Utilizing a convergent parallel mixed-methods approach, the study evaluates the program’s acceptability, feasibility, and perceived benefit through the theoretical lenses of the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB), the Health Belief Model (HBM), and Bonding Social Network (BSN). The analysis incorporates quantitative and qualitative data for participant mentees (n=7) and mentors (n=12), with a specialized paired analysis of five mentor-mentee matches.

The findings indicate a complex landscape of convergence and divergence across the groups. Quantitative results depicted high convergence on program Feasibility, with both mentees (90%) and mentors (92%) maintaining exceptional attendance rates. Qualitatively, this feasibility was expanded by the theme of text communication and frequent check-ins where these touchpoints compensated for the demand of busy schedules. In terms of Acceptability, convergence was noted in the strength of the BSN, with participants viewing the mentor-mentee relationship as a vital emotional safety net.

However, informative divergences emerged in the perception of Perceived Benefit. While mentees often prioritized immediate “Cues to Action” (HBM), such as household supplies and crisis stabilization, mentors primarily noted feeling rewarded by "Economic Actualization" (TPB), such as mentees launching LLCs or paying off debt. Paired mentor-mentee analysis further highlighted a gap in some pairs, where mentors perceived a lack of professional ambition while mentees reported maximum satisfaction with the resources and support provided.

Ultimately, the study proves that mentorship serves as a synergistic bridge between the intention to improve (TPB) and the actualization of stability (BSN/HBM). The data suggests that while logistical frictions persist, the internal strength of the bond provides the resilience necessary for measurable progress. Recommendations include formalizing a communication plan and implementing a tiered success plan to reduce participant burden. This study contributes to the public health literature by demonstrating how structured community mentorship can mitigate the social and economic isolation faced by single-mother households.

Research Data and Supplementary Material

Yes

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