There is a growing awareness by researchers of the critical need to engage underrepresented populations in research , resulting in studies to explore this phenomenon. Past findings suggest that underrepresented individuals are willing to participate in research [14, 23, 24], and have expressed positive views about research participation being an opportunity or even a right . However, barriers reduce researchers’ ability to engage with these groups. These individuals are often not in an environment where research recruitment occurs , and/or they lack awareness of research opportunities. Underrepresented groups sometimes feel that research is not relevant to them or their families . Limited knowledge about the nature of research is another barrier. For example, these community members often misunderstand the purpose of research and research procedures; perceive that clinical trials will not benefit them personally; feel frustrated due to poor dissemination of research findings to the community; and feel “left out” of the research process . As a result, a new approach is warranted to enhance research participation rates.