What is a CHW? We are more than you think..

What is a CHW? Community Health Workers are more than you think. I sit at tables

with people who don't really know. I sit quietly because not being heard keeps you quiet. In the meantime, here is the correct answer to this very important question.

A Community Health Worker (CHW) is a frontline public worker who is a trusted member of and/or has an unusually close understanding of the community served. This trusting relationship enables the CHW to serve as a iaison/link/intermediary between health/social services and the community to facilitate access to services and improve the quality and cultural competence of service delivery. A CHW also builds individual and community capacity by increasing health knowledge and self- sufficiency through a range of activities such as outreach, community education, informal counseling, social support and advocacy. But trust me, we do more for one single person who needs that personal touch, a caring hug and we help make a difference in the lives of many too.

Common Titles for CHWs

Case Manager/ Case Worker Health Educator

Community Health Advocate Health Worker

Community Health Outreach Worker Lay Health Advisor

Community Health Worker Public Health Aide

Community Outreach Worker Patient Navigator

Community Liaison Peer Counselor

Community Organizer Peer Educator

Enrollment Specialist

Health Ambassador

It is an honor to be apart of a team of awesome, caring and responsible individuals that live, work and appreciate the people in our communities. We care, We live, We are trusted and We make a difference.

Are you a Community Health Worker? If so, feel free to share your story. We want to hear from you!

What challenges do you face? What is the most important part of your job?

Share a success story!