Advocate for Health Equity

Advancing the CHW Profession in Virginia

VACHWA Advocacy

Since 2016, the Virginia Community Health Worker Association (VACHWA) has played a leading role in advancing Community Health Worker (CHW) advocacy across the Commonwealth. Through collaboration with partners, legislators, and CHWs, VACHWA has helped drive meaningful policy and systems change that strengthens the workforce and promotes health equity.

Key Milestones:

  • Supported the development of CHW certification models

  • Helped facilitate the CHW Legacy Certification Period

  • Championed landmark legislation, including HB688 (2020), securing title protection for CHWs

  • Provided scholarships and led statewide certification surveys to ensure CHW voices are centered

Advocacy Training

VACHWA offers advocacy training twice a year (May and October), equipping CHWs with the knowledge and skills to advocate for themselves, their communities, and the profession.

To learn more about our advocacy efforts and upcoming trainings, visit our website using the link below.

We remain committed to strengthening the CHW workforce through policy, training, and a unified voice for health equity.

Virginia Community Health Worker Association