AMBASSADORS

Meet The Ambassadors

CHW Ambassadors are community leaders with a subject area mastery. They are professionals with lived experience. CHW Ambassadors provide education, outreach, navigation, and advocacy to communities, organizations, and government.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a community health worker?
A community health worker (CHW) is a frontline public health worker who is a trusted member of and/or has an unusually close understanding of the community served.  They typically provide culturally appropriate health education, outreach, and care coordination to individuals and families, and may also help to connect them to health services and resources.
What does a community health workers do?
The role of community health workers (CHWs) may vary depending on the needs of the community they serve and the specific program or organization they work for. However, common duties may include conducting health screenings, providing health education, facilitating access to healthcare services, advocating for community health needs, and assisting with care coordination.
What kind of training is required for community health workers?
The specific requirements for training and certification vary by state and employer. Some community health workers may receive on-the-job training, while others may need to complete a formal training program or obtain certification.
What kinds of health issues do community health workers address?
Community health workers can work with individuals and communities to address a wide range of health issues, including chronic diseases, mental health, substance abuse, maternal and child health, and infectious diseases.
What is the job outlook for community health workers?
The job outlook for community health workers is positive, with employment in this field projected to grow in the coming years. This is due in part to the increasing recognition of the important role that community health workers play in improving health outcomes and reducing healthcare costs.
What kind of work settings do community health workers typically work in?
Community health workers can work in a variety of settings, including healthcare facilities, community-based organizations, government agencies, and non-profit organizations. They may also work in schools, workplaces, and other community settings.
What is the role of community health workers in health promotion and disease prevention?
Community health workers play a critical role in promoting health and preventing disease by providing education and outreach to individuals and communities. This can include activities such as conducting health screenings, providing information on healthy lifestyle choices, and connecting individuals with resources to help them stay healthy.
What is the impact of community health workers on health outcomes?
Research has shown that community health workers can improve health outcomes and reduce healthcare costs, particularly for underserved populations. CHWs can help to improve access to healthcare, increase health literacy, and promote healthy behaviors.
What are some examples of programs that employ community health workers?
Community health workers may work for a variety of programs and organizations, including healthcare systems, community health centers, non-profit organizations, and government agencies. Examples of programs that may employ CHWs include diabetes management programs, HIV prevention programs, and maternal and child health programs.
What are some challenges faced by community health workers?
Community health workers may face challenges related to the social determinants of health, including poverty, housing instability, and limited access to healthcare. They may also face challenges related to stigma, discrimination, and lack of resources. In addition, the work can be emotionally challenging, as CHWs often work with individuals who are dealing with complex health issues.

Cancer Prevention

Chelsea Ferguson

Chelsea Ferguson

Community Health Worker

Region: Northern

Concentration: Cancer Education

Bio Highlight: “My role is to educate and strengthen the trust within the African community about health and culturally sensitive topics

Dayana Camacho

Dayana Camacho

Community Health Worker

Region: Central

Concentration: Cancer Education

Bio Highlight: “My calling is to lead, support, and connect Latino communities with local resources.”

Community Engagement & Outreach
Xiomara Vidal

Xiomara Vidal

Community Health Worker

Region: Central

Concentration: Youth Development

Bio Highlight: “I love to connect with the youth. Help them explore their curiosity and creativity”

Stephanie Toney

Stephanie Toney

Community Health Worker

Region: Central

Concentration: Community Engagement

Bio Highlight: “My passion is to serve others through education and awareness. Investing in other is investing in the future.”

Marco Thomas

Marco Thomas

Community Health Worker

Region: Central

Concentration: Housing + Employment

Bio Highlight: “My calling is rooted in the premise of building deep connections within a community. Life experiences are key to building trust.”

Charlene Pitchford

Charlene Pitchford

Community Health Worker

Region: Central

Concentration: Community Resources

Bio Highlight: “I love serving my community. I find joy in being able to serve as a conduit of information and resources.”

Chronic Disease + Diabetes Self-Management
Bennie Gates

Bennie Gates

Community Health Worker

Region: Central

Concentration: Diabetes Self-Management

Bio Highlight: “I love encouraging and promoting the principles of wellness. My life is a testimony of perseverance and resistance.”

Tomeka Martin

Tomeka Martin

Community Health Worker

Region: Northwest

Concentration: Life Coach

Bio Highlight: “My passion has always been to help others. I am supporting returning citizens in their pathway to achieving greater success.”

VACHWA

The Virginia Community Health Worker Association (VACHWA) is led by industry professionals; who are committed to serving, developing and building their community through access to education and equity in public health.

CONTACT US

  • Call : 804-477-5966
  • Email : info@chwofva.com

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