August 24-28, 2026

Community Health Worker Awareness Week is an opportunity to recognize and celebrate the dedicated professionals who serve as trusted voices, advocates, and connectors within our communities. At Northwest Area Health Education Center (Northwest AHEC), we are proud to join partners across North Carolina in honoring the vital contributions of Community Health Workers (CHWs) and the positive impact they make every day.

Community Health Workers play a unique and essential role in improving health outcomes and strengthening communities. Whether employed by healthcare organizations, public health agencies, community-based organizations, or social service programs, CHWs help individuals and families navigate complex systems, access needed resources, and overcome barriers to care.

From connecting patients with healthcare services and providing health education to supporting care coordination and addressing social drivers of health such as housing, transportation, and food security, CHWs are often the bridge between healthcare systems and the communities they serve. Their lived experiences, cultural understanding, and deep community connections help build trust and create meaningful relationships that support improved health and well-being.

As healthcare organizations continue to focus on whole-person care, the value of Community Health Workers has become increasingly evident. CHWs help foster engagement, improve communication, support prevention efforts, and contribute to healthier outcomes for individuals and families throughout North Carolina. Their work advances health equity and ensures that more people have the support they need to achieve their best possible health.

Northwest AHEC is committed to supporting the Community Health Worker workforce through education, training, and collaboration. Through the NC AHEC Community Health Worker Program, individuals have access to professional development opportunities, technical assistance, and resources designed to strengthen and sustain this important workforce.

During Community Health Worker Awareness Week, we encourage healthcare professionals, organizations, and community members to take a moment to recognize the dedication, compassion, and expertise of CHWs. Their contributions often happen behind the scenes, but their impact is felt every day in communities across our region and throughout the state.

Learn More

To learn more about Community Health Workers and available resources, visit:

• NC AHEC Community Health Worker Program: https://www.ncahec.net/chw/
• North Carolina Community Health Worker Association (NCCHWA): https://ncchwa.org
• National Association of Community Health Workers (NACHW): https://nachw.org

As we celebrate Community Health Worker Awareness Week 2026, Northwest AHEC extends its sincere gratitude to all Community Health Workers for their unwavering commitment to improving the health and well-being of North Carolinians. Thank you for the difference you make in the lives of individuals, families, and communities every day.

Happy Community Health Worker Awareness Week from Northwest AHEC!