Virginia Community Health Worker Association

The Virginia Community Health Worker Association (VACHWA) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting community health workers (CHWs) in Virginia by providing a platform for networking, education, and advocacy.

Mission and Activities

VACHWA is led by both community health workers and industry professionals, focusing on serving, developing, and building Virginia communities through enhanced access to education and equity in public health. The association offers various resources and training to help CHWs grow personally and professionally, promoting their critical role in improving community health outcomes.

Membership and Benefits

VACHWA operates as a membership-based organization, offering its members opportunities to participate in policy decision-making and event planning. Members benefit from discounts on conferences, corporate discounts, banking benefits, and access to networking events. This structure allows members to engage deeply in the association's activities and governance.

Events and Conferences

VACHWA hosts a range of events, including annual conferences, monthly meetings, and community fairs. These events serve as important forums for community engagement, professional development, and advocacy on health issues relevant to Virginia's communities.

Role in Community Health

By focusing on education and advocacy, VACHWA plays a significant role in enhancing the capacity of community health workers to address public health challenges in Virginia. This support is crucial for fostering equitable health outcomes and for ensuring that CHWs have the necessary resources and recognition to perform their duties effectively.

Certification and Professional Development

While Virginia does not operate a state-run certification program for CHWs, VACHWA's efforts focus on providing training and support that align with national standards for CHW competencies. This helps ensure that CHWs in Virginia have access to professional development opportunities that are comparable to those available in states with formal certification programs.

In summary, the Virginia Community Health Worker Association is a vital organization that empowers CHWs through networking, education, and advocacy, contributing to improved public health outcomes in Virginia.

[1] https://www.institutephi.org/virginia-community-health-worker-association/ [2] https://chwofva.com/aboutus/ [3] https://chwofva.com [4] https://www.eventbrite.com/o/virginia-community-health-worker-association-18604591855 [5] https://www.astho.org/topic/brief/state-approaches-to-community-health-worker-certification/