The Community Workforce and Partnerships section (CWP) includes 3 vital programs and initiatives focused on implementing place-based and workforce strategies that center community and help reduce health disparities in Washington. CWP fosters a collaborative approach, working with diverse partners to champion health equity.
Programs and Initiatives
Community Health Worker Leadership Committee
The Community Health Worker Leadership Committee is an ongoing, statewide, multi-partner group representative of Washington’s Community Health Workers (CHW). It was created as part of a 2018-2019 CHW Task Force recommendation to develop infrastructure in the CHW workforce. Members include CHWs and representatives from statewide CHW networks, government agencies, health care systems, non-profits, community colleges, and other associations from across the state.
Contact: John Freidl, CHW Leadership Committee Manager
Community Health Worker Program
The Community Health Worker Program is a free training program to improve the skills and knowledge of community health workers based in Washington. This online training happens multiple times a year and is offered in English and Spanish, making it easy for people across the state to join and benefit from.
Contact: Kaung Myat Thu, Community Health Worker Training Program Manager
Health Equity Zones (HEZ) Initiative
The Washington's Health Equity Zones (HEZ) Initiative was created by Senate Bill 5052 in 2021, the HEZ Initiative sets up health equity zones where people experience significant social, environmental, and resource-related challenges. Each zone uses community input to find and solve health problems, making sure those most affected by health issues have a say in improving their community.
Contact: Brianne Ramos, Health Equity Zones
Contact
Lydia Guy Ortiz, Section Manager