May 2024 Newsletter

Dear Maine CHWs and Allies, 

A big thank you to everyone who attended the 2024 CHW Summit and for those of you that could not, we look forward to having you join us next year! Our plan is to grow each year and offer you more resources and learning opportunities. Please continue to read below about the highlights and watch for photos of the event on our website.

-MECHW Initiative Advisory Committee

The committees are deep in the weeds of the work- Join us!

Interested participants that signed up for a committee have receive an email with meeting details and will start the important work on behalf of the Initiative.

Workforce Development Committee (WDC)

WDC is currently reviewing certification recommendations from the initiative, developing a tool kit and resource guide for CHWs, please see the website as it is being built.

Policy/Advocacy Committee (PAC)

The PAC is working on an action plan to advance its strategic objectives. Members are reviewing available information from Maine and other states on infrastructure that supports and sustains the CHW profession. Members are interested in planning a listening session with members to gather additional information about their policy priorities in June.  Anyone that is interested in joining the PAC should contact Ben Hummel (benjamin.hummel@maine.gov).

Outreach/Communications Committee (OCC)

There have been some adjustments with the OCC and advisory leadership. This group will be working on messaging for awareness week.

If you are interested in joining a committee, email Bridgette Gemelli, Capacity Building Coordinator at bgemelli@mcd.org.

WHAT AN AMAZING OUTCOME!

CHW Annual Summit was such a success!

Guest Speakers

Lisa Renee Holderby Fox

Lisa Renee is an established leader and a proud member of the community health worker (CHW) workforce for over 30 years. She’s spent the past 25 years working to ensure CHWs are valued and respected members of the public health workforce. 

Dr. Puthiery Va

Dr. Puthiery Va was appointed as Director of the Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention (Maine CDC) in August 2023.

Auror Grant Wingate

Aurora works at the National Association of Community Health Workers (NACHW) as their Member and Partner Engagement Manager. In October of 2020, Aurora had the honor of joining NACHW as one of the first three staff members.

Heather Washburn

Heather is a Nationally Certified Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapist, and provides leadership trainings, critical incident responses, group and direct service to individuals, couples and families.

Award WINNERS!

CHW of the Year!

Alison Prior

Alison exemplifies the very essence of dedication, compassion, and innovation in her role as a Community Health Worker (CHW). With over two decades of personal and professional experience, Alison has consistently demonstrated an unwavering commitment to her patients, the community, and the pursuit of equitable healthcare. Alison embodies ownership in her work, approaching every challenge with determination and resilience.

Ally of the Year!

Mardochee Mbongi

Mardochee has consistently demonstrated an unwavering commitment to serving Immigrants community with compassion, empathy, and professionalism. Mardochee's dedication to empowering community members, advocating for their health needs, and bridging gaps in access to healthcare services, more likely to connecting them to resource relevant to the social determinants of health. He exemplifies the core values of a Community Health Worker

Supervisor of the Year

Betty St.Haliare

Betty is the epitome of what a supervisor should be. No matter how many projects and tasks she has going on, she always makes sure to make time for us. She is supportive of us as CHW's: encouraging us to take care of ourselves regularly, listening to our concerns, and supporting us when we are feeling overwhelmed or unsure. Betty is not just a CHW Supervisor, but she is a leader and a role model, for our team and for the community.

What is self-care? Self-care means taking the time to do things that help you live well and improve both your physical, health, and mental health. When it comes to your mental health, self-care can help you manage stress, lower your risk of illness, and increase your energy. Even small acts of self-care in your daily life can have a big impact. 

For more information, contact us at: info@mechw.org