August 25–29, 2025 marks National Community Health Workers Awareness Week, a time to honor the frontline professionals who connect people to care and strengthen public health.
Community health workers (CHWs) are more than outreach staff—they are neighbors, advocates, and problem-solvers who guide people through complex healthcare systems, connect them to resources, and provide education that improves lives. Their work is especially vital in rural and underserved areas, where access to care can be limited.
The week is organized by the National Association of Community Health Workers (NACHW), which launched the observance to strengthen recognition of the profession and encourage investment in its future. Earlier this summer, members of Congress introduced a resolution officially acknowledging the contributions of CHWs, underscoring their importance at the national level.
This year’s theme, “Celebrating who we are, commemorating our achievements, and collaborating with equity,” highlights both the progress of the CHW movement and the ongoing push to ensure these professionals have the resources and support they need. A newly released report, Strengthening Public Health with Community Health Workers, emphasizes how CHWs improve outcomes in areas such as chronic disease management, prevention, and health education—while calling for sustainable funding to grow this workforce.
National CHW Awareness Week is not just about celebration—it is about recognition. It reminds us that true healthcare doesn’t only happen in hospitals or clinics. It happens in living rooms, schools, churches, and community centers—where CHWs meet people where they are and help them live healthier lives.
