Community Health Workers in Delaware

Community Health Workers (CHWs) embody the spirit of public health: a community-driven, health equity-focused workforce guided by justice and collaboration.They connect communities to preventive and life-saving care, promote healthy environments where all individuals can thrive, and help people stay healthier within their own communities.At their core, CHWs are a profession rooted in trust.As funding, services, and entire communities come under pressure, CHWs remain on the frontlines-standing up for the communities they come from and serve.In today's landscape, we are asking more and more of our CHW colleagues.In return, we must provide the support they need through sustainable funding and meaningful recognition of the value and impact they deliver every day.In Delaware, CHWs have long been part of the healthcare landscape, supporting individuals and families across hospital systems, Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs), community-based organizations, state agencies, and Medicaid Managed Care Organizations (MCOs).They have worked under various titles-such as Health Advocate, Navigator, Health Ambassador, and La Promotora-and have historically experienced differing levels of training and support.In 2019, the Community Health Workers Association of Delaware (CHWADE) was established by CHWs, for CHWs, with their communities at the center.CHWADE's mission is to collectively advocate, empower, educate, connect, and support Delaware communities to advance health equity, social justice, and optimal well-being.The organization is a collaborative network of CHWs, allies, and partners across the state, all committed to supporting CHWs and advancing this shared mission.Since then, CHWADE has grown significantly, achieving 501(c)(3) status in 2023 and building momentum for CHWs statewide.Years of collective effort have led to meaningful progress, including the passage of Senate Joint Resolution 2 (SJR 2) in 2025 and the launch of CHW certification in 2026.