Hawai‘i Community Health Worker Association Celebrates Community Health Workers from Hawai‘i to Ohio!

The Hawai‘i Community Health Worker Association (HICHWA) has been hard at work connecting with Community Health Workers (CHWs) from the statewide HICHWA regional meetings to the National Association of Community Health Worker (NACHW) Unity Conference, held this year  in Columbus, Ohio. Here’s a look back at this exciting journey!

2025 Hawai‘i Community Health Worker Association Regional Meetings

The HICHWA Leadership Council, Coordinator, and Hawai‘i Public Health Institute’s CHW team traveled to each island to meet CHWs in their communities. Regional meetings provided a space for CHWs to gather, share stories, discuss challenges, network and identify ways HICHWA can further support the workforce.

Hawai‘i Island: In June 2025, HICHWA began the first regional meeting on Hawai‘i Island, connecting with CHWs in Hilo and Kona.

Maui County: Meetings continued in Maui County, engaging with CHWs from Maui, Lāna‘i, and Moloka‘i.

O‘ahu: Regional meetings on O‘ahu kicked off in Honolulu and Kapolei at the end of June and the beginning of July 2025. 

Kaua‘i: Regional meetings concluded on Kaua‘i.

Attending the 2025 National Association of Community Health Worker Unity Conference

After wrapping up the regional meetings, HICHWA Leadership Council and Hawai‘i CHWs traveled to Columbus, Ohio, for the 2025 NACHW Unity Conference. This year’s conference featured the annual meeting and an interactive session designed for CHWs and allies making a difference. The theme was “From Legacy to Leadership: Healing and Transforming Communities Together.”

Celebrating Hawai‘i CHW Awareness Month

After returning to Hawai‘i from Ohio, HICHWA immediately launched into celebrating CHW Awareness Month. Governor Josh Green proclaimed August 2025 as CHW Awareness Month in Hawai‘i, highlighting CHWs’ contributions to public health, healthcare delivery, community wellness, and significant events including the COVID-19 pandemic and the Maui Fires. Read the full proclamation here.

HICHWA also marked the occasion with an ‘Ōlelo Public Service Announcement (PSA) created by HICHWA Coordinator, Chauncey Hatico, highlighting the integral roles of CHWs and HICHWA’s ongoing support for them. 

Throughout August, HICHWA shared additional videos and photos to continue celebrating Hawai‘i’s CHWs. Visit @HawaiiCHWA on Instagram and Facebook to view them.

CHW Achievements Across Hawai‘i

From statewide regional meetings to the national stage in Ohio, HICHWA has demonstrated the power of connection, learning, and recognition for Hawai‘i CHWs. These efforts highlight the dedication, expertise, and impact of CHWs across the islands, strengthening their capacity to support communities, advance public health, and inspire future leaders in the field.

STAY CONNECTED

• Website: hichw.org — Learn about upcoming CHW-only meetings, committee opportunities, and training resources.
• Follow: @HawaiiCHWA on Instagram and Facebook for the latest CHW news and community highlights.
• Join our listserv: Receive monthly newsletters, event invitations, and additional resources straight to your inbox.
• Get in touch: Interested in supporting CHWs across Hawai‘i? Contact info@hichw.org.