The 2021 Hawaiʻi Community Health Worker Association Summit: What to look forward to in 2022

On Friday, November 19, 2021, Hawaii’s community health workers (CHWs) and allies gathered at the virtual 2021 Hawaiʻi Community Health Worker Association Summit. Over 115 network members from across the state came together (virtually) with a desire and passion to strengthen the voices of our CHWs. The morning started off with a beautiful opening oli by Chauncey Hatico of HMSA followed by a captivating welcome by Dr. David Moskowitz of Navvis Healthcare. Dr. Moskowitz highlighted the importance of CHWs to our healthcare system and their pivotal contributions in responding to the COVID-19 pandemic. With over 74 CHW in attendance, the day continued into breakout sessions where CHWs gathered by county to discuss next steps in moving the CHW Association forward. The event reinvigorated the network and we look forward to the work ahead in 2022. 

The Association is seeking interested CHWs to join and help build on this exciting path of growth (sign up now)! Nominations are currently being accepted for CHWs looking to become more involved. Please help nominate CHWs to serve as the 2022 Leadership Council. Peer and self nominations are encouraged! Leadership council positions and descriptions can be found on the nomination forms. Nominations will begin on Wednesday December 9, 2021. A separate ballot for voting will open on Monday, December 20, 2021 and close on Monday, January 10, 2022.

Looking for other ways to get involved? The Association is seeking CHWs to join committees of the Association! Please fill out this sign up sheet  if you are a CHW interested in serving on a committee (or multiple committees). Recruitment is open to all CHWs and CHW students. 

You are invited! Senator Dru Kanuha’s office is hosting regular monthly meetings to discuss updates on establishing visibility and recognition for CHWs in Hawaiʻi. This meeting is open to all CHWs and advocates. Please contact Makamae Namahoe at makamae@hiphi.org if you would like to receive a calendar invite.

We thank all of you for the great work you are doing to protect the communities you serve.