Most of us can remember “that moment” that triggered our passion and set the foundation for that would lead us toward our life’s calling.
For Lillian Wald, credited with coining the term “Public Health Nurse” in 1883, it came after providing health care to a young girl’s mother in a dirty, dilapidated tenement in New York’s Lower East Side. Yet, as Ms. Wald dedicated her life to providing health care to the poor and often forgotten, I wonder if she knew how her own calling would lay the foundation for the entire field of community health.
In fact, a century later, Ms. Wald’s influence paved the way for two sisters to launch a legacy of change when they came together to create what is now MHP Salud, an organization that began simply to help migratory farmworkers access health services … yet became so successful in its grassroots approach that it has since grown to become a national leader in building the workforce of Community Health Workers – professionals who are often quiet heroes, bridging gaps and connecting dots so the most underserved among us can receive the quality health and social services we all deserve.
In celebration of Women’s History Month, it’s a privilege to honor the women who paved the way for community health work and the selfless, determined, trailblazing women who continue to shape the future today. The National Association of Community Health Workers reports approximately 88% of Community Health Workers (CHWs) are women – underscoring the crucial role women play in creating healthy, happy communities.
Sister Judith Mouch, one of MHP Salud’s founders, once said, “I always wanted to be a public health nurse, and I always wanted to work with the poor,” she said. “I’m not afraid to take risks; I like to think of different ways to change the situation.”
It’s a mantra we continue to uphold today.
If the need is there, we go. We go to change the situation, whether by helping community members find basic necessities and health services (nearly 100 percent of those we serve live on annual incomes less than $25,000) or by training the next generation of Community Health Workers to meet the growing need for a dedicated, qualified public health workforce.
Despite their significant impact on improving health outcomes across the country, Community Health Workers still often fly under the radar. But for the individuals, families and professionals that have found the support of a CHW, the difference is clear.
Every day, I hear inspiring stories of CHWs going above and beyond to find creative solutions to common health care challenges. Issues like financial literacy, language barriers, and lack of transportation often create fear and uncertainty, making regular screenings and medication management feel overwhelming. A CHW offers a trusted ear, expert guidance, and a cultural connection, helping patients navigate these challenges with confidence. This added support enables doctors and nurses to efficiently care for more patients, providing better outcomes for everyone involved.
I’m proud to advocate for this workforce, to bring solutions that lead to positive change for our communities and to celebrate the courageous, humble, strong women who paved the way for all of us to follow our calling in community health work. I encourage you to join me. Thank a Community Health Worker, advocate for funding and policy supporting Community Health Workers, or consider partnering with an organization like MHP Salud to offer apprenticeships to aspiring Community Health Workers.
The call is out there … let’s answer it.
By: Magaly “Maggie” Dante, Ph.D, LMHC