What is a Community Health Worker?
Community Health Workers (CHW) advocate for wellness and healthy behaviors, serving as experts in health for their local communities through the implementation of various programs. In addition, they also serve as their community’s primary point of contact in gaining access to different health programs, especially for people with limited access. Learn more about the CHW profession through the resources below:
- Community Health Worker on Bureau of Labor Statistics
- Community Health Worker Overview from California Department of Healthcare Services
Both existing employees and new hires are eligible to participate in the CHW apprenticeship. This apprenticeship is registered with the U.S. Department of Labor and provides an opportunity for structured, on-the-job learning in roles such as community and social service specialists, social workers, health education specialists, and more.
By investing in apprenticeships, employers demonstrate their dedication to access, inclusion, and professional development, all while building a pipeline of talented professionals passionate about serving young people.
Interested in learning more? Fill out our interest form!
The Apprenticeship Commitment
Apprentices commit to at least 2,000 hours* of on-the-job learning concurrent with job duties, supplemented by at least 150 hours of related coursework.
*Existing employees may receive a signed endorsement verifying up to 1,000 hours of previous on-the-job learning.
What apprentices learn: The 165 hours of related training instruction are across nine distinctive modules, including Advocacy Skills, Trauma-Informed Care, Navigating Healthcare Systems, and more.
To learn more about becoming an employer that sponsors an apprentice in your organization or to learn about becoming an apprentice, schedule a conversation with a NIWL apprenticeship specialist by emailing apprenticeship@fhi360.org
A Week in the Life of an Apprentice
Each week, Community Health Worker Apprentices spend about 70% of their time completing tasks aligned with their jobs, 20% of their time on the job with their mentor, and 10% of their time completing related training.
