The AfAHC Committee, Community Health Worker Black Affinity Group, is a transformative initiative dedicated to advancing health equity, addressing systemic disparities, and empowering Black communities through culturally relevant, sustainable, and inclusive health interventions. Rooted in the lived experiences and expertise of Black Community Health Workers (CHWs), this group serves as a vital bridge between healthcare systems and the communities they serve. Our mission is to create a supportive ecosystem where CHWs are recognized as essential leaders in health equity, equipped with the tools, resources, and opportunities to thrive professionally and make lasting impacts in their communities. 

The group’s initiatives, such as the Skin Deep: Melanin Matters Initiative and The Bridge to Equity Expo, coming soon, complement AfAHC’s existing programs like the Power RX Pharmacy, an exhibit creating more awareness about clinical trials and research, "Chop It Up: Black Box Edition" cooking demonstrations and food pantry partnerships, Sunnyside UP, a neighborhood community health initiative and so many more programs. Together, these efforts create a holistic approach to health equity, addressing both immediate needs and long-term systemic change.  

Program Activities:

1. Workforce Development & Professional Growth

   • Training & Credentialing: Offering tailored training programs, certifications (e.g., Certified Melanin Skin Health Educators), and workshops to enhance CHWs’ skills and expertise.

   • Leadership Pathways: Supporting career advancement and leadership opportunities within health systems and community organizations.

   • Mentorship Programs: Pairing experienced CHWs with newcomers to foster professional growth and knowledge sharing.  

2. Advocacy, Equity & Inclusion

   • Policy Engagement: Amplifying the voices of Black CHWs in decision-making processes to ensure fair pay, career mobility, and workplace inclusion.

   • Health Equity Initiatives: Addressing systemic racism and barriers to care through advocacy and community-centered solutions.

   • Cultural Pride & Identity: Honoring the heritage, resilience, and cultural wisdom of Black communities in all health interventions.  

3. Community Wellness & Sustainability

   • Resource Navigation: Developing comprehensive toolkits to assist CHWs in connecting individuals to essential resources like healthcare, housing, food security, and transportation.

   • Clinical Linkage to Care: Facilitating seamless transitions between community resources and clinical care to improve health outcomes.

   • Community Events: Hosting health fairs, wellness workshops, and outreach programs to engage residents and promote culturally responsive health initiatives.  

4. Collaborative Networks & Partnerships

   • CHW Hubs: Establishing peer support networks and resource-sharing hubs to strengthen collaboration among CHWs.

   • Educational Institutions: Partnering with universities and training programs to recruit and support recent graduates and current CHWs.

   • Community Organizations: Collaborating with local churches, community centers, and nonprofits to expand outreach and impact.

Community-Focused Impact:

The AfAHC Black CHW Affinity Group is deeply rooted in the communities we serve.

Our programs are designed to:

• Crush Health Disparities: Address the root causes of health inequities by providing targeted interventions and resources tailored to the needs of Black communities.  

• Enhance Access to Care: Simplify access to healthcare and social services through CHW-led navigation and clinical linkage programs.  

• Promote Resilience & Wellness: Support the physical, mental, and emotional well-being of CHWs and community members through self-care initiatives and wellness programs.  

Workforce Sustainability Plan:

To ensure long-term impact, the AfAHC Black CHW Affinity Group focuses on creating sustainable workforce options for CHWs, including:  

1. Solo Entrepreneurship  

   • Training CHWs to operate as independent consultants, providing services to healthcare organizations, nonprofits, and community groups.

2. Collaborative Networks  

   • Establishing CHW hubs that allow for peer support, resource sharing, and collective impact.  

3. Funding & Partnerships  

   • Securing grants, contracts, and partnerships with payors, healthcare systems, and community organizations to sustain CHW initiatives.  

4. Certification & Professional Development  

   • Offering Texas DSHS-approved certifications, such as the Certified Melanin Skin Health Educators (CMSHE) program, to enhance CHWs’ credentials and career opportunities.

Upcoming Initiatives:

1. Skin Deep: Melanin Matters Initiative  

   • A groundbreaking program designed to certify CHWs as Certified Melanin Skin Health Educators (CMSHE) with CEUs approved by the Texas DSHS. This initiative focuses on addressing the unique dermatological needs of melanin-rich skin.  

2. The Bridge to Equity Expo (Coming Soon)

   • A Social Determinants of Health Resource Fair bringing together over 100 organizations to address SDOH issues like housing, food security, and healthcare access.  

3. CHW Workforce Development Initiative  

   • A comprehensive program offering training, credentialing, and business development opportunities for CHWs. 

Join Us:

The AfAHC Black CHW Affinity Group invites community members, organizations, and stakeholders to join us in our mission to advance health equity and empower Black communities. Together, we can create a future where every individual has equitable access to health resources and opportunities.  Contact Us:  

• Email: afahchouston@gmail.com  

• Membership Dues & Donations: PayPal: afahchouston@gmail.com

Through collaboration, advocacy, and innovation, the AfAHC Black CHW Affinity Group is transforming health outcomes for Black communities, one connection at a time. Join us in building a healthier, more equitable future for all.