Established 2016
Mission
To unify, promote and sustain the profession of Community Health Workers in the Commonwealth of Kentucky.
Purpose
Provide a unified association of community health workers in Kentucky with the purpose of spreading knowledge and advocating for recognition of CHWs and our communities.
Vision
Community Health Workers are recognized as professionals and work together to improve community health outcomes.
2026 KYACHW Meetings & Events
Each Year KYACHW hosts Quarterly Learning and Networking Events designed for members to collaborate, connect , grow and share resources. These events provide valuable opportunities for networking and learning, with two in-person events each year – Including our Annual Conference, which serves as our signature gathering. CEU’s are offered at all events, and members are encouraged to attend. Non-members are also welcome and may have an additional fee.
August 26-27
KYACHW 11th Annual Conference
Embassy Suites, Lexington KY
October 22
KYACHW Fourth Quarterly Meeting
Planning is officially underway for our 2026 KYACHW Annual Conference!!!
This conference will take place during National Community Health Worker Awareness Week, making it the perfect opportunity to celebrate, collaborate, and learn together across Kentucky.
about us
CHW’s have been effective in advocating for the community members of the state since 1988. The association view is CHW’s are the missing link between the healthcare provider and the client. This relationship plays a key role in improving the health of our communities.
What is a CHW?
A community health worker is a frontline public health worker who is a trusted member of and/or has unusually close understanding of the community served. This trusting relationship enables the worker to serve as a liaison link intermediary between health/social services and the community to facilitate access to services and improve the quality and cultural competence of service delivery.
A community health worker also builds individual and community capacity by increasing health knowledge and self sufficiency through a range of activities such as outreach, community education, informal counseling, social support and advocacy
KYACHW Member Spotlight!
Community Health Workers are the heart of Kentucky. We are proud to highlight and share the incredible work of KYACHW members across the state. Member submissions only! Not a member yet? Join Our Network to share your work and connect with CHW’s statewide!
What members can share:
Together We Are Stronger!
Become a Community Health Worker?
The Kentucky Office of Community Health Workers (KOCHW) serves as the official governing authority for Community Health Worker certification in Kentucky. KOCHW issues certification to individuals who meet established requirements, including successful demonstration of the eight core competencies through qualified training programs or documented work experience.
Let’s breakdown the difference: KOCHW & KYACHW
While both organizations work closely together to support Community Health Workers in Kentucky, each plays a powerful distinct role in your CHW journey.
KOCHW sets the standard through state-approved Certification and Trainings. Certification # begins with KCC. Re-certification fees due Oct. 31.
KYACHW builds community through connection, advocacy, and leadership. Membership dues paid seperately annually January-December