KS Community Health Worker Coalition
events & announcements
Stay in the loop – check out upcoming events, trainings and resources below!
Ongoing Trainings
KDHE CHW Motivational Interviewing Open-Practice
Join the Community Health Worker (CHW) team every third Friday of the month to advance your motivational interview skills. Sessions are virtual only and available in English and Spanish. Continuing Education Units (CEUs) are available for certified CHWs.
Motivational interviewing is a behavior-based approach opportunity to share challenging life situations, solve problems with other CHWs and leave feeling prepared and confident to meet with clients. It’s a time to share ideas and practice skills that will elevate your career pathway.
Plan to attend a virtual session if you are a CHW interested in:
-Learning skills to build trusting relationships with clients.
-Advancing communication techniques.
-Practicing reflective listening and providing summaries.
-Safe space for open practice discussions and role play.
Virtual Schedule
English Speakers
January 17, 2025 - December 19, 2025
11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Click Here to learn more and register register today!
Spanish Speakers
February 6, 2025 - December 4, 2025
1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m.
Click Here to learn more and register today!
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KDHE CHW Peer Group Meetings:
-Perinatal-Focused CHW Peer Group: If you are interested in attending these sessions, contact kelly.nightengale@ks.gov
-General CHW Peer Group: If you are interested in attending these sessions, contact kelly.nightengale@ks.gov
-Spanish-Speaking CHW Peer Group: If you are interested in attending these sessions, contact crystal.rodriguez@ks.gov
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Kansas Tobacco Cessation Help Online Training
Providers, Community Health Workers and other professionals can access the Kansas Tobacco Cessation Help (KaTCH) free self-directed training. It is structured into 7 learning modules, each ranging from 15 to 30 minutes. Modules include information on Kansas Tobacco Quitline benefits and programs, tobacco use and chronic conditions, and Quitline counseling call samples.
To access the resource, click here.
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Announcements
Share Your Voice - Participate in an Online Survey About Cancer Needs in Your Community
The University of Kansas Cancer Center is conducting an online survey about health and cancer-related needs in your community.
Your feedback will help improve cancer prevention services.
To participate in the study: You must be 18 years or older and live in Kansas or western Missouri, Click the link or scan the QR code provided. The survey should take 15-20 minutes, All survey participants will have the opportunity to enter a drawing to win a $100 electronic gift card.
Questions? Contact Dr. Leah Lambart at LLambart@kumc.edu
-To access the survey in English, click here.
-To access the survey in Spanish, click here.
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KDHE Healthy Aging Program Trainings Available
The Healthy Aging Program at Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) is looking for anyone who may have interest in becoming a trained leader for the Chronic Disease Self-Management Program (CDSMP), Chronic Pain Self-Management Program (CPSMP), Diabetes Self-Management Program (DSMP), or Walk With Ease (WWE). A brief overview of each of these programs and the training requirements for each are below.
-Chronic Disease Self-Management Program (CDSMP) - A program for those living with one or more physical or mental health chronic condition to learn to manage their conditions through exercise, healthy eating, symptom management, weight loss, and communication skills. (7-week training, 2.5 hours/week) - Length – 6 weeks, one 2.5-hour session each week, Delivered by – 2 trained peer facilitators
-Diabetes Self-Management Program (DSMP)- A program for adults living with Type 2 Diabetes where they learn to manage their diabetes through exercise, healthy eating, symptom management, weight loss, communication skills, how to manage sick days, importance of glucose monitoring, and necessary tests. (You must be a trained CDSMP facilitator, then the cross-training is a 3 hour/one day online class) -Length – 6 weeks, one 2.5-hour session each week, Delivered by – 2 trained peer facilitators
-Chronic Pain Self-Management Program (CPSMP) - A program that allows a small group of participants learn to manage their pain by exercise, healthy eating, and cognitive pain management. (You must be a trained CDSMP facilitator, then the training is a 3 hour/one day online class). - Length – 6 weeks, one 2.5-hour session each week, Delivered by – 2 trained peer facilitators
-Walk With Ease (WWE) - A program intended to help individuals improve their mobility and reduce pain. (3-6-week self-paced training through the Arthritis Foundation) - Length – 6 weeks with 3 1-hour session each week, Delivered by – Either self-directed or with a trained leader.
If you are interested in learning more about any of these programs, or how to become a trained leader, please contact the Healthy Aging Program Manager, Claira Pecha at claira.pecha@ks.gov.
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Kansas Respite for Alzheimer's & Dementia Program
Qualifying dementia caregivers can receive financial aid to support them in their caregiving journey.
The $1,000 can be used on adult day care, overnight care, in-home care, and homemaker services. Applications can be obtained through your local AAA office.
To determine if your local AAA is accepting applications, call 1-855-200-2372.
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Free 40 Hour Medical Interpreter Training Available
Do you Interpret for clients as a Community Health worker? Do you need tools to interpret effectively with confidence? Join our free, 40 hour Medical Interpreter Training.
-In person training with hands-on activities.
-Travel support is available.
-Spots are limited for each session
You will learn: Fundamentals of Community & Medical Interpreting, Cultural Competence & Mediation Strategies, CHW/Interpreter dual role management, Practical Interpreting Skills & Protocols, Professionalism, Advocacy & Self-care
Upcoming sessions in June. For more information, contact amirasneira@kumc.edu or birgit.lemke@ks.gov.
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Resources
For more resources, check out our Resource Library by clicking here: Resource Library.
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UMHMF New Brief: How Recent Federal Changes will impact Marketplace Insurance in Kansas
Check out the recent research brief shared by the United Methodist Health Ministry Fund that highlight how recent federal changes will impact access to Marketplace health insurance in Kansas. To read it, click here.
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Public Health Communications Collaborative Academy Courses Available
The Public Health Communications Collaborative (PHCC) Academy is a free training hub to support public health communicators around the country. The Academy equips public health professionals with the confidence and competence to communicate effectively with their communities.
Courses available: Creating a Plan: Crisis Communication for Public Health, Communicating for Change: Strategic Communications for Public Health, Strengthening Public Health Communication through Community Engagement
For more information, click here.
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Mental Health & Suicide Prevention Education Resources available for CHWs
Suspenders4Hope Online Trainings. Questions? Contact Marci Young at Marci.Young@wichita.edu.
DCCCA Suicide Prevention Trainings. Questions? Contact Lydia Fuqua at LFuqua@dccca.org
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Wichita State University Community Health Worker Training Available
Join the Community Health Worker (CHW) Education &Training Program offered by the WSU Community Engagement Institute!
Open to CHWs, CHAs, CHRs, Care Coordinators & Promotoras de Salud. For a copy of the flyer, click here. To learn more or to register, click here.
Questions? Email us at cphi@wichita.edu
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Maternal Mental Health Certificate Program - Scholarships Available
The Maternal Mental Health Certificate Training for Mental Health and Clinical Professionals is an online webinar series that includes nine live sessions, small group discussions, supplemental reading materials, 18 continuing education credits (where applicable), and a certificate of completion. A limited number of full scholarships will be provided to clinicians working for non-profit organizations with a net annual revenue of less than $500,000 that provide direct service to mothers who may be suffering from MMH disorders. For more information, click here.
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CHW Financial Sustainability Toolkit Available in Spanish
The CHW Financial Sustainability Planning Toolkit, created by envision in collaboration with national experts, is a comprehensive resource designed to help CHWs and CHW allies achieve financial sustainability.
While initially developed for recipients funded under the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) initiative CHWs for COVID Response and Resilient Communities (CCR), it has since been adapted to support all CHWs and CHW allies, regardless of their current funding situation.
The Toolkit addresses the complex challenges of CHW workforce sustainability and emphasizes the importance of relationships and relationship-building as a key strategy for advancing financial sustainability goals.
To access the toolkit, click here.
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Housing Specialist Training Series Available
Learn how to access resources and understand systems for unhoused clients.
To access the trainings, click here.
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NACHW What Works Toolkit Series
What Works Toolkit Series explored CHWs’ experiences and perspectives on “what works” in CHW-led approaches and innovations serving four populations experiencing substantial health burdens and service gaps: people in re-entry, people experiencing homelessness, Native Americans/Alaska Natives, and Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders.
In these toolkits, you can find CHWs' most effective and innovative approaches when promoting health in their communities. You can use these toolkits in a variety of ways, such as to assist you in programming or to help you advocate or validate your approaches of interest to your team.
To access the toolkit series, click here.
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Age-Friendly Public Health System 6Cs Training & Implementation Guide
This guide is designed to increase your knowledge and expertise in understanding the public health roles in improving and supporting older adult health and well-being at all levels, with the goal of creating a jurisdictional-wide action plan for implementing policies and programs that align with the Framework.
To access the resource, click here.
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Educational Series About Blood Cancers & Existing Resources and Services for Patients, Survivors, & Caregivers - Modules Offered Entirely in Spanish
For more information or to access the modules, click here.
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HRSA Men’s Health Month Resources
June marks Men’s Health Month, a time to encourage boys and men to prioritize their health and well-being. Men are often less likely to visit the doctor, but regular checkups and preventive care can make a life-saving difference.
At HRSA, we support men’s health through a range of programs and services designed to improve access to care, prioritize preventive services, and improve men’s health outcomes.
Through our health centers, we provide affordable, high-quality primary care, including cancer screenings, blood pressure monitoring, and mental health and substance use services.
This month, we encourage men to schedule a checkup or screening with a trusted health care provider. Let’s work together to empower men to get the services they need to live longer, healthier lives. To find a health center near you, click here.
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Community Behavioral Health Training Available
This 80-hour in-person training will provide Community Health Workers with specialized skills in behavioral health and substance use disorders.
This is interactive training that provides applied knowledge to help you better serve clients.
To participate in this training, you must meet the following eligibility criteria:
-Community Health Worker (regardless of certification status)
-18 years or older
-At least a GED or high school diploma
-Must be able to pass a background check
-Preference will be given to residents of Cowley, Reno, Sumner, and Sedgwick counties
Participants who complete all 80 hours of the four-week live online training will be eligible to receive $1,000.
For more information or to apply, click here.
Questions? Contact ascott22@kumc.edu.
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CDC’s New Mental Health Data Channel
The CDC has launched a new Public Health Data Channel offering a comprehensive look at mental health trends among U.S. youth and adults. Designed for public health professionals, the tool aggregates national and state-level data to inform strategies that improve mental well-being. To access the resource, click here.
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Lupus Sustainable Education (PULSE) Project Free Resources
This initiative offers valuable resources for CHWs as they engage with individuals living with lupus.
Two resources from the Lupus Foundation of America (LFA) may be particularly helpful as CHWs support individuals with lupus. The first is a set of self-management guides specifically designed for individuals with lupus who may have low health literacy or limited access to technology. These guides provide practical tools to help individuals manage their lupus symptoms and reduce stress between doctor’s visits.
The second resource is a set of referral cards for LFA’s self-management app, SELF. This app is a comprehensive tool that helps people with lupus assess their readiness to manage their condition and provides education on managing symptoms, stress, medications, and collaborating with healthcare providers.
The paper guides can be ordered here, and the referral cards for the SELF app are available here. If you have questions or would like more information, please contact the Eric Johnson, Public Health Consultant (johnson@lupus.org).
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HRSA National Maternal Mental Health Hotline
Help spread the word about HRSA’s National Maternal Mental Health Hotline (1-833-TLC-MAMA)—a free and confidential service offering 24/7 support via call or text to new and expecting moms and their loved ones.
The Hotline’s trained counselors help thousands of women and their families needing emotional support during or after pregnancy.
The Hotline is available in English and Spanish and offers interpreters in more than 60 languages.
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Alce su Voz Publishes Clinician Education Videos on Caring for Patients with Non-English Language Preference
Do you want to be prepared to care for patients with non-English language preference? Alce su Voz’s professional development videos examine the best practices for the care of linguistically diverse patients, clinician language proficiency testing, and clinician language self-assessment.
To access video, click here.
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Aimee Virtual Health Service
Your doctor’s office, now in your community center.
How it works:
-Schedule an appointment: Email or call to schedule an appointment at buildandrebuildaimee1751@gmail.com or 316-765-2911
-Get connected: Our Community Health Worker will guide you through the process and connect you with a provider.
-Receive Care: Speak to a licensed healthcare professional for your medical concerns and prescriptions.
Benefits:
-FREE urgent care visits, primary care visits, and mental health coaching session for the next 3 months
-Convenient location
-Services for common illnesses to chronic condition management
-Our trained Community Health Workers are here to assist every step of the way
If you sign up, choose “Project Access” or “Stand Together Wichita” on the question of who referred you.
For more information, check out https://seeaimee.com/ or click here for the flyer.
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Food Allergy Xchange: Free Training
Make a positive impact in your community with FARE’s Food Allergy Xchange (FAX). This online, one-hour training covers food allergy basics and everyday management, allowing you to support and educate those in your community impacted by this life-threatening disease.
Receive a certificate of completion after successfully passing the course. You can then join a live, virtual train-the-trainer session, offered multiple times throughout the year.
To access the free training, go to foodallergyacademy.org, sign up for a free account, search for Food Allergy Xchange.
Questions: Email mmalloy@foodallergy.org
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envision Resources:
To access the resources, click below.
-CHW Financial Sustainability Toolkit
-CHW Sustainability Quickstart Guide
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Avian Flu and Your Safety Guidance Flyer: Click Here
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Resources for helping families and children to might be impacted by immigrant deportation shared by KSDE
To access the resources, click below.
-AFT American Federation of Teachers
-AASA The School Superintendents Association
-Sample Resources - Montgomery County, MD, Public Schools
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New Trainings Available on the DHSS CHW Webpage
Cancer and the Community Health Worker: As a result of this training, you will become familiar with the different types of cancer, screening options, and prevention strategies. Recognize the important role Community Health Workers have in cancer awareness, resources during and after treatment, information on screening, and prevention. There are nine trainings for a completion status. (New trainings are listed at the bottom of the page here)
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NACHW Post Presidential Election Self-Care Tips
Regardless of how you vote, election season can be very emotionally intense, especially when we are constantly bombarded by information on our TVs, Radio, Social Media, and even every day small talk. Prioritizing your mental health when so much is at steak is imperative. The NACHW has compiled some tips for you from the American Psychology Association and Psychology Today.
-Take breaks from the news and social media and practice grounding exercises to stay present.
-Connect with supportive friends or family, and if possible, get outside for fresh air and/or light exercise.
-Prioritize sleep, healthy meals and hydration.
-Engage in hobbies that bring you joy.
-Remain optimistic and see the challenges ahead as opportunities for growth, action and constant improvement.
Remember that the only constant is change, and to reach out if you feel the need to. If you are interested in in reading more about Election Stress and Anxiety follow these links:
-12 Ways to Manage Election Stress and Anxiety | Psychology Today
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CDC Launches Accessible Resources on Emergency Preparedness for People with Disabilities
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National Suicide Prevention Month Resources:
-988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
-Suicide Prevention Resource Center (SPRC)
-2024 National Strategy for Suicide Prevention and Federal Action Plan
-SAMHSA’s Suicide Prevention Initiatives
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Sedgwick County Food Resources & Opportunities
Through the Sedgwick County Health Department’s Community Health Improvement Plan, partners from community organizations have developed a comprehensive list of food resources and opportunities in Sedgwick County. You can access these resources on the Health & Wellness Coalition’s webpage To access the resource, click here.
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Medicaid Adult Dental Coverage Checker Resource
Kansas improved again this year in the Medicaid Adult Dental Coverage Checker! The Coverage Checker is an interactive tool for policymakers, administrators, and advocates. To access the resource, click here.
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Kansas Department of Commerce Housing Resource
Affordable, quality and accessible housing are critical to growing the Kansas economy and improving the quality of life in our state.
The Kansas Department of Commerce is working with the Kansas Housing Resources Corporation, USDA-Rural Development, and Federal Home Loan Bank to ensure the state has enough good quality and affordable housing for all Kansans.
The State of Kansas and the Federal Government have various programs to assist individuals; developers; cities, counties, non-profits; and lenders to meet their housing needs.
To learn more, click here.
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National CHW Awareness Week Toolkit is Live
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Cardea Training Center - Free online trainings for CHWs
Check out these free online trainings for CHWs available through the Cardea Training Center.
For more information, click here.
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Free Training from Food Allergy Research & Education (FARE)
Make a positive impact in your community with FARE’s Food Allergy Xchange (FAX). This online, on-demand training covers food allergy basics and everyday management – allowing you to support and educate those in your community impacted by this life-threatening disease. The training takes about one hour, and a certificate of completion is given.
To access FAX:
-Go to foodallergyacademy.org
-Set up a free account
-Search for Food Allergy Xchange
Questions? Email: mmalloy@foodallergy.org For more information, click here.
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CDC Train: Emergency Preparedness Training for CHWs
This 10-hour series is designed to prepare community health workers to take an active role in disaster response and recovery in their communities.
This includes an introduction to Public Health Emergency Preparedness and Response (PHEPR) and PHEPR Science, the importance of collaborative disaster response, understanding the social determinants of health and individuals most vulnerable during disasters, developing a comprehensive disaster communication plan, and caring for oneself and others.
The following courses are required for this certificate. It is highly recommended that you watch the courses in the order listed. Times are approximate:
1. Public Health Implications of Hazards and Disaster Research CONVERGE Training Module. Requires additional account creation. Please complete ONLY Lesson 1: Public Health and Disasters (0.75 hrs)
2. An Overview of Emergency Public Health Preparedness and Response (1.5 hrs)
3. Stronger Community, Better Response Connecting Community Organizations During Disaster (0.1 hrs)
4. Addressing SDOH Issues for Essential Workers in Emergency Management (1.0 hrs)
5. Creating Communication Strategies for Emergencies (1.0 hrs)
6. Who Depends on You? - Preparedness for Everyone + Older, Adults, Limited Mobility, and Functional Needs (1.5 hrs)
7. Community Asset Mapping with National Center for Farmworker Health (1.0 hrs)
8. Introduction to Outreach Methods and Strategies. Requires additional account creation. (1.5 hrs)
9. MACHW Workshops: Self Care, Caring for Ourselves and Others. Requires additional account creation. (1.5 hrs)
For more information, click here.
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Double Food Bucks & Other Food Assistance Program Resources
The Double Up Food Bucks program allows SNAP recipients who shop at participating locations to increase the value of their SNAP dollars and buy more fresh fruits and vegetables. There is no cost or registration required to participate.
-Request printed copies of the brochures using this form. They are available in both English and Spanish, and will be mailed to you. OR...
-Download digital versions of the program brochures.
-Learn more at doubleupheartland.org.
Additional resources for groceries or meals—
-Summer Meals for Kids Site Finder: Summer Meals for Kids Site Finder | Food and Nutrition Service (usda.gov)
-Missouri Summer Food Sites: https://mohealth.maps.arcgis.com/apps/webappviewer/index.html?id=e89c2f89598f4475a8a98ca5b7919157
-New Summer Grocery Program in Kansas: New Summer Grocery Program in Kansas (ksal.com)
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Kansas Breastfeeding Friendly Child Care Provider Designation Cards Available
Kansas Breastfeeding Friendly Child Care Provider Designation cards are now available. Click here to find these and more supplies.
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Missouri Dept. of Health & Senior Services: Best Practices for Community Health Worker Program Referrals
-Best Practices for Community Health Worker Program Referrals
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SNAP & Food Resources Available
-Food Resources - Sedgwick County
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Do you have long COVID? You may be eligible for a research study
-Researchers are studying possible treatments for adults who have Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS) symptoms related to Long COVID.
-POTS causes a number of autonomic dysfunction symptoms like fast heart rate, dizziness, and fatigue when standing up from sitting or lying down.
-We want to learn if a study drug and lifestyle changes can improve daily functioning for people with ongoing symptoms after a COVID infection.
With your help, we can better understand Long COVID. No health insurance is required. Participants will be paid for their time.
For more information, click here.
Job Postings
Care Management Support Coordinator II, Centene Corporation
Position Purpose: Supports administrative care management activities including performing outreach, answering inbound calls, and scheduling services. Serves as a point of contact to members, providers, and staff to resolve issues and documents member records in accordance with current state and regulatory guidelines.
For more information or to apply, click here.
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West Plains District Family & Consumer Sciences Agent, K-State Research & Extension, Garden City, KS
Extension agents are professional educators, community connectors and innovators who serve as a link between Kansas State University and communities across Kansas. Agents are jointly responsible to the director of K‑State Extension (represented by a designated administrator) and the local extension board.
For more information or to apply, click here.
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