Community Engagement

Current Newsletter of Local Resources, Services and Events

What is the Community Engagement program?

The Community Engagement program aims to help the community recover from the COVID-19 pandemic with a focus on making sure everyone gets equitable health support. This program is funded by the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA). The program, which is jointly managed by the Community Services and Public Health and Environment departments, is comprised of Community Health Workers.

The Role of Community Health Workers

Community Health Workers are frontline public health workers who are trusted members of the community and have a deep understanding of the community's needs. This trusted relationship enables Community Health Workers to serve as a liaison/link/intermediary between health/social services and the community.

• They help connect the community with health and social services, making it easier for everyone to get the help they need.
• They also make sure the services are of good quality and respectful of different cultures.
• They help people learn more about staying healthy and taking care of themselves.

Community Health Workers help people within their communities by talking to people in the community, teaching about health, providing support, and speaking up for people when needed.

Projects and Initiatives

The Community Engagement Team is working to deepen relationships with cultural communities in Washington County. The team is working to connect residents from these communities with county and community programs and resources. 

The Community Engagement Team have focused its efforts on the following priority populations:

• Residents or populations experiencing disparities.
• Black indigenous and people of color (BIPOC) residents.
• People who speak other languages.
• Low-income residents.
• Residents utilizing county assistance programs.

The Community Engagement Team has been concentrating on forming connections and relationships with these important groups. They also take on opportunities to work together with other county initiatives that focus on equity, which involves projects and programs within Washington County and partnerships with community organizations.