Reading Hospital recently held its first National Community Health Worker (CHW) Awareness Week, recognizing the contributions of CHWs to health equity and patient outcomes. The hospital organized a series of events to highlight the importance of CHWs in supporting patients and strengthening local communities.
The Voices of Health Kickoff Ceremony drew over 50 leaders and attendees, including Valerie A. Arkoosh, Secretary of the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services; Kristen Rodack, Executive Deputy Secretary of the Pennsylvania Department of Health; Senator Judith L. Schwank; and Representative Johanny Cepeda-Freytiz. During the event, speakers highlighted the role of CHWs in addressing barriers to care and advancing health equity through personal stories. State leaders also pledged support for legislative priorities related to CHWs. Representative Cepeda-Freytiz closed the ceremony by presenting official certificates to CHWs in recognition of their service.
Other activities included poverty and re-entry simulations co-hosted with community partners. Over 90% of participants rated these sessions as outstanding, noting they gained empathy and practical strategies for addressing social determinants of health.
The Fuel Up for Fall Health & Wellness Fair at Reading Hospital brought together more than 50 attendees from various community-based organizations, hospital educators, and partner agencies. The event featured educational stations such as CPR demonstrations and wellness activities. During the fair, CHWs connected a family facing urgent needs with critical support services on site.
Through these initiatives, Reading Hospital strengthened collaborations with 22 community-based organizations and formed six new partnerships. More than 90% of participants reported learning new approaches to address social determinants of health.
“Many CHWs shared that, for the first time, they felt truly recognized and valued for their contributions,” according to organizers.
“This inaugural week reaffirmed that CHWs are catalysts for health equity and essential change agents within the communities they serve,” said event organizers. “Building on this momentum, Reading Hospital’s Health Equity Team will continue expanding CHW visibility and integration across care teams.”
The hospital acknowledged support from sponsors Genentech, Inc., Redner’s Markets, Inc., Centro Hispano, and Olivet Boys & Girls Club Oakbrook. Special recognition was given to Tanieka Mason, Director of Health Equity, and Juliet Simplicio, Supervisor of Health Equity at Tower Health.
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