Meeting Families Where They Are: Community Health Workers

Community health workers are one of the best resources for parents-to-be, which is why many organizations are adding them to their teams. But have you ever wondered what exactly a community health worker does? Read on to learn who these professionals are and how they support families. 

Community health workers come from all different backgrounds, but share one defining characteristic across the board: they deeply understand the communities they serve. They understand the challenges these communities face, from housing instability to food insecurity. They also understand each community’s unique strengths and how those strengths can help families to thrive and flourish. 

As knowledgeable guides, community health workers help families navigate available health and social services. They are the friendly face of an overwhelming system, connecting families with the services they need and deserve in an authentic, compassionate manner. 

As skilled educators and advocates, community health workers are on the frontline, providing support for breastfeeding and safe sleep habits as well as teaching healthy practices for pregnancy, parenthood and more.  

They provide tactical support to families too, assisting in finding mental health services, food, cribs – even helping with housing. Community health workers find ways to meet families where they are and help them dream up and work towards their parenting and life goals. 

“I’m always trying to help the mom have that lightbulb moment, when they get it and see the path forward.”

Danielle Gentry, Community Health Worker, UC Health

That’s what makes community health workers special: their ability to build trusting relationships with families and truly support their clients with whatever their goals may be. 

At Cradle Cincinnati, we celebrate all community health workers as the glue that holds parents’ journeys together. Thanks to their professional knowledge and personal passion, many families are thriving in Hamilton County today.  

Interested in community health worker support? Reach out to the organizations below for more information. 

Cradle Cincinnati Connections: Call (513) 667-2157 or visit https://bit.ly/cradlecares.  

Health Care Access Now: Visit https://healthcareaccessnow.org.  

Healthy Moms & Babes: Visit https://www.healthymomsandbabes.org.  

Many prenatal health centers have community health workers on staff. Ask your doctor for a referral to get connected.