August 2023: Community Health Worker Appreciation Month

WHEREAS, reaching at-risk, under-resourced, or underserved communities is vital to improving the health of our state’s most vulnerable populations; and,

WHEREAS, community health workers build trusting relationships with residents and connect them to health and human service systems; and,

WHEREAS, more than 1,630 community health workers serve Michiganders by preventing and managing chronic conditions, developing healthier lifestyles, increasing rates of preventative screenings, and improving access to and use of health care and social services through outreach, enrollment, and patient education; and,

WHEREAS, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services has recognized community health workers as a priority within their Social Determinants of Health Strategy to support health equity; and,

WHEREAS, we encourage state officials, communities, and health and human service delivery agencies to participate with the Michigan Community Health Worker Alliance and its partners to honor and recognize the vital impact community health workers have in Michigan and the role they play as a professional workforce in the delivery of health and social services among populations in need; and,

WHEREAS, during this month, we honor and thank community health workers who build bridges between health and human service providers and community members;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Gretchen Whitmer, governor of Michigan, do hereby proclaim August 2023 as Community Health Worker Appreciation Month in Michigan.