About Us

History

What began as a visionary concept from our Leadership Team in partnership with the Vermont Department of Health (VDH), has blossomed into a dynamic and growing Association led by a dedicated Interim Board. Five original members have remained steadfast in their commitment, guiding the formation of the Vermont Association of Community Health Workers (VTACHW) with passion and purpose.

Together with VDH, we achieved a major milestone by completing a crosswalk of the three existing Core Competency Standards—paving the way for a unified standard that will elevate and support CHWs and employers across the state.

Our partnership with VDH has also empowered us to take the lead on a statewide working group of allies—formerly the Steering Committee—enhancing collaboration and strengthening the foundation of our Association. These vital relationships are fueling our growth and deepening our connection to the CHW workforce we are proud to represent.

VTACHW is building momentum on the national stage as well. Founding members Maddie Ruth and Deborah Locke Rousseau are active with the National Association of Community Health Workers (NACHW), helping expand our network, share resources, and bring national insight back to Vermont. Their leadership was spotlighted at NACHW’s 3rd Annual Capitol Hill Event this March, where they proudly represented CHWs from Vermont and across the country.

In collaboration with VDH, our Interim Board hosted Vermont’s first CHW Conference—a powerful day of learning, networking, and celebration that brought together CHWs from every corner of the state. This event marks just the beginning of what’s possible.

We’re especially proud that our Interim Board is made up of CHWs who are supported by their employers to lead this important work—an inspiring reflection of how Vermont is embracing and investing in the CHW role.Through continued support from the Blueprint for Health, trainings for CHWs and their supervisors are expanding, and providers across the state are turning to VTACHW as the trusted voice and champion for the CHW workforce.VTACHW is growing – and we’re just getting started.