WHEREAS, community health workers play a vital role in advancing access to quality healthcare for all Virginia communities by providing comprehensive care, culturally competent and linguistically appropriate health education, outreach, and support services; and

WHEREAS, community health workers are frontline public health workers with strong, trusting relationships within their communities, serving as liaisons between the health/social systems and citizens; and

WHEREAS, through lived experiences and training in mental health and chronic illness, community health workers can help improve the health and well-being of individuals and families; and

WHEREAS, Virginia recognizes the significant impact of community health workers in advancing public health initiatives, reducing healthcare costs, and improving health outcomes, particularly among underserved and marginalized populations; and

WHEREAS, Virginia Community Health Worker Awareness Week provides an opportunity to raise awareness about the invaluable role that community health workers play in connecting individuals and families to healthcare services, resources, and information, ultimately strengthening the fabric of our communities; and

WHEREAS, through efforts led by the Virginia Community Health Worker Association in collaboration with healthcare providers, community organizations, and government agencies, community health workers in Virginia foster partnerships and initiatives that enhance access to quality healthcare and promote health literacy among diverse populations; and

WHEREAS, by recognizing the third week of October as Virginia Community Health Worker Awareness Week, we honor and celebrate the dedication, compassion, and commitment of our over 300 certified community health workers and more than 1,400 natural community health workers serving communities across the Commonwealth by empowering individuals and communities to lead healthier lives and build a brighter future for all; and

WHEREAS, citizens are encouraged to recognize and appreciate the contributions of community health workers in advancing health access and improving the well-being of our communities;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Glenn Youngkin, do hereby recognize October 21-25, 2024, as VIRGINIA COMMUNITY HEALTH WORKER AWARENESS WEEK in our COMMONWEALTH OF VIRGINIA, and I call this observance to the attention of all our citizens.