Celebrating the Heart of Community Health: Health Impact Ohio Celebrates CHW Day 2026
By: Brittany Daniels, Director of Operations & Communications, Health Impact Ohio
Earlier this month, Health Impact Ohio proudly celebrated Community Health Worker (CHW) Day, with thoughtful conversation, creativity and relaxation -- to recognize the compassion, care, and lasting impact of Community Health Workers across Ohio.
The celebration provided an opportunity not only to honor the profession, but also to invest in the well-being of those who spend their careers caring for others. That sentiment was reflected by the State of Ohio, in a proclamation from Governor Mike DeWine, acknowledging June 6 as Community Health Worker Day in Ohio. The proclamation highlights the invaluable role CHWs play in improving health outcomes, building trust within communities, and connecting individuals and families to essential health and social services.
A highlight of HIO’s celebration was an engaging panel discussion centered on self-care and longevity in the CHW profession. Panelists shared personal experiences, practical wellness strategies, and insight on sustaining a meaningful career while navigating the emotional demands of service. The conversation reinforced an important message -- caring for yourself is essential to caring for your community.
Attendees were then invited to participate in interactive Self-Care Creation Stations, where they crafted their own body butter, bath salts, and custom tea blends. These hands-on activities encouraged them to prioritize wellness while providing simple tools they could incorporate into their everyday routines.
To further promote relaxation and restoration, participants had the opportunity to schedule onsite massage and reflexology appointments -- a well-deserved moment of rest reflecting the event’s commitment to honoring CHWs through action.
The day ended with a Talent Sharing Showcase, featuring poetry readings, karaoke, dancing, and an open mic that welcomed stories, music, and laughter. The performances highlighted the creativity, talent, and strong sense of community that define Ohio’s CHW workforce.
By combining recognition, professional reflection, wellness activities, and opportunities for connection, the event celebrated the important work CHWs do every day and the remarkable individuals behind the work.
As HIO continues its mission to strengthen Ohio’s public health workforce, events like Community Health Worker Day reinforce a simple but powerful truth: when Community Health Workers are supported, empowered, and celebrated, entire communities thrive.
Health Impact Ohio extends a special thank you to our CHW planning committee, who volunteered their time to bring together a beautiful day for CHWs, Supervisors, and staff to Relate, Release, and Relax.
