Community-Based Workforce Development
Accountable Communities of Health (ACHs) strengthen the community-based workforce — trusted messengers and professionals rooted in the community — and the network of partners that employ them.
ACHs lead coordinated, statewide workforce development strategies, providing standardized structured training, certification, long-term career pathways, technical assistance, and data-sharing. Community-based workers provide culturally responsive and in-language support to diverse communities across Washington. ACHs also provide connection and networking opportunities.
Why this works
Culturally appropriate support
By contracting with and building the capacity of diverse community-based organizations, ACHs help strengthen a culturally and linguistically diverse workforce rooted in the communities they serve — communities often experiencing barriers to receiving quality care and the highest rates of health disparities.
Expertise rooted in community
Community-based organizations and workers are experts at providing culturally and linguistically appropriate care that respects the dignity, lived experiences and perspectives of each person. ACHs allow their expertise to go further and reach more people.
Infrastructure for consistent care coordination
Regional ACHs means statewide coverage with on-the-ground expertise in each community's specific vulnerabilities, assets, and needs — no single agency has that breadth and depth. ACHs support the organizations already serving communities in their regions.