October 2025 Newsletter

Dear Maine CHWs and Allies,

As the leaves begin to turn and the air grows crisp, the CHW Initiative is embracing the energy of fall—a season of reflection, renewal, and action. This time of year brings exciting momentum across our work: from upcoming advisory board elections that shape our collective future, to the continued efforts of our certification ensuring high standards and recognition for Community Health Workers across the State of Maine.

We’re proud to spotlight the voices through storytelling and leadership of our CHWs who are driving change in their communities and within our systems. Whether you're preparing to vote, serving on a committee/board, or simply staying engaged, your participation matters. Together, we’re building a stronger, more connected CHW workforce.

-MECHW Initiative Advisory Board

Storytelling Gift Card Winners

 The Awareness week winners will be announced during the October 28th MECHWI Monthly Meeting from 1:30-2:30pm.

You won't want to miss it!


You can still submit your stories, and if selected, you will receive a $25 gift card at the completion of your story.

Strategic Planning Committees

We are identifying the priority projects for the NEW Strategic Planning Committee to address first.

  • Certification
  • CHW Events
  • Story Board/Social Media
  • Leadership Training

If you are ready to jump into this important work, please reach out to Bridgette Dairyko bdairyko@mcd.org or Ben Hummel at benjamin.hummel@maine.gov. Thank you for your dedication to support the CHW workforce!

Leadership Opportunities

Certification


The certification process is now underway. The Blueprint Team has established the guidelines for taking the assessment. In preparation, the Question Writing Team will meet next week. Following that, the Question Review Team will convene to evaluate the questions created during the last week of October. Once these steps are complete, IC&RC, the credentialing organization, will begin preparing the final assessment and launch the testing phase.

If you are interested in joining the governing body for certification, please contact Bridgette Dairyko. bdairyko@mcd.org

MECHWI Advisor Elections


We’re excited to announce that elections for new Advisory Board members are just around the corner! The 2026 Advisory Board Election process will begin soon. Advisory Board members play a vital role in shaping our direction, offering strategic guidance, and representing the voices of our community. If you are interested in becoming an Advisor, please consider applying. More to come!


Stay Connected/Announcements

Meetings

MECHWI Monthly Meeting


MECHWI meets monthly. We share strategic updates; participants can network with other CHWs and learn from community programs and resources. All are welcome!


Next Monthly Meeting:

October 28th, 1:30-2:30pm


CHW Peer Support Group

The CHW Peer Support Group Meets Monthly!

Virtual meetings are held the 3rd Thursday of each month at 12:00pm.


The next group meeting is Oct. 15th from 12:00pm- 1:30pm

This is a peer group for CHWs ONLY, to:

  • Provide Support to each other.
  • Address Barriers
  • Share Resources
  • Discuss Concerns
  • Leadership Training


Monthly Lunch & Learn


Oct. 17th from 12:00pm-1:30 pm

Affordable Care Act Education!

Save the Date

MaineCare Forums Now Open!


The registration for MaineCare forums is now open. CHWs are some of targeted audiences to attend. Hear about MaineCare’s strategy for delivery system and rate reform, and updates on other important initiatives. 


MaineCare: Registration is Open for the MaineCare 2025 Delivery System Reform Forums 


 MaineCare offers three different venue options for training this year.



CHW Fall Core Competency

Oct. 23- Dec. 18

MCD Global Health is starting a new CHW Core Competency cohort this month.

For questions, please contact Cristina Leal (cleal@mcd.org). 


MCD's CHW apprenticeship program provides an opportunity for new and existing CHWs to develop professional skills through on-the-job training and continuing education provided by MCD’s training center. CHWs receive a CHW certificate from the Maine Dept. of Labor.



Throughout the program, CHWs have access to mentorship, support, and continuing education to further your skills.



Scholarship opportunities available now for CHWs and employers!


To register or more information, contact Makara Pollard, CHW Apprenticeship Coordinator, mpollard@mcd.org

Self-Care Tip

Crisp air, crunchy leaves, pumpkin spice, and all things cozy n good…fall has a lot to offer! These fall self care ideas are everything you need to chill.

What is self-care? Self-care means taking the time to do things that help you live well and improve both your physical, health, and mental health. When it comes to your mental health, self-care can help you manage stress, lower your risk of illness, and increase your energy. Even small acts of self-care in your daily life can have a big impact. 

Job Posting

Contact Us

Bridgette Dairyko

CHW Capacity Building Program Coordinator

bdairyko@mcd.org


For more information, contact us at: info@mechw.org