CHW Training Program – Q&A 

A Community Health Worker (CHW) is a trusted, frontline public health professional who comes from or has a deep connection to the community they serve. Through shared lived experience, culture, language, or local knowledge, CHWs build strong relationships that allow them to effectively support individuals and families.

The CHW model grew out of community-based traditions of care and was formalized to address long-standing inequities in access to health care and resources.

CHWs serve as a bridge between communities and health and social service systems. Through outreach, education, advocacy, informal counseling, and social support, they help reduce barriers to care, strengthen self-sufficiency, and ensure services are culturally responsive and community-centered.

In Texas, Community Health Worker (CHW) Certification is a voluntary credential overseen by the Texas Department of State Health Services that recognizes CHWs who have completed approved training and demonstrated core competencies.

Certification is important because it strengthens professional recognition, supports workforce development, and helps integrate CHWs into health care and community based settings. For CHWs, it can increase job opportunities and career pathways. For employers and partners, it ensures CHWs are trained while remaining grounded in lived experience and community knowledge.

This HFTX CHW Training Program is open to individuals age 16 and older. Applicants do not need prior CHW experience to apply.

Priority will be given to individuals who represent or are closely connected to the communities they serve, particularly those who have lived experience or are currently working in community based, nonprofit, health, or social service roles. Special consideration will also be given to applicants whose work or community involvement focuses on advancing maternal and child health and adolescent health.

• Must be at least 16-years of age
• Must be a Texas resident to certify through DSHS
  • Out of state participants are welcome to join the training program, but they will not be eligible to become a certified CHW in the state of Texas
• Must complete the enrollment application 
• Must receive an acceptance letter to the program
• Must sign the participant handbook
• Must pay the registration fee in full prior to the start of the course: scholarships and payment plans are considered on an individual basis

No prior health or community experience is required to apply. This training program is designed to support both individuals who are new to the CHW role and those who already have experience working in community, nonprofit, health, or social service settings.

Lived experience, connection to the community, and interest in advancing maternal and child health and adolescent health are highly valued and considered important strengths in this program.

All instruction reflects HFTX’s commitment to trauma-informed care, cultural humility, and strategies for broad engagement. Content is grounded in the lived realities of the communities CHWs serve, particularly adolescents, young adults, and families navigating maternal and reproductive health systems.

Participants access coursework through the HFTX Classroom learning management system, which houses readings, videos, assignments, discussion boards, and assessments. This allows for flexible learning while maintaining high expectations for participation and mastery.

All 9 Texas DSHS Core Competencies for CHWs are covered in the HFTX CHW Training Program:

1. Communication Skills
2. Interpersonal Skills and Relationship-Building
3. Service Coordination and Navigation Skills
4. Capacity-Building Skills
5. Advocacy Skills
6. Teaching and Education Skills
7. Organizational Skills
8. Knowledge Base on Specific Health Issues
9. Evaluation and Research Skills
   

The HFTX CHW Training Program is currently only offered in English

The HFTX CHW Training Program is 180-hours. Learners are given 18 weeks to complete the program.

The HFTX CHW Training Program is $675.

The CHW Training Program is offered online with two learning options. Participants may enroll in a fully asynchronous option, which allows them to complete coursework on their own schedule, or a blended online option that combines self-paced learning with live, instructor-led sessions.

For participants in the asynchronous option, scheduled office hours are available to provide opportunities for questions, clarification, and additional support.

In-person training options are planned for the future and will be offered in select regions where staff are available.

Participants in the Healthy Futures of Texas (HFTX) Community Health Worker (CHW) Training Program can expect a rigorous, supportive, and practice-based learning experience designed to prepare them for certification and for effective service in their communities.

The CHW classes are taught by members of our Training and Technical Assistance team. All instructors are Texas DSHS-certified Community Health Worker Instructors (CHW-Is) with experience supporting community based, nonprofit, and public health programs across Texas.

To earn official Community Health Worker certification in Texas, participants must complete a state-approved CHW training program and submit an application for certification through the Texas Department of State Health Services.

Our CHW training program is designed to support participants throughout this process. The training aligns with state requirements and provides clear guidance so participants understand what is needed to complete the program and move forward with certification.

Community Health Worker (CHW) certification in Texas is valid for two years. To remain certified, CHWs must complete required continuing education hours and submit a renewal application to the Texas Department of State Health Services before their certification expires.

Community Health Workers work in a wide range of settings across Texas. Employment opportunities are available with community based and nonprofit organizations, health clinics, hospitals, schools, public health agencies, and social service programs.

CHWs may support roles related to outreach, health education, care coordination, navigation, and advocacy.

The first CHW cohorts will begin in spring 2026, upon DSHS approval of the program.

Applications will open on the HFTX website in February.

Partial and full scholarships are available on a case-by-case basis, with limited funding generously provided by the Wellpoint Foundation.

Scholarship support is prioritized for individuals working in maternal and child health, as well as those who advocate for maternal, adolescent, and reproductive health. Scholarships are also available for young people who demonstrate a strong interest in pursuing work in these fields.

We are committed to expanding access for professionals, advocates, and emerging leaders dedicated to improving outcomes for women, children, and families.

Email: chw@healthyfutures-tx.org
Contact Person: Ana Belén Zelaya
Title: Program Manager