How Community Health Workers Are Changing Lives in Lawrence, Kansas

Imagine facing the challenge of finding stable housing, struggling to put food on the table, or trying to navigate the complex healthcare system. For many in our community, these challenges are a daily reality. 

Healthcare isn’t just about what happens during a doctor’s visit—it’s about addressing the many factors that influence our well-being. That’s where Community Health Workers (CHWs) come in.

Heartland’s CHWs provide the guidance and support needed to overcome these barriers.

“We help people navigate the systems that might be overwhelming or unfamiliar to them,” explains Kodee, a CHW at Heartland. They emphasize the importance of meeting people where they are, offering not just resources but also reassurance and empowerment.

“Some people vocalize feeling inadequate that they needed to ask for help to do something that most of us might take for granted,” Kodee says.

Beyond Healthcare: Addressing Social Drivers of Health

The work of Heartland’s CHWs goes beyond medical care. They understand that health is influenced by where we live, work, learn, and play—factors known as social drivers of health. Whether it’s connecting someone with stable housing, ensuring access to nutritious food, or enrolling a child in early education programs, CHWs are dedicated to addressing the broader issues that affect a person’s well-being.

“Being able to empower the person to self-advocate is the reward,” Kodee notes, highlighting the impact of their work in fostering self-sufficiency and confidence among those they assist.

Supporting Early Childhood Development

At Panda Pediatrics, Heartland’s Early Childhood CHWs focus on the youngest members of the community. They provide crucial support to families, ensuring that children have the best possible start in life. From educating parents about developmental milestones to helping families access well-child exams, dental care, and behavioral health services, these CHWs are dedicated to helping every child thrive.

A Collaborative Effort

The success of Heartland’s CHW program is deeply rooted in collaboration with community partners. Organizations like the Homeless Resource Center, Lawrence Community Shelter, LINK, and the Early Childhood Program at Kennedy (USD 497) work hand-in-hand with Heartland’s CHWs to ensure that everyone has access to the care they need.

“Our community partners are essential to our work,” Kodee explains. “Without them, we wouldn’t be able to reach as many people or provide the comprehensive support that we do.”

Building a Healthier, More Resilient Community

At the heart of the CHW program is a commitment to building a healthier, more resilient community. By addressing the social determinants of health, CHWs help prevent minor issues from becoming chronic problems. They empower individuals to take control of their health and well-being, providing the tools and support needed to make lasting changes.

“That’s where we come in to do that intervention so they can basically move on with their life,” Kodee says. Whether it’s helping someone avoid repeated ER visits or ensuring a child’s developmental needs are met, the impact of Heartland’s CHWs is profound.

Celebrating National Community Health Worker Awareness Week

As we celebrate National Community Health Worker Awareness Week, we honor the dedication and compassion of Heartland’s CHWs. Their work is making a tangible difference in the lives of individuals and families across our community. By addressing the full spectrum of factors that influence health, Heartland’s CHWs are helping to create a brighter, healthier future for everyone.