Candidates should have completed CHW core competency training from an accredited training provider by the time the CHW Leadership Institute begins in February 2024. If you are currently enrolled in a training that will be completed by the end of January 2025, you may still apply and provide documentation from your training provider of enrollment and projected completion date. Preference will be given to candidates who have already completed training at the time of application.

You do not need to be certified to apply to the CHW Academy Leadership Institute. Certification is not available in Washington, DC, and we did not want any otherwise experienced CHW within that jurisdiction to feel they could not apply.   

Your application is not considered complete until we have received the items below.  

• Resume  

Please send a current resume. 

• Letters of Recommendation  

Please submit two (2) letters of recommendation from people who can provide evidence demonstrating why you are a good candidate for this leadership program geared toward experienced community health workers. 

If you are currently employed, at least one letter should be from an employer or supervisor. Letters can also come from people outside of those you work with through employment, such as representatives from volunteer work or community positions such as an advisory or community board. Select individuals who can attest to your leadership attributes and skills. 

• CHW Training Documentation  

Please share your Certificate of Completion from the entity where you received your initial CHW Core Skills training. If you no longer have a Certificate of Completion or transcript, you may substitute it with a letter from your employer confirming that you have completed training from an accredited CHW training provider

Letters of recommendation for a leadership program should highlight aspects of your character, abilities, and potential, focusing on qualities that demonstrate readiness for leadership growth. A strong letter will provide specific qualities that set you up for success, show that you have the potential to excel and grow in your career with the support of a leadership program. Additional examples information you might ask the individual to include are:  

• An example of a time when you demonstrated that you had the skills and qualities of a leader  

• Observations of how you have worked with or led others to complete a shared goal 

• Confirm your track record of effective CHW practice 

These are just suggestions and not requirements. We welcome other perspectives that might help the selection committee understand who you are as a CHW, and whether participation in the Leadership Institute will benefit not just you, but also the community that you serve. 

Please send the additional documents requested to [email protected], with subject line: Leadership Institute – Supplemental Application Documents