The Nevada Community Health Worker Association (NVCHWA) reported significant growth in training, partnerships, and statewide reach in its 2025 Annual Impact Report, highlighting continued efforts to strengthen Nevada’s public health workforce—particularly in rural and underserved communities.
According to the report, NVCHWA graduated 319 community health workers (CHWs) in 2025 and delivered more than 600 hours of instruction through English- and Spanish-language cohorts offered statewide. The organization emphasized expanded access for rural and frontier learners, supported by hybrid and virtual training formats designed to reduce geographic barriers.
Community health workers serve as a bridge between residents and healthcare systems, helping individuals navigate services, access care, and connect with local resources. NVCHWA leadership said that role continues to grow in importance as healthcare systems face staffing shortages and access challenges.
“CHWs continue to support Nevada families by providing a bridge to health systems, resources, and trusted community care,” the report states.
The organization also highlighted strengthened partnerships with state agencies and healthcare providers, including collaborations with Intermountain Health, the Nevada Certification Board, and various community-based organizations. These partnerships have helped expand training opportunities and improve coordination across Nevada’s public health network.
Internally, NVCHWA reported improvements to its foundational training programs, including streamlined curriculum delivery in both English and Spanish and increased support for rural participants. The organization also completed an American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) mentorship grant, aimed at supporting workforce development.
Despite the progress, the report notes ongoing challenges facing the public health sector, including funding instability and workforce shortages. NVCHWA leaders pointed to continued demand for services, particularly in rural and frontier areas where access to care remains limited.
Public perception and understanding of community health workers also remain a hurdle, with the report noting that the role is sometimes overlooked despite its impact in clinics, schools, and community settings across the state.
Program Director Cody Wagner acknowledged both the challenges and the learning curve involved in leading the organization.
“I took on this role in August 2024, not really feeling qualified or knowledgeable about how to lead an organization like this,” Wagner said. “I still have a lot to learn and am very thankful for the support network around us.”
The report also highlights the broader demographic context driving the need for CHWs in Nevada. Approximately 23 percent of Clark County residents speak Spanish at home, while about half of the state’s population identifies as Black, Indigenous, or people of color. In addition, roughly 30 percent of Nevada households include children under 18.
NVCHWA officials say these factors underscore the importance of culturally responsive, community-based care models—particularly those that include bilingual training and outreach.
Statewide, the number of CHW credentials issued has more than doubled since 2020, reflecting growing demand for the workforce. The organization attributes that growth to increased training capacity and expanded access to certification pathways.
Looking ahead, NVCHWA leadership said the organization plans to continue building its training programs and partnerships while advocating for sustained public health funding.
“Together, we are building a brighter future for all Nevadans in public health,” the report states.
The association also encouraged community support through training scholarships, workforce partnerships, and advocacy for long-term investment in public health infrastructure.
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