Understanding Promotoras and Community Health Workers

As our Home-Based Services team prepares to embark on their official Community Health Worker training with Washington State this September, you might be wondering: what exactly do these titles mean for the families we serve?

Here is a quick look at the unique, life-changing roles our team members play in the community.

What is a Promotora?

The term promotora goes far beyond a traditional job title; it is a role deeply rooted in culture, trust, and shared lived experience.

According to Visión y Compromiso, a national leader in the Promotora Model for Community Transformation, promotoras are fundamentally puentes de la comunidad—community bridges. Primarily a Latina women-led workforce, their work is characterized by servicio de corazón (service from the heart) and is driven by a deep passion for justice and equity.  

Because they come directly from the communities they serve, promotoras have a unique ability to build authentic relationships. Their role extends beyond basic health outreach; they actively connect historically under-resourced families with critical public health information, housing, education, and social services.  

What is a Community Health Worker (CHW)?

A Community Health Worker (CHW) is a recognized public health professional dedicated to improving access to care and bridging gaps in public health services across Washington State.  

The Washington State Department of Health supports this vital workforce through a free, specialized training program designed to elevate CHWs' knowledge and on-the-ground skills. Through the CHW Core Competency Course and specialized pediatric modules, these workers learn how to effectively communicate, establish strong relationships with families and healthcare partners, and serve as powerful advocates for their clients.  

CHWs are equipped with the professional tools to help clients navigate complex medical systems, address barriers to care, and make informed, preventative health decisions.  

The Best of Both Worlds at Manos Unidas

At Manos Unidas, our team beautifully blends these two concepts. Our team members bring the deep cultural trust, lived experience, and servicio de corazón of a traditional promotora, combined with the official, state-recognized expertise of a certified Community Health Worker.

By investing in their continued professional development, we ensure that our team has the absolute best tools to advocate for our community and help local families thrive!