Community Health Worker Foundations: Core Skills for Frontline Practice

A practical, beginner-friendly foundations course that prepares learners for real-world Community Health Worker roles. The course covers CHW responsibilities, ethics, communication, cultural humility, vulnerable populations, social determinants of health, and collaborative approaches to care. Ideal for individuals entering the field and organizations training new CHWs.

  • Cohort Dates

    Aug 17 – Sep 21, 2026

  • Schedule

    Mon / Wed / Fri
    5:00 – 8:00 PM

  • Format

    Hybrid: Live Zoom + Self-Paced

  • Total Hours

    140 Hours
    100 Classroom + 40 Practicum

What You'll Learn

By the end of this course, you will be able to:
  • Describe the core role and responsibilities of a Community Health Worker
  • Apply ethical principles, boundaries, and confidentiality
  • Build trust with individuals, families, and communities
  • Recognize vulnerable populations and the barriers they face
  • Explain how Social Determinants of Health impact daily life
  • Support clients using communication, active listening, and motivational techniques
  • Navigate community resources and referral systems
  • Work collaboratively with clinics, CBOs, public health programs, and social services
  • Deliver culturally responsive, equity-driven support
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Course Format and Content

What's included?

Inside this course you'll find:

  • Online, self-paced modules
  • Scenario-based examples
  • Reflection activities
  • Knowledge checks
  • Downloadable worksheets & tools
  • Discussion forums
  • End-of-course assessment
  • Certificate of completion

Certificate of Completion

After completing all modules and assessments, you will receive the Maryland AHEC Training Academy Certificate of Completion: Community Health Worker Foundations.

This certificate can be used to:
  • Demonstrate essential CHW training
  • Strengthen your resume for CHW roles
  • Support employer onboarding or workforce development requirements
  • Complement state or organizational CHW certification pathways (where applicable)
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Who This Course Is For

This course is designed for:
  • Individuals beginning or exploring Community Health Worker careers
  • People already supporting their communities who want formal CHW training
  • Community-based organizations hiring or onboarding CHWs
  • Public health departments launching or expanding CHW programs
  • Workforce development partners preparing CHW cohorts
  • Students in public health, human services, or social work


No healthcare experience is required.
For Organizations

If you're training a team of CHWs, Maryland AHEC Training Academy offers:

  • Group Discounts
  • Administrative Data
  • Completion Tracking
  • Customizable Content
  • Cohort Pricing
  • Bulk Registration