Colette Lamothe-Galette Community Health Worker Institute
Are you passionate about making a positive impact on your community? Are you ready to embark on a rewarding journey that combines passion, knowledge, and service? Join us at the Colette Lamothe-Galette Community Health Worker Institute and discover the fulfilling role of a Community Health Worker (CHW).
The Colette Lamothe-Galette Community Health Worker Institute empowers individuals like you to become change-makers in public health. We believe in removing barriers to education, which is why we offer free training to aspiring CHWs.
When you complete our comprehensive training program, you'll receive a Certificate of Completion that can unlock doors to exciting career opportunities.
Community Health Workers are at the heart of public health. They bridge the gap between health care providers and the communities they serve.
As trusted members within their neighborhoods, CHWs play a pivotal role in promoting health, preventing diseases, and fostering well-being.
CHWs are dedicated to making sure everyone, especially those in underserved areas, get the health care and support they need.
What CHWs Do
Teach community residents about healthy behaviors like eating right, understanding health risks, and preventing disease.
Help community residents find doctors and health care services when they're sick.
Offer mental health and emotional support to community residents and connect them to the resources they need.
Support community residents with ongoing health problems and make sure they stick to their treatment plans.
Connect community residents to essential resources like food, housing, utilities assistance and other government benefit programs.
Understand the culture of their community and provide care that respects it.
Collect information to advocate and improve community health programs.
Why Become a CHW?
Make a Difference: CHWs advocate for healthier lifestyles and provide vital health information to empower individuals and families within their community.
Build Stronger Communities: By addressing social determinants of health, CHWs contribute to the creation of resilient and vibrant neighborhoods.
Career Opportunities: A career as a CHW opens doors to diverse opportunities in health care, social services, and community development.
CHW Training Program
Comprehensive Curriculum: Our training program is spread over 16-18 weeks and consists of 13 core competencies covered through 144 hours of classroom instruction and 240 hours of on-the-job-training. Classroom instruction is provided through our participating community college academic partners and covers a range of topics, including:
Health Education
Cultural Competency
Communication Skills
Community Outreach
Case Management
Experienced Instructors: You will learn valuable knowledge from industry professionals with years of practical experience.
Hands-On Experience: You will put your knowledge into practice through real-world simulations that prepare you to be a CHW.
This dynamic approach ensures you get the practical skills and knowledge needed to excel in your role as a CHW from day one.
How to Get Started
Registration for the CLGI is currently closed. Registration is expected to resume/will reopen after July 1, 2024. We thank you for your interest to protect the public's health, promote healthy communities, and continue to improve the quality of health care in New Jersey.
What Can I Do with My Certificate of Completion?
Your Certificate of Completion opens many possibilities in the workforce. You can take your skills to various job sectors, including:
State and Local Government
Clinics and Hospitals
Outpatient Care Centers
Insurance Companies
Nursing Care Facilities
Nonprofit Groups
Faith- and Community-Based Groups
You may even want to continue your education. It's important to note that you don't need a degree to become a Community Health Worker.
Contact Us
For help with the application process, or for more information about the institute, contact us at CLGI@doh.nj.gov
