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CHW Integration to Improve Equity

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CHW Integration to Improve Equity

CHW Integration to Improve Equity (CITIE) 

CHWs serve as liaisons, advocates, educators, and support systems to empower community members in taking control of their health and well-being. CITIE is an innovative, collaborative initiative that aims to address health disparities by training and integrating CHWs in communities that have been disproportionately burdened by health inequities.

Expected Long-Term Outcomes

  •        Improved health literacy and self-care practices within the community.
  •        Increased utilization of healthcare services and timely interventions.
  •        Reduced health disparities and improved health outcomes.
  •        Strengthened community connections, resilience, and empowerment.
  •        Raised awareness and advocacy for policy changes that address health inequities.

Learn More About CITIE Projects

  • Southeast Michigan Senior Resource Center

    The Southeast Michigan Senior Regional Collaborative (SRC) is using their CITIE funding to create a collaborative framework for advocacy, diversity, awareness, and action that addresses the safety and quality of life for older adults, individuals with disabilities and caregivers in Southeast Michigan.

    Throughout the project period, SRC CHWs will receive training and professional development opportunities to enhance their capabilities, fostering leadership development, and strengthening connections. They will assess the ongoing needs of the SRC network in addressing the social determinants of health that impact chronic disease among older adults, individuals with disabilities, and their caregivers. CHWs will focus on outreach, education, and building trust with those that they serve.  

    Since the project was launched in April 2025, SRC’s CHWs have: 

    •        Connected with local partners to promote CHW training for adults 55 years and older interested in the profession and began the first phase of training CHWs.
    •        Completed core competency training.
    •        Attended continuing education events on topics such as diabetes prevention and motivational interviewing.
    •        Engaged in outreach and education events to raise awareness on various topics related to older adult health.

  • Hispanic Center of West Michigan

    The Hispanic Center of West Michigan is using their CITIE funding to improve health and wellness and prevent chronic disease to immigrant and refugee populations in west Michigan. 

    Throughout the project period, Hispanic Center CHWs will be receiving training and professional development opportunities to enhance their skills and knowledge to address the social determinants of health for the individuals they serve. They will also be supporting their population as they navigate the healthcare system and providing health education through Comprando Rico y Sano workshops. All CHW services are culturally and linguistically appropriate to the community served.   

    Since the project was launched in April 2025, Hispanic Center CHWs have: 

    •        Attended professional development opportunities for CHWs to learn about addressing social determinants of health, strengthening their capacity to serve their community.
    •        Supported individuals with health insurance enrollment.
    •        Facilitated referrals to healthcare providers improving access to care.
    •        Provided education to individuals.

FY26 CITIE Grant Funding Opportunity (GFO) 

The MDHHS Policy and Planning Bureau has announced CITIE funding for fiscal year 2026 to enhance the CHW workforce and improve health equity. For more information or to apply, visit the EGrAMS website. The complete GFO can be accessed under the ‘Current Grants’ section under the “Policy and Planning” link and selecting the “CITIE-2026” grant program.

Resources

  1. Community Health Workers
  2. Michigan Medicaid CHW Policy