Reflecting on Community-Based Workforce Awareness Week
From July 21-28, Southwest Washington Accountable Community of Health (SWACH) celebrated the vital role our community-based workforce plays in supporting individuals and families in accessing resources and overcoming barriers to health and social care. This week was dedicated to recognizing and appreciating the hard work and dedication of those who tirelessly work to improve the well-being of our community.
On July 25, members of the community-based workforce gathered at the YWCA for a day of celebration and relaxation organized by SWACH. The event featured chair massages, self-care stations, networking opportunities, and a game of bingo. The day itself was a chance to unwind for all the hardworking CBW’s in our community, connect with peers, and enjoy some well-deserved recognition.
Activities and Highlights:
Cooking Station: Hosted by Stacey Tigner from the WSU Extension SNAP-Ed Program, this station provided an overview of the program, highlighting community support initiatives such as the Farmers Market SNAP Match program and educational tours. Participants also enjoyed a food waste prevention presentation and a broccoli stem salad tasting, demonstrating creative ways to reduce food waste.
Cultural Dance: Anna Cruz and Marianna Cruz from Vancouver Ballet Folklorico led participants in learning traditional dances. The first part involved learning “El Zopilote,” a traditional dance from Guerrero, Mexico, which required some squatting. Participants learned footwork, interaction, and basic choreography steps. The second part introduced “Wepa,” a type of Cumbia, allowing participants to learn and dance together. Participants also engaged in the Mexican Hat Dance “La Raspa,” fostering a sense of national identity and fun.
Gardening Station: Sheila Haney from the WSU Extension Master Gardening Program guided participants through the basics of plant propagation. Various techniques, including seeds, cuttings, layering, and division, were reviewed. Participants also made cuttings from a variety of plants to take home, making the experience both rewarding and educational.
Dream Catcher Station: Barbara Gladue from the Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa led a session on creating dreamcatchers. Participants learned about the significance and meaning of each part of the dreamcatcher while creating their own. This activity provided a cultural insight and a hands-on crafting experience.
Personal Mission Statement: Mercedes facilitated a session where participants reflected on their personal missions. Using watercolors, acrylics, and canvases, participants documented their mission statements through various forms of artistic expression. This activity allowed for personal reflection and creativity, helping individuals focus on their goals and aspirations.
Voices from SWACH:
“One of the things we hear frequently when we’re talking with you all is that we want more opportunities to be with other peers and colleagues who do the same work that you do, and just to have fun when you get together,” said Mercedes Zahler, HealthConnect Community Engagement Manager.
Nicole Hamberger, HealthConnect Community Engagement Specialist, emphasized the importance of this initiative.
“Even though this isn’t a nationally recognized day, SWACH created our own for Southwest Washington,” Hamberger said. “We wanted to start something really to create some awareness in our community and with our community partners of the vital role of community-based workers and how important and critical they are to connecting people to their needs and increasing their well-being.”
This week was not just about celebration; it was about acknowledging the essential contributions of our community-based workforce. Their efforts are crucial in bridging gaps and ensuring that everyone has access to the resources they need.