by Atara Estes, ICHW-C
Senior Community Health Worker (CHW) Strategist
The Unity Conference was nothing short of extraordinary—a living testament to the vision, passion, and relentless dedication that Community Health Workers bring to our communities and to the mission of NACHW.
CHWs are the bridge, the voice, and the heartbeat of the communities we serve. We don’t just connect people to resources; we stand in the gap, advocate for equity, and walk alongside individuals through their most challenging and transformative moments. This work is sacred, impactful, and essential—and Unity proved that when we come together, our voices are amplified and our impact is unstoppable.
As the Board of Directors Representative for Missouri, I am honored to serve as your advocate, ensuring that your stories, struggles, and successes are not just heard but acted upon. We are also proud to welcome our new Missouri Ambassador, Kevin Harris, who will join me in championing the needs of CHWs across the state. Together, we are here for YOU—the CHWs—and for the communities whose trust and wellbeing we safeguard every day.
Unity filled me with renewed confidence in what we can accomplish together. Your energy, engagement, and unwavering advocacy elevated every conversation, reinforced the strength of our network, and reminded us that we are stronger when we stand as one.
If you have advocacy updates, spotlight stories, or victories to share, send them our way. We want to raise your voice, share your journey, and ensure your work is recognized on the state and national stage.
Thank you for your encouragement, trust, and partnership. I look forward to building on this momentum with each of you—continuing to lead, serve, and fight for a healthier, more equitable future for all.
Together, we are NACHW. Together, we are the change.