Twenty years ago, Anna Mackie’s life was shaped by experiences that would challenge anyone’s sense of safety and stability. Like many survivors of violence and hardship, she spent years navigating trauma, periods of housing insecurity, and the demands of raising a child with special needs while trying to stay afloat.

Through it all, Anna carried a quiet determination to keep moving forward.

“I’ve worn a lot of hats,” Anna shared with a smile. Over the years she worked wherever she could – delivery driving, restaurant service, and other jobs that helped her support her family. College had to be put on hold, but the desire to build something better never disappeared.

When she came across Asian Women for Health’s Community Health Worker training program, she decided to take a chance.

“I’ve always wanted to work in healthcare and serve the most vulnerable,” she said. “Because at different points in my life, I was one of them.”

The decision was not without anxiety. “I get shaky and anxious often, but I’m grateful I came here. Now, with this training, a better resume, skills, and confidence is stronger. I can finally focus on getting a stable job and building a future.”

Last month, Anna stood alongside nine other passionate students on graduation day for our 9th Community Health Worker cohort. Each graduate carried their own story, lived experience, and the desire of serving others. The room shimmered with black and gold decorations as excitement and pride filled the air. Students gathered to present on issues close to their hearts: intimate partner violence, breast cancer awareness, substance abuse, and more. Topics that don’t stay abstract when you’ve walked that ground yourself.

“Everybody here has touched my life. I’ve grown in ways I didn’t think I would,” Anna shared with tears of joy and aspiration. 

Every cohort, we witness the pride and accomplishment of our graduates – not just in skills gained, but in the spirit of solidarity and service. Since 2023, over 95+ individuals have graduated from our CHI program, with more than 76%+ placed in jobs within six months. The transformation is clear: stable employment (averaging $50,000 starting salaries), career advancement, and, most importantly, a ripple effect of care throughout the community. Our alumni now work as patient navigators, maternal health advocates, behavioral health aides, housing and food security coordinators, and insurance enrollment specialists – roles vital to bridging gaps in healthcare and trust.

Our Community Health Impact program is a gathering place for those who know what it means to be unseen and unheard by the system. Most participants come from immigrant backgrounds; who know language barriers, survivors who know trauma, people who have been underemployed or overlooked and now choose to turn that wisdom into healing. 

“Two months ago, we started this journey with the desire to serve. Now, I see trusted messengers, healers, and real leaders in our community,” shared another graduate. 

The CHW program is more than training – it’s a movement toward economic mobility, racial equity, and a healthcare system that reflects the communities it serves. We are committed to expanding this program and deepening our impact because the future of equitable healthcare starts with each graduate. Anna Mackie’s journey is proof that some of our most powerful healers and leaders are those who have walked the hardest roads. 

Support our mission, and help us build a healthier, more just future for all. Apply to join the next cohort: awfh.org/CHW-Interest