Veteran Community Health Worker

Under the direction of the Supervisor, Community Health & Wellness, the Veteran Community Health Worker (CHW) serves as a trusted liaison between health and social service providers and the community, with a specialized focus on veteran health service navigation. This role helps improve access to care, reduce barriers, and promote culturally competent services while supporting veterans and their families in achieving whole health and wellness.

The CHW builds both individual and community capacity through outreach, education, informal counseling, advocacy, and social support. Working closely with Access and Engagement teams and other multidisciplinary partners, the CHW ensures veterans are connected to the right resources at the right time.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide in-office, in-home, and community-based visits to high-risk individuals to assess needs and guide care.

• Assist Access Services with office support tasks such as compiling welcome packets, making reminder calls, completing questionnaires, and scheduling appointments.

• Help veterans and their families navigate the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), government agencies, and community resources.

• Participate in veteran-focused events, including Veterans Coalition meetings and Vet-to-Vet breakfasts.

• Conduct follow-ups on Social Determinants of Health (SDOH), linking individuals to appropriate resources.

• Maintain an updated resource list and utilize Care Hub and MI Bridges to connect individuals to food, housing, medical, behavioral health, and other supports.

• Provide ongoing support for individuals seeking recovery from substance use disorders until their first service appointment.

• Facilitate communication between veterans and healthcare/social service systems to ensure care coordination.

• Support LifeWays’ wellness program through registration, reminder calls, and group facilitation (e.g., Stress Less, Exercise With Us).

• Take and record vital signs in the electronic health record (EHR).

• Advocate for individuals to reduce barriers to care and promote wellness.

• Attend and represent LifeWays at community meetings and events.

• Assist with the setup and activation of CEHR Patient Portal(s).