The CHW Workforce Movement: A Call to Action for Collective Healing

The time has come for us all—Community Health Workers (CHWs), clinical healthcare professionals, and allies alike—to stand united. As we approach a looming crisis in healthcare, this is not a moment to panic but a moment to prepare. This is a war cry for us to come together, break down silos, and work as one. Our communities need us, and as those who hold the lived experiences of navigating these challenges from the inside out, we are uniquely equipped to respond.

The Power of Partnership

The healthcare system, whether clinical or nonclinical, cannot function in isolation. The challenges our communities face—systemic inequities, mental health crises, substance abuse, and more—demand a collaborative response. We need to move beyond the "do-it-yourself" mentality.

No single entity has all the answers, but together, we can innovate and create lasting solutions. Let’s build bridges, not barriers. Let’s honor the visionaries among us and credit those who tirelessly work to make lives better. After all, people do not belong to us; they belong to God. We are all His children, and no one is better than anyone else.

CHWs: Warriors of Trust and Advocacy

CHWs are more than just professionals—they are warriors in "beast mode" for their communities every day. The secret sauce of our work is the trusted relationships we build. These relationships are born from shared experiences and a commitment to healing. We understand the trauma our community members face because many of us have walked the same paths.

But we also know that healing takes more than temporary healthcare solutions. Band-aid fixes will not solve the systemic issues our communities face. It’s time to address the root causes of inequity and remove the barriers that perpetuate suffering.

Valuing CHWs: The Need for Support and Sustainability

It’s disheartening that CHWs often feel disrespected, under-credited, and undervalued. We are seen as "bottom feeders" instead of as the transformative professionals we are. CHWs deserve a living wage—not just to survive but to thrive.

Burnout is real, especially when we are expected to work multiple jobs to make ends meet while carrying the emotional weight of our work. Yet, we persevere, heads held high, even when the trauma we face daily takes its toll.

Healing Ourselves and Our Communities

It’s not just our communities that need healing; we as CHWs need emotional and trauma recovery as well. Let’s implement plans for long-term care—both for ourselves and for those we serve. Together, we can move from surviving to thriving, from being in survival mode to leading with strength and resilience.

A Vision for the Future

I have a vision—one that brings community voices to the table and respects the expertise of those with lived experience. It’s a vision that removes systemic barriers, fosters mutual support, and builds a sustainable framework for CHWs and other healthcare professionals to thrive.

But this vision requires all of us to be bold and courageous, to listen and learn from one another, and to take collective action. We cannot continue to work in isolation; we must collaborate and build trusted partnerships to support the communities we all serve.

Thriving After Trauma

Say it with me:
I can thrive after trauma unashamed.
You can thrive after trauma unashamed.
We can thrive after trauma unashamed.

Together, let’s walk in our greatness and show our communities how to rise above the challenges they face. CHWs, healthcare workers, allies—we need one another more than ever. Let’s answer this call.

To be continued...

Resources and training:

https://www.samhsa.gov/

 https://www.nami.org/

https://nachw.org/generalresources/networks-and-training-programs/

Tuning In to Your Healing in Seasons

Tuning In to Your Healing in Seasons

Healing is not a one-size-fits-all journey—it’s a deeply personal process that unfolds in seasons, much like the rhythm of nature. Just as spring brings renewal, summer shines with growth, autumn invites release, and winter offers rest, your healing journey follows a divine cadence. Tuning in to your healing means embracing each season with grace and understanding.

In your season of mourning, allow yourself to feel and grieve without judgment. In your season of restoration, lean into self-care and the guidance of God. In your season of joy, celebrate the small victories and newfound peace that bloom in your heart. Healing requires patience and trust in the timing of your life.

By aligning with God’s voice and being intuitive to your spirit, you’ll find clarity on when it’s time to rest, cry, let go or rebuild. Each season serves a purpose in your growth, and none should be rushed or skipped. Honor where you are, knowing that joy is promised and will come in its time.

Healing in seasons is about surrendering to the process and trusting that every moment—whether painful or joyful—is leading you closer to wholeness, freedom, and peace.

Healing and Support During the Holidays: Navigating Emotional Pain with Strength and Peace*

Greetings,

The holidays are often seen as a time for joy, connection, and celebration. But for many, they can also bring up deep emotions, especially when dealing with past pain, betrayal, or loss. Whether you're facing emotional wounds from a relationship, family dynamics, or just the weight of everything happening around you, the holidays can be overwhelming.

Healing Together If you’re struggling this holiday season, know that you don’t have to go through it alone. Healing and support are available to you, and there are steps you can take to find peace, strength, and hope in the midst of it all. One of the greatest resources for mental and emotional well-being is NAMI.org (National Alliance on Mental Illness), which offers support, education, and advocacy for individuals and families affected by mental health challenges. NAMI can help guide you through difficult times, offering community support and practical tools to manage your mental health. Remember, emotional healing is a process, and it’s okay to take your time. Allow yourself the space to feel, to grieve, and to heal. And while you’re navigating these emotions, don’t forget to be kind to yourself. Sometimes, that’s the first step toward healing: treating yourself with the same love, compassion, and grace you would offer a dear friend. Be Thankful for Peace and Strength In moments of difficulty, remember to be thankful to God for the peace and strength He has given you, even in the midst of the storms. It’s through those challenging times that we often find our deepest growth and resilience. God’s love and grace are always present, even when the world feels heavy. Trust that, even in your struggles, He is giving you the strength to rise above and heal. Support One Another During this season, let’s commit to supporting each other. Emotional healing is often easier when we can lean on each other, share our experiences, and find strength in community. Whether it’s a friend, family member, or even a support group, we can heal and grow stronger together. Listen to Our Latest Episode for More Empowerment If you're ready to take the next step in your healing journey, I encourage you to listen to our latest podcast episode on *TATU Your Wellbeing, LLC: Thriving After Trauma Unashamed*. In "If Someone Cheats or Hurts You, Don’t Worry—Just Do One Thing", I dive deep into how to rise above hurt and betrayal, reclaim your peace, and set boundaries to protect your emotional well-being. This episode is packed with empowering insights and practical steps to help you heal through life’s challenges. Click here to listen to the full episode on our YouTube channel and take this healing journey with us. As you continue to navigate through the holidays and beyond, remember: to be good to yourself and to one another. Together, we can heal and support each other on the path to peace and emotional well-being. ---How has forgiveness played a role in your healing process? Takeaway: Healing is a journey, and it’s okay to ask for help. Whether it’s through resources like NAMI.org or by listening to our latest podcast episode, there are always ways to find support and strength. You are not alone, and your healing matters.

From Surviving to Thriving Unashamed: A Healing Journey Beyond Domestic Violence Awareness Month

 

As we wrap up Domestic Violence Awareness Month, let us remember that our journey towards healing does not end here. For survivors, each day is a step in a much larger process—a process of overcoming, rebuilding, and rediscovering ourselves. There are 365 days in a year, and every single one matters on this journey. If you’re reading this, know that your story is still being written, and the power to heal is within you.

Healing is not about erasing the past but about reclaiming the present and the future. Though we can’t change what happened, we can learn to thrive beyond it. Moving from striving and surviving to thriving unashamed is a journey that requires courage, community, and intentional self-love. You don’t have to walk this path alone; there is a community ready to uplift and support you.

Breaking the Silence, Honoring Your Journey

Every story of survival holds its own strength. By honoring our stories, we break the silence and dismantle the shame that often accompanies trauma. For many survivors, the weight of domestic violence or trauma can create a lingering sense of guilt, fear, or unworthiness. Yet, honoring our journey means recognizing that we are not defined by our trauma—we are defined by the strength it took to survive.

As survivors, we are here to remind each other that there is no need to carry this weight alone. Sharing your journey with a trusted community, therapist, or support group can be the beginning of a powerful release, helping to rebuild a sense of safety and connection.

From Surviving to Thriving: Building a Life of Intention and Self-Love

Living beyond trauma is about creating a life where you are not just surviving each day but thriving—growing, dreaming, and living unashamed of what you’ve endured. Here are ways to support yourself on this journey:

1. Set Boundaries with Confidence: After trauma, setting healthy boundaries is essential. Boundaries are a form of self-respect and self-care, allowing you to protect your energy and mental well-being. Don’t be afraid to say no to anything that doesn’t serve your healing.

2. Practice Intentional Self-Love: Healing starts with love and compassion for yourself. Find practices that nurture you, whether it’s journaling, meditation, exercise, or a creative hobby. Take time each day to remind yourself of your worth and the incredible resilience within you.

3. Seek Support and Build Connections: Trauma can feel isolating, but there are many resources, from online support groups to local organizations, ready to provide understanding and encouragement. Community is powerful—find people who can stand with you, listen, and remind you of the light within you.

4. Embrace the Healing Process: Healing isn’t linear. Some days will feel harder than others, and that’s okay. Allow yourself grace and patience as you navigate this path. Remember, thriving doesn’t mean perfection; it means growth, one step at a time.

5. Give Yourself Permission to Thrive: Trauma can create a mindset of mere survival, but you deserve more than just “getting by.” You are worthy of joy, peace, and fulfillment. Give yourself permission to dream big and envision a life beyond the scars of your past. You deserve it.

Healing Together: A 365-Day Commitment to Thriving Unashamed

For survivors, Domestic Violence Awareness Month is not limited to October. Every day, someone is beginning their journey to freedom, healing, and empowerment. By coming together, we can create spaces of strength and support, reminding each other that it is possible to live fully and unashamed. Your healing matters, and so does the healing of every survivor you may meet along the way.

The journey from surviving to thriving unashamed is one of the most courageous paths a person can walk. Today, as you read this, I invite you to take one intentional step toward healing—whether it’s reaching out for help, setting a new goal, or giving yourself a moment of self-compassion. You are not alone, and your story does not end with trauma. It is a story of strength, courage, and a commitment to reclaiming your life.

Join us on this journey. We are a community that believes in healing, growth, and living unashamed. Together, we can make sure that every day of the year is a day of awareness, support, and thriving.

To every survivor: you are worthy, and you are more than enough.

Resource: 

Help is available

Speak with someone today

National Domestic Violence Hotline

Languages: English, Spanish, and 200+ through interpretation service

Hours: 24/7

Call 800-799-7233

Igniting Inspiration for a Powerful Start to Your Work Week

TATU: Thriving After Trauma Unashamed Motivational Momentum Every Sunday at 6 PM | Hosted by Author Atara TATU Estes Ignite your spirit and start your week with powerful inspiration! Join Atara TATU Estes, trauma survivor, author, and motivational speaker, as she hosts a transformative session every Sunday at 6 PM. Through personal stories, faith-filled wisdom, and messages of hope, Atara empowers you to reclaim your strength, walk in healing, and thrive unashamed. Subscribe, follow, and share to be a part of our uplifting community. Visit ataraestes.com to join the journey towards healing and self-liberation!

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Thriving After Trauma Unashamed: A Journey of Survival, Healing, and Triumph

 

Thriving After Trauma Unashamed: A Journey of Survival, Healing, and Triumph

It was Friday, September 13, 2002, a date forever etched in my memory—22 years ago today. On that day, I survived something unimaginable: blindfolded, shot in the back, thrown into a trunk, and left for dead. Domestic violence almost took my life, but God saw fit to keep me alive. Only He knew why I would be spared through such devastating adversity, an experience that still echoes in the scars, nerve damage, and a bullet lodged in my chest cavity.

Living with the physical pain was a constant reminder of that dark moment. Chronic migraines, PTSD, and depression tried to overwhelm me. The emotional wounds of trying to understand "Why did this happen to me?" were almost more than I could bear. But through the storm, I fought—physically, mentally, and spiritually. I clung to God, pleading for the strength to endure the pain and the wisdom to reclaim the broken pieces of who I once was.

I died emotionally on that day, and for a long time, I believed I would never live or love again. But God, in His infinite grace, spoke to me, reminding me that what the enemy meant for harm, He would turn around for my good. Genesis 50:20 says, "You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives." And that scripture was my turning point.

God said, “Give Me your hate, your hurt, your pain, your sorrow, your unforgiveness, and love Me. Let Me carry what you cannot.” In that moment, I surrendered it all to Him. From that surrender, a new purpose emerged—one rooted in my testimony of survival and the hope that came with it.

I began sharing my story on public platforms: TV interviews, podcasts, and speaking engagements, raising awareness about domestic and dating violence. I penned my self-published survivor book, Damaged Goods: My Journey in 2014, as an offering of hope to others who might be suffering in silence. Now, 22 years later, I am working on turning that book into a film, speaking at women's shelters, advising on trauma recovery, and being a voice for survivors who still feel voiceless.

But my journey didn’t stop there. Out of my pain, I birthed something beautiful. I launched my holistic wellness business, TATU Your Wellbeing, LLC—Thriving After Trauma Unashamed. Through this business, I’ve brought life to other ventures like Atara Healing Visual Artwork and Photography, Atara Global Innovation, and Ruth's Healing Harvest Farmacy. These projects have allowed me to integrate creativity, faith, and holistic health into the healing process for others who are seeking wholeness after trauma.

Today, as I reflect on these past 22 years, I cannot help but marvel at what God has done in my life. From the pit of despair to the heights of purpose, I have learned to not only live but to love myself fully. The enemy tried to kill my dreams, steal my joy, and destroy my soul—but God had a greater plan. And in that plan, I have found the freedom to thrive.

For anyone out there still struggling with the aftermath of trauma, I want you to know that you can rise. There is life after pain, and there is hope beyond despair. I stand as living proof that no matter what you've been through, you can thrive.

I will continue to share my story because it’s not just about survival—it’s about thriving unashamed. Now, as I live to learn, I have learned to truly live.

To all survivors: Never let your trauma define you. Let your healing redefine you.

With love and faith,
Atara Estes
TATU: Thriving After Trauma Unashamed

www.ataraestes.com

FB: Author Atara Estes , TATU Your Wellbeing

Resources: 

National Domestic Violence Hotline (U.S.):

• Phone: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)

• Text: Text "START" to 88788

• Website: thehotline.org

• Availability: 24/7, confidential, and free. Services in English and Spanish, and translation available for 200+ languages.

Love Is Respect – National Dating Abuse Helpline (for youth):

• Phone: 1-866-331-9474

• Text: Text "LOVEIS" to 22522

• Website: loveisrespect.org

• Availability: 24/7, confidential, and free. Focuses on healthy relationships and preventing dating abuse for teens and young adults.

988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (U.S.):

• Phone: Call or text 988

• Website: 988lifeline.org

• Availability: 24/7, confidential, and free. Provides support for individuals in emotional distress, experiencing a mental health crisis, or contemplating suicide.

🎉 Celebrating the 2nd Annual National CHW Awareness Week 🎉

 Ladies and Gentlemen, esteemed colleagues, and beloved Community Health Workers,

As we gather here today to celebrate the 2nd Annual National CHW Awareness Week, I am filled with a profound sense of pride and admiration for each one of you. This is more than just a week of recognition—this is a moment in history. We are here to honor the dedication, resilience, leadership, and compassion that you, the CHWs, embody every single day.

You are the unsung heroes of our communities. When the world feels heavy, and the challenges seem insurmountable, it is your strength that carries us through. You stand on the front lines, not just as healthcare providers, but as advocates, educators, and trusted confidants. You are the heartbeat of our communities, the lifeline that connects us to health, hope, and healing.

Your work is not easy. The path you walk is often fraught with obstacles and uncertainty, but still, you persevere. Why? Because you understand that the work you do is more than a job—it is a calling. A calling to serve, to uplift, and to transform lives. Your resilience is remarkable, and your compassion is boundless.

As we celebrate this week, I want each of you to take a moment to reflect on the impact you have made. Think of the lives you have touched, the communities you have strengthened, and the barriers you have broken down. You are the roots that anchor us, the leaders who inspire us, and the warriors who protect us.

But our journey does not end here. The world needs your light now more than ever. There are still so many hearts to heal, so many voices to amplify, and so much change to be made. Let this week be a reminder of your power, your purpose, and your potential.

But before you push forward, remember to take care of yourself. As we approach the Labor Day holiday, take a moment for your own self-care. You pour so much into others, but your wellness matters just as much. If you are not well, you will not be well enough to serve others. So take this time to rest, recharge, and renew your spirit. You deserve it, and your community needs you at your best.

Keep pushing forward, for the work you do is vital. Keep shining your light, for it guides us all. And keep believing in the power of your impact, for you are the changemakers, the healers, the leaders of tomorrow.

Together, we are stronger. Together, we can achieve anything. Together, we are unstoppable.

And as we celebrate, I encourage you to share this message with other CHW warriors, ally champions, and everyone who needs to know about the CHW workforce. Let’s spread the word far and wide, so that more people can understand and appreciate the critical role that CHWs play in our communities.

Thank you for your tireless dedication, your unwavering commitment, and your extraordinary contributions.

Happy National CHW Awareness Week!

– Atara Estes, CHW Leadership Development Specialist at IHN and NACHW Board of Directors