Overview of the Harris County Public Health Healthy Communities Conference

 I recently had the pleasure of attending the Harris County Public Health Healthy Communities Conference in Houston, Texas, which focused on "Deepening Community Health Workers’ Roots of Leadership, Equity, and Resilience." This trip was a refreshing recharge and one of the best business experiences I’ve had in a long time.

At the conference, I had the incredible honor of being one of three panelists, alongside Rosalia Guerrero and Alma Aranda (CHWI, Harris Health), with Dr. Heidi McPherson (Health Equity Collective) serving as our wonderful moderator. As the only out-of-town representative from St. Louis, Missouri, I was both humbled and grateful for the warm hospitality and assistance provided by the conference staff. The experience felt like a true "light, camera, action" moment, with everything coming together seamlessly.

Being on that panel in front of hundreds of passionate Community Health Workers (CHWs) and their allies was a total game changer. The conversation flowed effortlessly, and I felt an overwhelming sense of peace, knowing that I was meant to be there. The questions presented to us were not only life-changing but also offered tangible insights that others could integrate into their own work.

As I shared my experiences and best practices from St. Louis, particularly my work with the Integrated Health Network, I emphasized that while these practices are effective, they aren’t a one-size-fits-all solution. Each city and state must navigate its own guidelines and regulations, but the key is to keep moving forward. One day, that "no" you keep receiving will turn into a "yes."

Mentorship is a critical principle in supporting the CHW workforce, and it’s essential for CHWs to have a voice at decision-making tables. I challenged executive leaders and decision-makers to give credit where it’s due—acknowledging the innovative ideas that CHW employees, supervisors, managers, and specialists contribute to help organizations thrive. Without their vision and lived experiences, communities would suffer. There is true power in togetherness.

I am a CHW for life, and the best is yet to come! As we celebrate National CHW Awareness Week from August 26th to 30th, let's continue to uplift and support one another in our shared mission.

Quote for CHW Warriors: "To all the CHW warriors out there: Your dedication is the heartbeat of our communities. As we unite during National CHW Awareness Week, remember that our resilience, leadership, and compassion are the roots that strengthen us all. Keep pushing forward—the world needs our light more than ever."

If you would like to book me as a keynote speaker, presenter, or panelist at conferences or seminars, you can do so by visiting my website at www.ataraestes.com or emailing theyenetworkgroup@gmail.com. I am excited to bring my passion and expertise to your event!

This experience was more than just a professional opportunity; it was a chance to spread my wings and soar like an eagle. I am deeply thankful for this amazing opportunity to share my journey and advocate for the CHW workforce.

Atara Estes, ICHW-C

Founder of TATU Your Wellbeing, LLC (Holistic Wellness on Trauma Recovery)