DePaul's Community Health Worker Apprenticeship Program
The Community Health Worker (CHW) Apprenticeship Program is a workforce development initiative designed to prepare individuals for meaningful careers in community health while helping employers build a skilled, committed, and community-connected workforce.
Through 2,000 hours of structured, hands-on training, apprentices gain real-world experience, practical skills, and a deep understanding of the communities they serve. Participants are trained to support patient navigation, health education, care coordination, and connection to critical social services making them job-ready and effective from day one.
Employers who participate in the CHW Apprenticeship Program benefit from:
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A job-ready workforce trained specifically for community health roles
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Reduced recruitment and onboarding costs by developing talent from within the community
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Higher employee retention and loyalty, as apprentices often remain with their organizations long term
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Improved community trust and engagement, driven by culturally responsive care
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Stronger organizational reputation through demonstrated investment in workforce and community development
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Leadership development opportunities, creating a sustainable pipeline of future mentors and leaders
Because apprentices often live in or share lived experiences with the communities they serve, they bring cultural understanding, trust, and insight that strengthen patient relationships and improve follow-through on care. This community-rooted approach leads to better health outcomes, increased patient satisfaction, and stronger connections between organizations and the people they serve.
Why Businesses Should Turn a Trainee into Talent
DePaul encourages all employer partners participating in our 12-month Community Health Worker (CHW) Apprenticeship Program to take the next step and hire your apprentices during their training period. You’ve already invested in their growth. Now is the time to bring that talent fully into your workforce.
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You Already Know Their Value. You’ve helped shape their development, hiring them allows you to fully benefit from that investment
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Your apprentice has been trained within your environment, understands your workflows, and aligns with your Mission. Apprentices build relationships with patients throughout their training. Hiring them ensures those trusted connections continue, improving engagement and outcomes.
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Reduce Recruitment Gaps
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Strengthen Contiuity of Care
