Coming Soon: Community Health Worker Certification

The CoLabrium™ CHW Certification Program is our flagship workforce development offering, created to expand and strengthen California’s community health workforce. While the program is pending final approval by the Department of Health Care Access and Information (HCAI), it is available now for learners who want to gain the training, skills, and experience without waiting for the state process to conclude.

Built on the nationally recognized C3 Project Core Roles and Core Skills, the program integrates public health foundations, trauma-informed practice, cultural humility, and applied field experience. Learners will complete at least 80 hours of training, including 10 hours of field practice, and finish with a core competency assessment to demonstrate readiness.

For learners who are seeking professional development or skill-building, the program offers immediate value: accessible, applied training designed to prepare CHWs for frontline impact in healthcare and community systems. For those pursuing state-recognized certification, the program’s pending HCAI approval ensures that your training aligns with California’s standards, positioning you to seamlessly apply for certification once the process is finalized.

Once approved, the CHW Certification Program will provide one of the region’s most accessible and impactful certification pathways—helping individuals launch careers and organizations strengthen their workforce pipeline. With hybrid, in-person, and self-paced online formats available, as well as optional Skill Labs and reflection sessions, the program is designed to meet learners where they are and prepare them for where they want to go.

Frequently Asked Questions – CHW Certification Program

Can I enroll now, even before state approval?

Yes. The program is available now for learners who want to build skills and begin training immediately. You do not need to wait for state approval to enroll.

Does this training count toward state certification?

Yes. The program is fully designed to meet California’s HCAI requirements and is pending final approval. Once the program is approved, learners who have already completed the training will be eligible to apply for state certification without having to retake courses.

Will I need to retake the training after approval?

No. Learners who complete the program now will not need to repeat training once state approval is finalized. You will be recognized as having completed an HCAI-aligned program.

What makes this program different from other CHW trainings?

Our program is grounded in the nationally recognized C3 Project Core Roles and Core Skills, integrates trauma-informed practice and cultural humility, and includes required field hours. It is designed not only to meet state standards but also to prepare CHWs with applied skills, real-world case studies, and a portfolio for job readiness.

Who should enroll in this program now?

Anyone interested in working as a Community Health Worker, as well as those already in community, social service, or healthcare roles, who want formal training. Organizations may also enroll staff to build internal CHW capacity while awaiting official certification recognition.

How long is the program?

The program includes at least 80 hours of training, with 10 hours of field practice and a final competency assessment. It is available in hybrid, in-person, and self-paced online formats, with optional Skill Labs and reflection sessions.

What happens when HCAI final approval is granted?

Once approval is granted, the program will be officially recognized as a state-certified CHW training pathway. Graduates will be able to request state certification using the credential earned through this program.