CONTRIBUTED CONTENT — For those looking to make a difference in the health and well-being of their community or explore a new career, Southern Utah University has received funding to offer the Community Health Worker certificate this summer at no cost to Utah residents.
Community health workers serve as a bridge between communities, social services, health care systems and health departments. The nine-week program starts on June 15 and offers tools to upskill in the areas of outreach, health education, social support and advocacy.
“The content we cover in this course is relevant across many different professions,” said Lori Gray, Community Health Worker certificate instructor with the Utah Center for Rural Health. “If working in a field where you have the opportunity to help people make achievable goals and behavioral changes to improve their health is important to you, this course is a great place to start.”
As part of the Learn and Work in Utah initiative, this online certificate program can also position adults to explore a new career path at low risk. With content curated by the Utah Department of Health and current Community Health Worker instructors, participants will be prepared to work in hospitals, clinics, health departments, schools, community health centers and home health.
“The online course allows for synchronous and asynchronous learning, which caters to the needs of working adult learners,” said Stefanie Podlog, a past Community Health Worker student. “I strongly encourage anyone interested in personal growth and achieving certification in community health work to make this commitment. I believe it is well worth it!”
Topics explored in this course include motivational interviewing, developing and managing groups, relationship building and how to adapt and work well with others. Due to seating being available on a first-come, first-served basis, it is recommended that those interested apply online soon.
“With many unfilled job openings in our region, professional certificates offer opportunities for participants to qualify for higher-paying jobs that can lead to rewarding careers,” said Melynda Thorpe, executive director of SUU Community & Professional Development. “The short-term nature of our programs is designed to help people focus on learning, gain new skills, and get to work.”
The Learn and Work in Utah initiative was launched by the Utah Governor’s Office of Economic Development and its Talent Ready Utah team in partnership with the Utah System of Higher Education. The certificate programs are available at no cost to legal residents of Utah impacted by COVID-19.
SUU Community & Professional Development offers opportunities for adults to elevate their careers, stay competitive in the workforce and develop as leaders. Located in the world’s best backyard, SUU is known as the “University of the Parks” thanks to its close proximity to several national monuments, outdoor recreational areas and educational partnerships with the National Park Service.
Reach your next career peak with SUU by visiting this website.
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