LiveWell Spring Action Summit 2026: Building a Community Health Navigation Network

Highlighted as a cross-connecting strategy in Douglas County’s Community Health Improvement Plan, three organizations have been working together to build the foundation of a community health navigation network. This year’s Action Summit highlighted the progress made over the past year and recognized the impact Community Health Workers (CHWs) are having on the quality of life for individuals in Douglas County. CHWs work to address the broader social determinants of health which significantly influence health outcomes and reduce health disparities to foster a stronger, healthier community overall. Heartland Community Health Center’s CHW program has been in place for three years and completed over 2,000 referrals. Lawrence-Douglas County Public Health and United Way of Kaw Valley have both brought on CHWs over the past year.