From training 18 new Community Health Workers in rural El Salvador to expanding chronic disease outreach in Uganda, the spring months of 2026 highlighted growth, leadership, and the multiplying impact of community-based healthcare.
In March 2026, our team returned to Texistepeque, El Salvador, with a mission to strengthen local healthcare from the ground up. Through intensive training and hands-on workshops, we successfully certified 44 new Community Health Workers in life-saving skills ranging from advanced first aid to maternal health. Read on to see the measurable impact of this trip, the challenges we overcame, and how your continued support is building a healthier, more resilient future for these rural communities.
The first months of 2026 highlight resilience and growth across our Community Health Worker network. From strategic planning and expanded outreach in Uganda to emergency preparedness in El Salvador and flood response in Zimbabwe, CHWs are beginning the year with commitment and compassion.
From monthly meetings that never missed a beat to large-scale maternal health trainings in Uganda, the second half of 2025 showed what’s possible when Community Health Workers are consistently supported. This impact update highlights milestones, community events, and the quiet, faithful work of CHWs serving across El Salvador and Uganda.
A volunteer shares her experience traveling to Uganda with IHELP, learning Luganda, connecting with CHWs, and discovering the power of community-centered public health.
As International HELP celebrates ten years of global impact, we’re sharing powerful stories from the Community Health Workers who are transforming health in their communities. From maternal health in Zimbabwe to nutrition training in Haiti and malnutrition screening in Uganda, these everyday leaders show what lasting change looks like in action.
Discover what it’s like behind the scenes of International HELP’s CHW training in Uganda as an intern reflects on preparing materials, teaching sessions, and the passion of local health workers.
Stories of Impact from Our Newest Community Health Workers (CHWs) in Entebbe, Uganda
Over the past two months, our Community Health Workers (CHWs) have been working diligently—hosting community events, educating neighbors, responding to local health concerns, and demonstrating creativity and commitment. Whether it’s tackling mosquito-borne diseases, helping at local clinics, or finding new ways to visibly represent their role, these CHWs continue to be the first line of health support in their communities. Here’s a look at what they’ve been up to:
The Las Negritas Community Health Workers (CHWs) rallied together with community members, church members, and children from the local school to work together to clean their community. The groups worked to pick up trash, organize recycling, and clean common spaces. This initiative not only beautified the area but also helped prevent diseases by removing trash and standing water that attract mosquitoes.
The CHWs of Ojo de Agua hosted an “Abatización” campaign, creating and distributing mosquito-killing treatment bags to prevent dengue and other mosquito-borne diseases. They went house to house to ensure proper use, showcasing a proactive approach to fighting mosquitos.
In April, CHWs in El Jute met to discuss asthma and allergies and raised concern over an uptick in Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease among children. In May, they focused on personal hygiene—covering handwashing, skin infections, and household cleanliness. In both meetings, CHWs reported taking community members’ blood pressure and helping others recognize common symptoms of illness.
The Zimbabwe CHWs have been asking for more identification to help them while they work in their communities. While in Zimbabwe in April for their Advanced Nutrition Certification, we were able to design and order t-shirts for them. The shirts were finally delivered! These shirts help legitimize their presence and reinforce their role as trusted health leaders in their neighborhoods.
These snapshots show what’s possible when CHWs are equipped, empowered, and trusted by their communities. From tackling disease outbreaks to supporting clinic operations and creating healthier environments, their ripple effect is undeniable. As we move into summer, we look forward to continued momentum—and to celebrating more CHW wins with you along the way.
After over six years of volunteering with International HELP, I finally had the opportunity to experience one of our training trips firsthand. As someone who’s worked behind the scenes for years, being on the ground, face-to-face with Community Health Workers, was humbling and inspiring.
Here are four key takeaways that left a impression on me:
One of the first things that struck me was how eager the Community Health Workers were to learn. They brought an incredible level of energy and curiosity to every session. Whether we were discussing diabetes, nutrition-related illnesses, or diving deeper into advanced concepts, their attentiveness and enthusiasm never wavered. It reminded me why education is such a powerful tool. When people are truly invested in gaining knowledge, real change becomes possible.
After years of hearing about our partners from afar, meeting them in person was a gift. There’s something incredibly powerful about looking someone in the eye, sharing a meal, and laughing together between sessions. I loved getting to know all of their names and see all their different personalities.
Hearing how our Community Health Workers have applied past trainings in their own communities was incredibly moving. They shared stories about how previous sessions had helped them improve health outcomes, educate families, and even save lives. These testimonials were a powerful reminder that what we do doesn’t just stay in the classroom, it goes outward into real communities.
While I’ve been involved in developing and supporting our training materials for years, seeing our process in action was eye-opening. The trainings are incredibly hands-on, interactive, and empowering. Watching the health workers ask thoughtful questions, engage in discussions, and take ownership of the material made me proud to be part of this project.
This trip reaffirmed my belief in the mission of International HELP:
“We envision the end of preventable diseases in underprivileged areas globally through educating and empowering local people to be healthcare leaders, whose impact will change the course of their community.”
I’m forever grateful for this experience and even more motivated to continue supporting our work!
Written By: Reagan Hearns – IHELP Development Assistant
