HealthConnect Cohort December Gathering and Awards

Dec 11

Written By SWACH

The HealthConnect Cohort came together on December 10 for a gathering celebrating the work of community health workers across Southwest Washington. The event brought together partners, cohort members, and staff for a day of connection, appreciation, and reflection.

The gathering included shared food, space for relationship-building, and time to highlight the important role of community health workers in supporting whole-person care. HealthConnect Awards were presented to recognize outstanding commitment, creativity, and leadership within the cohort.

Bingo and a networking game brought people together and gave everyone a chance to connect with peers from across the region. There was also time for cohort members to reflect on their work, share experiences, and talk about the needs they see in their communities every day.

Winners of 2025 HealthConnect Awards:

• Community-Based Worker of the Year: Shawn Kingsbury

• Recovery Champion: Abe Lepak II

• Health Equity Hero: Jasmine Neal

• Equity & Justice Visionary: Eboni Harris

• Outstanding Outreach: Charles Hanset Jr.

• Cultural Bridge Builder: Karen Morrison

• Youth Empowerment Advocate: Julisse Hopmann

• Rural Resilience: Samantha Reimer

• Community Innovation: Outsiders Inn

• Dedication in Action: Crystal Drake

• Exemplary Supervisor: Abby Brandt Whalin

• Cross Cultural Community Impact: MCAW Team
• Irina Kofova
• Ruby Sparks
• Olena Lupyn
• Phung Ojala
• Tareva Narruhn
• Bridgette Fahnbulleh

SWACH is grateful for the dedication and expertise that community health workers bring to HealthConnect and to our region. Their work continues to strengthen relationships, support community wellness, and expand access to care for the people who need it most.