August 21, 2026
Media Contact: Caitlin Hodge, Caitlin.Hodge@vdh.virginia.gov
Chickahominy Health District Recognizes Marla Ricart During National Community Health Workers Awareness Week
National Community Health Workers Awareness Week is August 24-28, 2026
ASHLAND, Va. – The Chickahominy Health District (CHD) would like to recognize its dedicated Community Health Workers (CHWs) during National Community Health Workers Awareness Week and celebrate the important role CHWs play in strengthening connections between families and essential health services. The district’s Maternal & Child Health Community Health Worker, Marla Ricart, embodies this mission through her work supporting parents, children, and caregivers in the counties of Charles City, Goochland, Hanover and New Kent.
Community Health Workers are a vital part of Virginia’s public health workforce. They serve as trusted partners who help individuals and families overcome barriers to better health while improving access to services and support. Every day, CHWs make a difference in these key areas of public health:
- Education: Helping people understand health information, learn more about how to prevent diseases, and make informed decisions about their health.
- Advocacy: Giving a voice to community needs and helping remove barriers that affect health and well-being.
- Outreach: Building trusted relationships by meeting people in the community and connecting them with available services.
- Navigation: Helping individuals and families find healthcare, social services, and other community resources to enhance their quality of life.
Marla’s passion for community health began with a simple belief: health improvement should be both accessible and understandable to every person. “I believe health should be accessible to everyone, regardless of background,” she said. “I want to make it easier to understand the resources available and have it be less intimidating, while building trust with the communities we serve.” A key priority for the district has been building stronger bridges between its programs that serve families — health education, WIC, and maternity care — work Marla says has made a meaningful difference. “We’ve strengthened our coordination across programs, and now we’re ready to welcome additional Community Health Workers to expand the impact,” she said.
Marla thrives on working directly with families, helping them access resources that support safe and healthy choices. “Being in the community, speaking with families, and making sure they have the resources they need — that’s my favorite part of the job,” she said. “Providing a family a car seat or a crib, as well as the proper way to set them up, can make an immediate difference.” One of her most memorable experiences occurred early in her role as a CHW, when she met a woman experiencing distressing symptoms. “Her face completely lit up when she realized I spoke her language,” Marla recalled. “That moment reminded me that representation matters — accessible healthcare experiences make a world of difference.” Working with district nurses, she helped the client navigate a difficult and emotional situation with greater comfort and understanding.
Looking ahead, Marla hopes to continue expanding the district’s CHW efforts. “We want to grow our program, spend more time in clinics, and build more relationships with community leaders and partners,” she said. CHD remains committed to supporting families through trusted relationships, accessible resources, and affordable care. Marla’s work demonstrates how meaningful connections can improve lives across the district.
To connect with the Chickahominy Health District’s CHWs, please call the Reach Line at: 804-365-3240 or find a CHW near you by visiting: Virginia Community Health Workers.
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