The Center for Community and Professional Education

Outside the Box, Inside the Community: Innovating Rural Health Care in Every Corner is an in-person conference celebrating the unique spaces and places where Community Health Workers (CHWs) make a difference. As the keystone connection between community members and the removal of barriers to social drivers of health, CHWs play a vital role in shaping community care. This event brings together CHWs, health care professionals, and rural community members for engaging panels, interactive discussions, and resource sharing. Participants will connect with peers, explore innovative strategies for rural health care, and take part in multiple professional development breakout sessions designed to strengthen skills and foster collaboration.  

Join us to celebrate community-centered innovation and discover new ways to transform health care delivery in every corner of rural communities. 

Who should attend: 

• Community Health Workers 
• Care managers, navigators, social workers, behavioral health providers 
• Public health practitioners, nonprofit partners, local officials, and educators 
• Anyone committed to improving rural health access and outcomes*
  • *People living, working, planning to work, or serving organizations in the Outer Cape Cod and Islands, Berkshire County, and Franklin County regions.

The Massachusetts Rural Public Health Workforce Training Network (RPHWTN) expands and strengthens the community health workforce across rural regions of the Commonwealth. Through Cape & Islands AHEC and our lead partner NERHA, we collaboratively design and deliver training for new, current, and aspiring CHWs—prioritizing practical skills, cultural humility, and community-rooted solutions. 

Date: Friday, March 13th, 2026 

Time: 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM

Location: Ocean Edge Resort & Golf Club, 2907 Main Street, Brewster, MA 02601

Registration Closes Friday March 6, 2026.