Nicole Clark: I AM A CHW
What inspired you to become a CHW?
Nicole Clark’s journey into community health work stems from her personal experiences. Becoming a single mom at a young age meant navigating the complex world of resources alone. It wasn’t easy, and she often felt lost. This challenging time in her life inspired Nicole to become the kind of person she needed back then—someone who could guide, support, and uplift those who are down on their luck.
A Day in the Life of a CHW
For Nicole, a typical day involves helping clients access critical resources such as insurance and healthcare. One of her primary roles in the community is educating individuals about available resources they may not even know exist. From assisting clients in filling out applications to connecting them with essential services, her work is centered around breaking down barriers to care and empowering her community to thrive.
The Rewards of the Work
What Nicole finds most rewarding is witnessing the relief her clients feel when they receive the assistance they need. “Seeing the sigh of relief when clients get the help they need so they can focus on their health is everything,” she shares. Even in situations where she can’t provide immediate assistance, Nicole values the moments of connection—seeing her clients smile because they know someone cares and is trying to help.
A Memorable Story
Among the many impactful moments Nicole has experienced as a CHW, one story stands out. She recalls working with an older gentleman who had never had health insurance. A self-employed individual, he had managed to pay for the occasional doctor’s visit but found himself in a dire situation after suffering a heart attack and being diagnosed with congestive heart failure (CHF). Now wheelchair-bound, he and his ex-wife came to Nicole for help. By the end of their session, Nicole had successfully secured Medicaid for him, which also covered his substantial medical bills.
“When I told him he was approved, this tough, Al Pacino-looking guy broke down in tears,” Nicole recalls. “It made me realize that something I do on a regular basis can make a life-changing impact for someone else. It was a powerful and touching moment that deepened my passion for this work.”
Advice for Aspiring CHWs
Nicole’s advice to those considering a career as a Community Health Worker is practical and insightful. “Take some behavioral classes to learn how to read a person’s body language,” she recommends. She also emphasizes the importance of asking tough questions and using motivational interviewing techniques to gather meaningful information. These skills, she believes, are key to building trust and fostering impactful conversations.
About Nicole Clark
Nicole Clark serves as a Community Health Worker and COVID Equity Coordinator at Mid-State Health. She is a dedicated advocate for her community, driven by a desire to make resources accessible and to provide the support and guidance that people need to lead healthier lives.
Are you inspired by Nicole’s story? Learn more about becoming a CHW or supporting CHW initiatives in New Hampshire at https://nhchw.org/become-a-chw/
If you are a CHW and wish to be highlighted in our I AM A CHW campaign, please share your story here. Or email Dhaniele Duffy at dduffy@nchcnh.org.