I AM A CHW Spotlight: Jessica Lemieux

At the heart of community care and advocacy lies Jessica Lemieux, a dedicated Community Health Worker (CHW) at Listen Community Services. Jessica’s passion for fostering a stronger community drives her to make a difference every day.

A Passion for Community

Jessica’s journey into the CHW field stems from her deep desire to be part of a more connected and resilient community. For her, being a CHW is not just a career but a calling. “My passion is to be part of a stronger community,” she says, a sentiment that fuels her daily commitment to those she serves.

A Day in the Life

Jessica’s role as a CHW is dynamic and ever-changing. From assisting individuals with housing and state benefits to helping them access crucial resources like ID cards and medical appointments, Jessica’s work addresses a wide array of community needs. Her efforts also extend to providing home visits, facilitating access to internet and phone services for those at medical risk or unhoused, and supporting individuals with budgeting, credit building, and criminal annulments. Each task underscores her dedication to ensuring that community members have the tools and support to thrive.

The Rewards of Service

What makes Jessica’s work most rewarding is seeing the tangible results of her efforts. “Seeing individuals succeed when obtaining employment, gaining financial stability, maintaining affordable housing, accessing education, or achieving good health and wellness is incredibly fulfilling,” she shares. Each success story is a testament to the impact of her work and the resilience of those she supports.

A Memorable Impact

One of Jessica’s most memorable experiences as a CHW involves a gentleman in his 80s who had been unhoused for most of his adult life. Due to a traumatic childhood experience of institutionalization, he had never seen a medical provider and lived a transient life in a van or short-term rented campers. Jessica worked tirelessly to help him secure affordable housing and access medical care, even accompanying him to his first few appointments to ease his fears. Today, he is housed and attends his medical appointments independently, free from the fear of institutionalization. Stories like this exemplify Jessica’s dedication and compassion.

Advice for Aspiring CHWs

For those considering a career as a CHW, Jessica has this advice: “Becoming a CHW is one of the most rewarding careers you can begin.” Her words reflect the profound satisfaction that comes from helping others and building stronger communities.

Jessica Lemieux’s work with Listen Community Services highlights the transformative power of community health workers. Her story is a powerful reminder of the difference one person can make in the lives of many. Thank you, Jessica, for your unwavering dedication and service to your community.

Are you inspired by Jessica’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.