CHRISTUS Community Connector

The CHRISTUS Community Connections program began in September 2025 in response to the need to address health related social needs in the communities in which CHRISTUS Health services. Community Connections addresses the social determinants of health by providing patients and community members in Texas, Louisiana, Arkansas, and New Mexico with screening, education, referral, and navigation services to address needs identified, linking individuals between health and social services.

Working collaboratively as part of a team of Ameri Corps Community Connector Members, Community Health Workers, clinicians, and administrative staff, the Ameri Corps Community Connector I provides culturally competent, patient-centered screening, referral, and navigation services to connect individuals and families with appropriate social and medical resources. The role includes developing care plans, identifying barriers and goals, supporting communication between individuals and service providers, and delivering education on health, wellness, and community resources.

The Community Connector I also collects and maintains referral and outcome data in accordance with established protocols and confidentiality requirements and supports initiatives aligned with the Community Health Needs Assessment and Community Health Improvement Plan. CHRISTUS Health is an international Catholic, faith-based non‑profit health and wellness system dedicated to extending the health ministry of Jesus Christ with a particular concern for improving the health outcomes and resolving the social needs of historically underserved individuals.

• Screen for social needs, develop action plans, and link individuals to appropriate community resources through referral and navigation services.
• Establish trusting relationships through ongoing visits and/or follow-up phone calls.
• Educate and inform individuals about healthcare, social and community resources, wellness, and disease prevention.
• Obtain and maintain up-to-date information about resources in the community.
• Enhance care quality by coordinating activities and aiding communication between individuals and healthcare and/or community resource providers.
• Assist with chronic disease self-management, medication adherence, and primary care access.
• Collaborate with community partners to obtain feedback on the results of referral and navigation services.
• Complete appropriate documentation while protecting the confidentiality of personal information.

• Training
• Living Allowance
• Certification as a CHW
• Education award upon successful completion of service
• Childcare assistance if eligible
• Health Coverage

• Permits working at another job during off hours
• Car recommended
• Permits attendance at school during off hours
• Uniforms provided and required

• Health

• Communications
• Social Services
• Team Work
• General Skills
• Public Health
• Computers/Technology