We are thrilled to announce the long-awaited Governing Board elections of the Queen City Community Connect Coalition (QC4)! During our April bi-monthly meeting, we proudly welcomed a new slate of leaders who reflect not only our commitment to a 100% CHW-led leadership; but also, who embody our commitment to uplifting, empowering, and equipping CHWs to better serve Mecklenburg County.

Leading the charge as Chair is Dequia Rainey, a CCHW II with over 13 years of experience as a CHW. Dequia’s journey with Atrium Health as a team lead for over 3 years speaks volumes about her dedication to community health. Her personal experience with barriers and lack of assistance have fueled her passion to advocate and support others fading similar challenges. Dequia’s vision extends beyond her role as Chair, she aspires to be an ambassador, servant, and advocate for all CHWs in our community.

Joining her as Co-Chair is the dynamic Yalanda Williams, whose rich background as a Case Coordinator, whose rich background as a Case Coordinator for over 15 years prior to her role as a CCHW at Alliance Health brings valuable insights into addressing social determinants of health and individual needs. Yalanda’s commitment to fostering independence and her passion for community service make her a valuable asset to both the community she serves and our coalition.

Additionally, we are honored to have Avril Cabaniss and Tamika Williams as Special Advisors, bringing expertise and insight to discussions. This dynamic team was carefully chosen to steer the QC4 with dedication and passion, ensuring that the voices and needs of our community are heard and prioritized. Their collective experience and commitment to equity and justice will undoubtedly drive positive change within QC4 and beyond.

This momentous occasion underscores our belief in the importance of CHWs actively engaging in leadership and professional development opportunities. The benefits of this leadership opportunity extend beyond the individuals elected. Serving on the QC4 Governing Board provides a safe and nurturing environment for developing professionalism and leadership skills. Moreover, previous board members have gained professional development and leadership experience that has propelled them into new supervisory or managerial roles. By elevating the voices and contributions of CHWs, we not only strengthen our organizations but also empower communities to take charge of their own health and well-being.  

We invite you to join us in celebrating the growth and empowerment of CHWs in the Queen City Community Connect Coalition. Let us continue to support and uplift our CHW colleagues as they lead us toward a healthier more equitable future.

Stay tuned for future updates as we embark on this exciting journey together!