Health equity cohort 2.0
Advancing regional well-being and community-led change, together
The Health Equity Learning Cohort is an exciting initiative bringing together diverse organizations, community groups, and leaders to co-create a shared vision for health and well-being in our region. Through shared learning and collaboration, participants will explore and evaluate strategies that help our communities thrive.
The first cohort laid the foundation for regional health equity work by fostering critical conversations, building relationships, and identifying key themes to address structural barriers. Insights from that work, along with the recently published Health Equity Improvement Plan, provide a roadmap for the next phase of collective action.
This next iteration will focus on bridging gaps between formal and informal systems of care, fostering belonging and mutual understanding, and driving community-led solutions.
What will Cohort members contribute to?
Cohort members will:
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Engage in shared learning: Meet regularly to discuss strategies, learn from funded pilot projects, and refine collective priorities.
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Evaluate pilot project outcomes: Provide insights and recommendations on which community-led initiatives should receive further investment to scale their impact.
Why should I join the Cohort?
By joining the Cohort, you will have the opportunity to:
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Contribute to meaningful collaboration: Connect with peers, community leaders, and organizations committed to advancing health equity.
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Shape regional strategies: Help influence future health equity investments and solutions in our region.
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Drive impactful change: Contribute to a movement that uplifts community-led initiatives and fosters long-term, sustainable improvements in health equity.
Ready to apply?
Interested organizations can apply by submitting an online application by March 21, 2025.
What's the time commitment?
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Duration: One year (April 2025 – April 2026)
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Monthly engagement: 2-3 hours per month
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Meeting format:
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Monthly virtual sessions
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Quarterly in-person convenings across the region
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Tentative in-person sessions:
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April 24, 2025 (kickoff)
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July 2025
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October 2025 (mid-year check-in)
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January 2026
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April 2026 (closing celebration)
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Limited financial assistance is available to support organizations that may need it to participate. Applicants can indicate their needs in the application process.
Who can apply?
We welcome applications from a diverse range of organizations representing various sectors who are committed to advancing health equity and are in alignment with CHOICE’s Health Equity Improvement Plan. Applicant examples can include, but are not limited to:
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Healthcare providers, public health agencies, social service organizations
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Grassroots organizations, community groups, and advocacy networks
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Tribal Nations and Indigenous-led organizations
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Organizations must operate within central western Washington, including the geographic boundaries of various counties and indigenous nations. These include Cowlitz, Grays Harbor, Lewis, Mason, Pacific, Thurston, and Wahkiakum counties, as well as the Chinook Indian Nation, Confederated Tribes of Chehalis, Cowlitz Indian Tribe, Nisqually Indian Tribe, Shoalwater Bay Indian Tribe, Skokomish Indian Tribe, Squaxin Island Tribe, and Quinault Indian Nation.
What's the application timeline?
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Applications open: February 28
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Informational webinar: March 7 from 11 a.m. – 12 p.m.
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Learn more about the cohort’s goals, guiding framework, and application process.
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Application deadline: March 21
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Review period: March 21-28
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Notification of selection: By April 4
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Member orientation: April 15-17
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Cohort kickoff session: April 24
What's the selection and evaluation criteria?
Applicants for the cohort will be selected based on the following criteria:
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Alignment with themes: Applicants should demonstrate a clear commitment to bridging care systems, fostering belonging, and advancing community-led solutions.
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Readiness to participate: Organizations should have the capacity to engage fully and bring relevant expertise or experience.
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Diversity of perspectives: Aiming for a balance of participants from formal systems (e.g., healthcare providers) and informal systems (e.g., grassroots organizations).
Questions?
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Check out our Frequently Asked Questions document to learn more
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Contact Trish Cerza, Network Development Manager, at cerzap@crhn.org