Empowering Communities: Paula Combs Joins the Ranks of Certified Health Workers
Voices of Hope Maryland is proud to spotlight one of our newest Community Health Worker (CHW) graduates—Paula Combs, a dedicated professional with the Cecil County Health Department, whose journey to certification is nothing short of inspiring.
At 60 years old, Paula brought to the CHW Program a lifetime of service, experience, and compassion. For over 14 years, she served in Medical Transportation, ensuring patients across Cecil County could access the care they needed. But in early 2024, Paula faced serious health challenges that would change the course of her life. Following a near-tragic accident and a hospitalization due to undetected kidney failure, she found herself navigating a complex recovery process while managing mounting medical concerns and caregiving responsibilities for her family.
Even in the face of adversity, Paula never lost her passion for helping others. When a new opportunity opened within the Health Department as a Community Health Outreach Worker, Paula seized it. Despite initial nerves about returning to school after decades away, she stepped into the CHW Training Program with courage and commitment. “I told my supervisor, ‘I can do this’—even while thinking to myself, ‘Can I really?’”
Her journey through the program was filled with growth, learning, and connection. Though she started out unsure of technology and hesitant to speak up in class, Paula quickly found her stride thanks to a welcoming environment built on encouragement and shared purpose. The stories she heard from peers and trainers opened her heart and mind in powerful ways. “I learned that no matter how long you’ve believed something, hearing someone else’s story can change your perspective.”
Throughout her training, Paula deepened her understanding of harm reduction, care coordination, and advocacy. She gained critical skills in communication, de-escalation, and navigating systems of care—all while reflecting on her own life experiences as a caregiver, EMT, community volunteer, and mother of a child with complex medical needs.
Paula’s innate empathy and fierce determination were evident at every step. Her passion for connecting people to resources—whether it's Narcan, Energy Assistance, or children’s literacy programs—is matched only by her eagerness to keep learning and growing in her role. As she puts it, “If I don’t know the answer, I want to find out—so I can help the next person who asks.”
And now, after completing Maryland’s accredited CHW curriculum, field practicum, and rigorous state requirements, Paula has officially earned her CHW certification. This is more than a professional milestone—it’s a celebration of resilience, growth, and purpose.
We are honored to have been a part of Paula’s journey and grateful for the leadership she brings to our CHW network. Her words say it best:
“I’m able to look at people differently now. Every life matters, not just yours. Voices of Hope rocks!”
Congratulations, Paula! Your impact has only just begun—and we’re proud to walk this path with you.
If you have a passion for helping others in the community and becoming a beacon of hope for those who are dealing with substance use or behavioral health disorders and are interested in getting your certification as a Community Health Worker or Certified Peer Recovery Specialist, please visit our website: https://www.voicesofhopemaryland.org/
And fill out the Interest Form on our "Training & Certification" page.
