Training and Course Opportunities

A Community Health Education Resource Person (CHERP) is a trained community member who is passionate about helping the community by providing information, support and basic health education and resources to those who need help. The CHERP training is the foundation to the Community Health Worker (CHW) program of the WVSOM CRCH. A CHERP-trained CHW:

• may be a volunteer or paid CHW specifically trained to help friends, neighbors, and community members develop a healthier lifestyle.
• is trained to answer basic questions about health, disease, nutrition, physical activity, and health behaviors.
• may partner with doctors, nurses, dietitians, personal trainers, and others in promoting health.

A CHERP can train at one or more levels:

1. Wellness
2. Health Promotion
3. Disease Prevention & Management

Anyone 18 years of age or older with at least a high school diploma, general equivalency degree or higher education can train as a CHERP. No experience or specific background is necessary to participate in the training. For participation in the online training, knowledge of basic computer skills is recommended.

CHERP training is provided through the CRCH. CHERP Level 1: Wellness and CHERP Level 2 Health Promotion are available online. In some cases, trainings may be implemented in-person.

Register Here

 The Prevention Technology Transfer Center (PTTC) Network provides high-quality, evidence-based training and technical assistance for prevention professionals, coalitions, educators, healthcare providers, and community organizations. While Preston County is served by the Central East PTTC, many webinars, online courses, and professional development opportunities offered through the PTTC Network are available at no cost to participants nationwide. Topics include substance misuse prevention, mental health promotion, coalition development, evidence-based practices, youth engagement, evaluation, cultural competence, and emerging prevention trends. The PTTC Network is an excellent resource for individuals and organizations seeking to strengthen their prevention knowledge, earn continuing education credits, and build capacity to implement effective community prevention strategies. 

For a calendar of trainings click Here

West Virginia Prevention Solutions (WVPS) provides training, technical assistance, and consultation to strengthen prevention efforts across West Virginia. Working with local coalitions, schools, healthcare organizations, and community partners, WVPS offers workshops on evidence-based prevention strategies, coalition development, strategic planning, community needs assessment, grant development, youth engagement, and substance misuse prevention. Through individualized technical assistance and statewide professional development opportunities, WVPS helps communities build sustainable prevention systems, implement best practices, evaluate program effectiveness, and strengthen local capacity to improve health outcomes. Their expertise and ongoing support make WVPS a valuable resource for organizations committed to creating healthier, safer, and more resilient communities throughout West Virginia.

To learn more click here

 This series of interactive Truth About Drugs courses has been designed so you can learn the truth about drugs at your own pace. Find out what drugs are, what they are made of, their short- and long-term effects, and view real stories from real people about each of the most popular drugs of choice. 

To begin, click here. 

 In addition to the required Health Permit to operate, establishments must insure that all food service workers obtain a Food Handler's Permit. Classes for Food Handlers are conducted monthly at the health department or can be obtained anytime by going to StateFoodSafety™ - Food Handlers Card (print certificate and bring to Health Department for credit). These classes are designed to educate the proper techniques, methods, and requirements of a food establishment and it's workers. 

Click here to register