Author: Ashley Nanthavongsa-Mosley
The Public Health AmeriCorps (PHA) program provides an opportunity to recruit and train the next generation of public health leaders. PHA and other pathway programs offer invaluable opportunities for both host organizations and program participants. At the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services, the PHA program has fostered collaboration, professional growth, and a positive impact on community health. This blog explores the experiences of Ali Grossman, an AmeriCorps host site supervisor, and Caroline Noble, a dedicated AmeriCorps service member, as well as the lasting impact of the program on public health in Iowa.
Strengthening Public Health Through Service
Ali Grossman, host site supervisor at the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services, oversees AmeriCorps members working on crucial public health initiatives, such as the Chronic Disease Self-Management Program. Ali’s role includes guiding
members, setting goals, and enhancing their service experience. The Iowa Department of Health and Human Services got involved with PHA through their partnership with the National Association of Chronic Disease Directors, recognizing the program’s potential to expand public health reach and improve services.
A key highlight of the program has been the involvement of AmeriCorps members in coordinating workshops that assist individuals with chronic diseases. Caroline Noble, a Public Health AmeriCorps member, co-facilitates these workshops, which teach participants to manage fatigue, interpret food labels, and communicate effectively with health providers. Caroline’s contributions have helped extend these services to rural communities in Iowa, ensuring that individuals facing chronic health challenges receive the support they need.
Personal and Professional Growth Through Public Health AmeriCorps
For Caroline, being a part of the PHA program has profoundly impacted both her personal and professional development. She gained firsthand public health experience by facilitating workshops and engaging with health professionals. More importantly,
Caroline learned how to facilitate meetings—a skill she hadn’t anticipated developing but found invaluable in her career journey. Through this role, Caroline also gained insight into the everyday realities of public health practice, broadening her understanding of how public health programs operate and making her more confident in her career path. Caroline’s efforts to engage participants during workshops garnered positive feedback, making her feel that her work is truly making a difference. Whether it's educating someone on managing their condition or building new partnerships, Caroline’s impact extends beyond individual workshops, fostering lasting improvements in community health.
Expanding Impact and Building Connections
The PHA program has also enhanced the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services' outreach capabilities. By hosting AmeriCorps members like Caroline, the agency has been able to reach new communities, strengthen partnerships, and improve program visibility. As Caroline co-facilitates workshops and contributes to recruitment efforts, she helps expand the agency’s ability to serve individuals across Iowa, particularly in rural areas where access to such programs might be limited.
The Future of Public Health and AmeriCorps
Looking ahead, both Ali and Caroline emphasized the importance of pathway programs in bridging the gap between education and real-world public health practice. Through PHA, members gain critical experience that prepares them for careers in public health while directly addressing pressing community health needs. The program's ability to nurture emerging public health professionals and connect them with local communities ensures a sustainable and effective workforce for the future.
For anyone considering becoming a host for a pathway program, Ali advises that the benefits — ranging from enhanced program outcomes to strengthened community partnerships — are immeasurable. Likewise, Caroline encourages future applicants to be open-minded, embrace new opportunities, and take full advantage of the experiences that come with being part of these programs.
Inspiring Future Leaders in Public Health
Pathway programs are not just about service; they’re about growth, learning, and creating a lasting impact on the health of communities. Whether you’re an organization looking to expand your capacity or an individual aspiring to build a career in public health, PHA and similar programs offer an invaluable pathway to making a difference in both your personal and professional life.
About the Author
Ashley is the Senior Analyst of Workforce at the Association of State and Territorial Health Officials (ASTHO), specializing in recruitment and workforce pathway programs. She holds a Bachelor’s in Community Health and a Master’s in Public Health from George Mason University.
Ashley’s public health journey began with volunteer work at Inova Health System, focusing on geriatric care, then evolved into teaching students with intellectual disabilities. She later worked in HIV and STI prevention, harm reduction, and community outreach at a nonprofit, where she led a sexual health education program, supervised public health interns, and coordinated COVID-19 vaccination efforts for undocumented communities.
At ASTHO, Ashley leads workforce initiatives, including Public Health AmeriCorps and the Workforce HR Peer Network, supporting WF/HR leaders from health departments nationwide.