MCD Global Health has been awarded a five-year, $1 million grant from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). This grant recognizes MCD as an expert in capacity building at the national level, a designation that will enhance MCD’s ability to support and strengthen the nation’s public health system.

With this grant, MCD will expand its comprehensive capacity-building support, including technical assistance, training, and more, to community-based organizations across the country.

This work is crucial in supporting the community-based public health workforce, a key player in managing emergency responses, addressing chronic conditions, reducing health disparities, and advancing health equity, especially in underserved communities, such as rural areas and communities of color.

“Whether it’s a peer support worker, a health navigator, a community health worker, or someone else working to improve the health and well-being of people in their community, we all need access to current, high-quality learning opportunities for the changing health landscape,” said Elizabeth Foley, co-director of MCD’s U.S. Programs. “This is essential in our efforts to improve health outcomes and reduce health disparities.”

For decades, MCD has trained thousands of public health professionals through tailored training, technical assistance, and capacity-building programs.

“This is a game-changer for MCD,” Foley said. “We have been providing technical assistance around the country, and this official designation as a national technical advisor allows us to significantly grow our reach and impact in the public health and health care landscape.”