MCD Global Health (MCD) is proud to announce its selection as one of only 48 public health organizations nationwide to receive funding from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to bolster public health systems and services. This cooperative agreement is the largest umbrella funding at CDC and positions MCD as a national technical advisor, providing community-based organizations across the U.S. with capacity building assistance, including training and technical support.

Supporting Frontline Health Workers

In the face of evolving challenges, such as workforce shortages and the need for stronger public health infrastructure, the community-based public health workforce is essential. MCD’s work under this opportunity will strengthen that workforce, which plays a pivotal role in managing emergency responses, addressing chronic conditions, reducing health disparities, and advancing health equity.

“When we couple a strong and nimble workforce with modern health care infrastructure, we are able to better prepare our providers to deliver quality care,” said Maine Senator Angus King. “While Maine’s rural communities present unique challenges in terms of accessing affordable care, this award from the CDC will bolster critical frontline work here in Maine and across the U.S., demonstrating that Maine is a national leader in strengthening public health in rural and underserved communities.”

Proven Expertise in Training and Capacity Building

For decades, MCD has trained thousands of public health professionals through tailored training, technical assistance, and capacity building programs. Whether it is equipping health care professionals with blood pressure monitoring skills, training tomorrow’s health care workforce to utilize telehealth solutions to improve health access and outcomes or offering self-paced training to community health workers, MCD brings a wealth of expertise to the forefront.

“This is a game changer for MCD,” said Elizabeth Foley, co-director of MCD’s U.S. Programs. “We have been providing technical assistance around the country, and this official designation as a national technical advisor partner allows us to significantly grow our reach and impact in the public health and health care landscapes.”

Expanding Capacity, Building Partnerships

Through the CDC cooperative agreement, MCD will provide tailored training and support to community-based organizations working in their communities to address diverse public health issues. Core funding of $1 million over the next five years will serve as a foundation for these efforts. Additionally, MCD, and the other designated national partners, will have exclusive access to supplemental and emergency funding for high-impact public health projects.

Join Us in Building Stronger Public Health Systems

MCD invites public health organizations, community-based groups, and other stakeholders to collaborate in efforts to strengthen the nation’s public health infrastructure. Stay informed about the latest training opportunities, technical assistance offerings, and ways to get involved by subscribing to the MCD mailing list. Together, we can make meaningful strides in improving health outcomes and reducing disparities in communities across the country.

This program is supported by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) as part of a financial assistance award totaling $1 million with 100 percent funded by CDC/HHS. The contents are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the official views of, nor an endorsement, by CDC/HHS, or the U.S. Government.

Read more information about this cooperative agreement

Read the CDC Newsroom press release