Name: National Health Center Week
Start: 2026-08-02T00:00:00-05:00
End: 2026-08-08T23:59:59-05:00

Every August, the National Association of Community Health Centers (NACHC) sponsors National Health Center Week (NHCW). The week is designed to celebrate and increase awareness of America’s 1,400 Community Health Centers. National Health Center Week is an opportunity to highlight the commitment and passion of Community Health Center staff. It also recognizes board members and supporters. These are those who make it possible to provide quality, comprehensive healthcare services to more than 30 million patients. They provide this care across 14,500 communities annually.

Community Health Centers serve as the beacon of strength, service, and care in their communities. For example, in moments of pain and loss, they offer support and love. In moments of triumph, they offer hope and a vision for the future. Celebrate the uniqueness of your community on National Health Center Week.

Coordinating NHCW celebrations around the corresponding focus days showcase the innovative ways Community Health Centers provide high-quality care. NHCW also helps to improve health outcomes, and narrow health disparities in their communities. However, events do not have to coincide exactly with respective dates. They are simply meant to serve as a roadmap to enhance activities. Coordinating local efforts around themes helps maximize the national impact of the collective Community Health Center message. Wear a blue pin, fabric ribbon, or silicone wristband to call attention to this health week.

About the Health Center Advocacy Network

Community Health Centers provide comprehensive care to more than 30 million patients at 14,500 service delivery sites in every U.S. state and territory. They are not-for-profit organizations driven by the mission to improve the well-being of the communities they serve. By providing highly coordinated and integrated care, Community Health Centers save the healthcare system more than $24 billion annually in reduced emergency, hospital, and specialty care costs.

More than 80,000 advocates strong, they are a robust grassroots network fighting for equitable policies and sustainable funding for America’s Community Health Centers.

What resources are available to assist in planning NHCW activities?

Health centers are encouraged to use NACHC’s tools and resources as a starting point to plan activities and mobilize their community in celebration of National Health Center Week. Some may choose to partner with state/regional primary care associations in their planning. Health centers can also coordinate events with other community organizations (don’t forget to enlist support from volunteers and local businesses). While not all organizations have the capacity to plan large community events, the overall objective is to build awareness and support for the Community Health Center program. Consider pitching a local newspaper to write a feature about the impact of your health center’s role in meeting community health needs. Or invite an elected official to tour your facilities. Whatever you can do counts!

Is National Health Center Week officially recognized?

In recent years, Congress has unanimously passed resolutions calling upon the nation to celebrate National Health Center Week and recognize the contributions of America’s Community Health Centers. The President of the United States has also issued formal proclamations in tribute to the occasion. Organizations are encouraged to work with their state primary care association and local governing bodies to secure proclamations celebrating the role of Community Health Centers in expanding access to affordable and quality care in their communities. Click here to learn more about seeking public and civic support.

Why is National Health Center Week observed in August?

Congress traditionally takes a recess in August, allowing U.S. Representatives and Senators to return to their home states and congressional districts. This is normally the time just before final decisions are made regarding appropriations and a host of other issues that may affect Community Health Center programs. Members of Congress are eager to meet and hear from their constituents at public events. Also, August is an ideal time for health centers to reach families and children with health fairs, screenings, and back-to-school immunizations.