*Registration payment includes Credit Cards and Interfund Transfers ONLY.
Community health ambassadors, community and faith-based leaders, health educators, grassroot and neighborhood organizers, non-profit and community-based organizations, wellness, mental health and other health advocates.
The 2nd Annual Community Engagement Ambassador Institute is a two-day leadership and learning experience designed to equip community champions, public health ambassadors, and faith-based leaders with the knowledge, skills, and partnerships needed to strengthen health and wellness across Mecklenburg County. Through interactive sessions, networking, wellness activities, and a vendor expo, ambassadors will gain practical knowledge and tools, build meaningful relationships, and leave empowered to elevate health in the communities they serve.
Day 1: Public Health Track
Thursday, March 26, 2026 / Public Health & Leadership Development
Click HERE to learn more about Day 1.
THEME: Engage, Empower, Elevate
Empowers ambassadors with core health knowledge, leadership tools, and community engagement strategies. Participants will explore prevention, emerging health issues, and advocacy, while learning how to use their voice, influence policy, and connect residents to resources. Networking and a vendor expo will highlight local partners and programs that support healthier communities. Breakfast, snacks, and lunch will be provided.
Day 2: Faith-Based Track
Friday, March 27, 2026 / Faith-Based Wellness & Community Resilience
Click HERE to learn more about Day 2.
THEME: Faith in Action: Building Healthier Congregations & Stronger Communities
Centers the powerful role of faith communities in supporting health and healing. Through devotion, skill-building sessions, and sharing learning, participants will explore wellness ministry development, mental health in congregations, and partnerships that strengthen spiritual and physical well-being. Networking and a vendor expo will highlight real-world examples of faith in action for healthier congregations and neighborhoods. Breakfast, snacks, and lunch will be provided.
Become a Community Engagement Ambassador!
Are you passionate about making a difference in Mecklenburg County?
Apply now to join the 2nd Annual Community Engagement Ambassador Institute!
Opportunities available:
• Attendee: Participate in one or both days of the Institute.
• Facilitator/Presenter: Share your expertise and lead sessions.
• Vendor/Exhibitor: Showcase your organization or services.
How to Apply:
Click HERE to complete the Community Engagement Ambassador Application.
Important Dates:
• Application Deadline: January 5, 2026
• Notification of Acceptance: By Friday, January 30, 2026
Eligibility:
Applicants must live or work in Mecklenburg County.
Ready to inspire change and connect with fellow leaders? Submit your application today and be part of this impactful event!
Full Agenda coming soon!
Location
South Piedmont AHEC
5039 Airport Center Parkway, Building K
Charlotte, NC 28208
Classroom 17/18
Continuing Education Credits
0.6 CEUs
6.0 Contact Hours
National Commission for Health Education Credentialing
Application for CHES® (entry-level) / MCHES® (advanced level) Category I continuing education contact hours (CECH) has been made to the National Commission for Health Education Credentialing, Inc. (NCHEC).
Certified in Public Health by National Board of Public Health Examiners
Up to 6.0 CPH Recertification Credits may be earned per each day attended.
Click HERE to learn more about the National Board of Public Health Examiners and the credit submission process.
Sponsors and Partners
Institute Creator
Gwendolyn Devins, MPH,CCHW
Community Engagement Manager, Mecklenburg County Public Health
Understanding the Why
“Rooted in my resilience and born from a deep passion to engage community, this Institute is meant to empower! It's more than a training—it's the start of a movement joined by those closest to the issues." - Gwendolyn Devins
Institute Facilitators
Charlene Whitaker-Brown, DNP, MSN, FNP-C, PMHNP-BC, CHFN, RN
CEO & Founder, The Mindheart Institute and Wellness Center 
Jada Jackson, MEd
Associate Director of Academic and Community Partnerships
Registering for the conference gives South Piedmont AHEC permission to share your information with conference partners and Mecklenburg County Public Health. Registering for and attending a South Piedmont AHEC program authorizes South Piedmont AHEC to take audio, video, and/or still images to be used for promotional and educational purposes. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact your South Piedmont AHEC team member.
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