The CCHW was launched in 2013 to grow opportunities for peer-based workforce strategies. Specifically, the center was created to develop and support the community-based health workforce and CHWs.

The Zhilphia “Zee” Turner Center for Community Health Workers (Zee Turner Center) is a regional hub of excellence dedicated to advancing Community Health Worker (CHW) workforce development, innovation, and sustainability. 

Launched in 2013, and informed by lessons from CHW interventions IPHI began in 2011, the Center was created to expand peer-based workforce strategies and strengthen the community-based health workforce across Washington, DC, Maryland, and Virginia. In 2023, the Center was renamed in honor of the late Zhilphia “Zee” Turner, a respected and influential CHW whose legacy continues to guide our mission.

What We Do 

The Zee Turner Center serves as a comprehensive resource for CHWs and the organizations that support them. Our work includes: 

• High-quality training and professional development
  We strengthen entry-level CHW training programs and provide ongoing continuing education to help CHWs grow, advance, and lead within their communities. 

• Network building and regional collaboration
  We bring together CHWs, employers, agencies, and community partners to share best practices, strengthen support systems, and expand opportunities for peer learning. 

• Program development and technical assistance
  Organizations that want to create or expand CHW programs turn to us for guidance, implementation support, and evidence-based strategies. 

• Innovation and research for emerging CHW models
  We conduct research, convene experts, and share cutting-edge approaches that elevate CHW roles across health and social service systems. 

• Policy and sustainability support
  The Center advocates for policies that strengthen and sustain the CHW workforce, ensuring long-term viability and impact. 

As a regional entity with 15 years of experience, we offer a clear, coordinated picture of the CHW workforce and provide strategic insights to help partners collaborate and advance together. 

Who was Zee Turner?  

The Zee Turner Center was named in memory of CHW Zhilphia “Zee” Turner. Zee Turner was an IPHI employee who dedicated 15 years of her life to serving the Washington, DC, area. As someone who lived with a chronic health condition for 24 years and overcame adversity, Zee used her experience to help communities with substance use addiction and HIV/AIDS.

“When I get notice that people are out of care, I call them. If I get no answer, I send them a letter – or I go knock on their doors. I try to fix some of the barriers that led them out of care and I work with their case workers to get them back to taking their medicines.” 

– Zee Turner in the Washington Informer

Zee was an educator, mentor, and advocate through IPHI’s Positive Pathways initiative. Her unwavering dedication and genuine care for those around her made her a beloved figure in the community. At the 2014 Unity National CHW Conference, Zee was awarded the posthumous Esther M. Holderby CHW Special Recognition Award.

IPHI proudly honors her CHW legacy by naming this regional center for excellence after her. To learn more about her legacy and life, visit: