Certified Community Resource Specialist (CCRS)

For Community Health Workers, Students, Volunteers & Emerging Community Leaders

Course Summary

The Certified Community Resource Specialist (CCRS) program equips volunteers, students, and frontline community workers with the skills needed to identify, verify, and connect people to essential local resources. Through a blend of community-health fundamentals, resource-vetting training, and real-world practice inside the CommunityLink directory, learners will gain the confidence and expertise to serve as trusted connectors within their communities.

What You’ll Learn

The foundations of community health, equity, and social determinants of health

• How lack of access to essential services impacts individuals & families
• How to identify credible businesses, nonprofits, and programs
• Skills to vet listings for accuracy, legitimacy, and safety
• Ethical guidelines, privacy, and cultural sensitivity when serving the public
• How to add and update listings in CommunityLink
• Crisis-response protocols for disasters, emergencies, and scams
• How to interact with clients respectfully & avoid misinformation

Who This Is For

• Community Health Worker students
• Volunteers needing verified service hours
• Public health, social work, and human services majors
• High school community service participants
• Anyone passionate about helping their community

Course Outcomes

• Earn your Certified Community Resource Specialist (CCRS) credential
• Access priority volunteer & internship opportunities
• Serve as an official provider-connector within CommunityLink
• Contribute to impact reports that strengthen communities statewide
• Build real experience that strengthens resumes and job prospects