NACHC Kicks Off National Health Center Week 2026: 250 Years of American Innovation, Decades of Community Health Center Dedication

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Jeanie Arnold

[email protected]

BETHESDA, MD - August 4, 2026 - As the United States marks its 250th anniversary, the National Association of Community Health Centers (NACHC) is celebrating another enduring American success story: over 60 years of Community Health Centers (CHCs) delivering innovative, accessible, high-quality care to Americans throughout the country.

Throughout National Health Center Week (August 2-8), health centers across the country will host more than 1,300 community events, health screenings, educational programs, and celebrations recognizing the patients, providers, staff, and partners who make this work possible. This year's theme, "Building Innovative Care Where It Matters Most," highlights how CHCs continue to reimagine primary care - expanding access, embracing new technologies, and delivering patient-centered solutions that strengthen communities across the country.

"For 250 years, America has been defined by its ability to adapt, solve problems, and build a better future for all Americans," said Kyu Rhee, MD, MPP, President and CEO at NACHC. "For over 60 years, Community Health Centers have embodied that same spirit. Serving more than 52.3 million people nationwide - 1 in 7 Americans, including 1 in 3 in rural America - CHCs continue to innovate, from pioneering new models of care to expanding behavioral health services, so that every person has access to quality care regardless of where you live."

This annual event highlights the commitment and passion of health center patients, staff, board members, and supporters who make it possible for the CHC workforce of 340,000 at 1,526 health centers to provide effective, comprehensive care to patients across more than 17,400 communities.

As America looks to the next 250 years, CHCs remain at the forefront of building the future of health care through innovation, accessibility and a commitment to meeting the evolving needs of every community. NACHC encourages policymakers, community leaders and Americans nationwide to visit their local health center and see firsthand how health centers are building stronger, healthier communities for generations to come.

To learn more about National Health Center Week and find events in your community, visit HealthCenterWeek.org.

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About NACHC

NACHC's mission is to champion Community Health Centers delivering affordable, effective, comprehensive primary care that is community-driven and improves health for all. For more information, visit https://www.nachc.org.