COVID-19 Community Coordinators

 
(Photo credit: Ivy Vainio)

The COVID-19 Community Coordinator Initiative funded community organizations to help connect people to COVID-19 testing, vaccines, and other resources. As communities moved beyond the pandemic, coordinators also helped people access health recovery services and other support.

COVID Community Coordinators (CCCs) worked in communities that were disproportionately affected by COVID-19, including communities of color, American Indian communities, LGBTQ communities, and Minnesotans with disabilities. Community organizations played a vital role because they are trusted by the people they serve. They understand their communities' cultures, strengths, and needs, making it easier to connect people with information, services, and support. This trusted, community-led approach helped address both the immediate impacts of COVID-19 and the longstanding health inequities that the pandemic made worse.

The Health Equity Strategy and Innovation Division's Community Engagement team supported these partnerships. After nearly six years of working alongside community organizations across Minnesota, the initiative concluded in June 2026.