Community-Based Doula Training Programs

Across the country, health centers are integrating doula services and related roles, such as perinatal community health workers and peer support specialists, into their care models to support birthing families. These efforts improve maternal and infant outcomes while strengthening trust and engagement within the communities they serve.

From January to September 2025,  ACU’s national pilot program convened eight Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) to explore the opportunities, challenges, and strategies for launching community-based doula training programs. Through facilitated discussions, shared learning, and case studies from successful programs, participants examined key areas of consideration for establishing community-based doula training programs.

The action guide, Implementing Community-Based Doula Training Programs: An Action Guide for Strengthening Workforce Integration and Sustainable Maternal Health Models, was developed through a collaborative process that combined established frameworks, subject matter expertise, and insights from participating health centers. It provides step-by-step guidance on planning, implementing, and sustaining doula training programs and related workforce roles. It includes practical tools, detailed guidance on workforce, financial, and operational considerations, and full case studies.

Access the action guide and recorded session to bring these lessons to your organization.