This article was published in the Lynden Tribune.
September marks the third anniversary of Lynden Healthcare Education, which offers free nursing assistant training to Whatcom County residents. The program is tailored for long-term care CNAs to help meet the community’s health care needs.
Since its launch in 2022, LHE has graduated 140 students, empowering them with the knowledge and skills to become proficient nursing assistants.
Classes are offered at no cost to select students, thanks to support provided by the Christian Health Care Center Foundation, which raises funds for educational training programs and faith-based care provided at CHCC in Lynden.
Dianne Anderson, LPN, instructor of the program, was a clinical instructor of nursing at Whatcom Community College from 2009 to 2025. She taught CNA classes at Christian Health Care Center from 2016 to 2022, before the program expanded and transitioned to Lynden Healthcare Education.
“Our goal is simple: equip people with the training and confidence they need to serve in long-term care,” Anderson said. “The need for compassionate and skilled nursing assistants remains high, and we’re here to be part of the solution.”
Students consistently praise Anderson’s knowledge, clear instruction and teaching style infused with care and humor.
The program continues to see strong demand. Anderson’s experience and reputation, paired with class sizes limited by Washington state law to 10 students, mean each session fills quickly.
Those interested in applying for Lynden Healthcare Education’s free CNA training program can sign up to receive an email notification when enrollment opens at https://lyndenhealthed.org/enroll/.
About Lynden Healthcare Education
Lynden Healthcare Education offers a free training program designed to prepare students for nursing assistant certification and employment in Whatcom County’s long-term care facilities. With small class sizes, hands-on training and a mission-driven approach, the program supports both students and the community by addressing local health care staffing needs.
