The Safety
Net Learning
Collaborative
(SNLC)

The Safety Net Learning Collaborative (SNLC) is a coalition of 21 community health centers, primarily Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs), working together to strengthen the healthcare safety net across the Chicago region.

Since 2011, SNLC has been a trusted space for leaders and staff to connect, share expertise, and build collective capacity through peer learning and collaborative workforce development. Each year, more than 1,200 staff participate in shared learning and leadership programs that improve care for historically underserved communities.

  • Purpose: To equip Chicago’s safety net providers with the tools, knowledge, and partnerships they need to better serve patients and communities.

    Vision: A thriving and equitable health system where every safety net provider has the resources and workforce to deliver high-quality, accessible care, ensuring healthier futures across the Chicago region.

    • Foster peer-to-peer learning and cross-organizational collaboration.

    • Strengthen leadership pipelines and staff retention.

    • Expand workforce development strategies for frontline and administrative staff.

    • Build shared resources and improve operations across health centers.

    • Recruitment & hiring pipelines from local communities 

    • Wellness and workplace culture initiatives to improve retention 

    • Training for critical roles 

    • Career advancement pathways 

    • Mutual respect and confidential sharing among members

    • Willingness to explore difficult challenges together

    • Collaboration over competition

    • Equity-driven workforce development

Member Benefits

Learning

Participation in shared learning opportunities to workshop best strategies to navigate continuing and emergent challenges

Development

Access to leadership development trainings to develop a pipeline of effective leaders among SNLC centers

Involvement

Shared involvement in the growth of workforce development programs like the MA Training Program and Staff Engagement Survey

Opportunities

Opportunities for peer engagement
across all staff levels, from executives to frontline staff

Become a Member

Gain access to exclusive trainings, leadership development, and a network of peers committed to strengthening Chicago’s safety net.

Partner with Us

 Collaborate on workforce initiatives, community health projects, and shared learning opportunities.