The Chia Community Health Service and Health Education Program was developed in 2006 to build upon the existing Chia Family Health Fellowship Program to address unmet health needs among vulnerable populations in communities in Hunan, through a structured program that relies on volunteers for program activities. It is co-sponsored by the Yale-China Association, Xiangya School of Medicine, and the School of Public Health of Central South University.

The program builds upon the Fellows' interests and skill sets to develop projects that directly address local health needs in Hunan province. Working as volunteers outside of their professional settings, the Chia Fellows assume leadership roles and organize other volunteers, including students, retired health care professionals, and other members of the community to work together and serve the underprivileged. The Community Outreach Program strives to:

Promote the general health of disadvantaged populations in Hunan communities through a variety of health promotion and service activities;

Promote community service and volunteerism through activities that address the health needs of community members;

Further develop the capacity of individuals involved in the program; and

Create a model for other volunteer-based community outreach programs.