OHF continues to evolve

Time Marches On

The Odessa Healthcare Foundation (OHF) was formed in 1988, according to its By Laws, to "identify the areas for improving the health care needs of Lincoln County Public Hospital District No. 1 and assist in obtaining and providing funds for same." It received 501(c) 3 status in 1989. With five (and soon six) board members, plus the assistance of many more community residents, it began the task of fulfilling that purpose. Early-on a community decision-making group was formed to work with Hospital District Commissioners to review and improve community healthcare. One early project was involvement with the District in promoting an Assisted Living facility. Other projects carried out in the early 90's included furnishing a Hospice Room, remodel of the Post-partum Room, purchase of electric beds and matching funds toward a Trauma Team Training class. All these were done through donations and fund-raising projects. The first fund-raiser was a Hole-in-One Golf Tournament. In 1992 the successful series of Wine Tasting Auction events had a humble beginning with net proceeds of a bit less than $1,100. Over the years several community leaders have served as president of the Board: Todd King, Jim Walter, Noreen Groh, Kelly Bruya , John Strohmaier, and Kim King.

We Say Goodbye

In January 2012, members of OHF Board were stunned to learn that Kim King was submitting her resignation not only as president, but as a member of the board as well, due to her husband taking a position in New Mexico and the family's move away from the community. Kim brought much enthusiasm and energy, many new ideas and innovations, and sparked a myriad of new projects. Board members will miss her very much, but her ideas and innovations will continue for many years. At the March 20th board meeting, OHF Board members honored Kim and said goodbyes.

We Say Hello

In January 2012 the board amended the By-Laws to increase the number of board members to eleven, followed by appointment of three new members: Carol Bell, Lise Ott, and Matt Kagele. The board feels privileged that these community leaders have chosen to commit their time, energy and skills to the purposes and activities of OHF. New members always bring a burst of enthusiasm and new ideas, and OHF desperately needed more help with our current projects, especially the upcoming Wine Tasting Auction.

Each new member was asked why (s)he accepted appointment to the Foundation Board. Matt said, "When I was originally asked to join the Healthcare Foundation I had to take a few days to think about it and do a little research on what main causes the foundation supported. After realizing that it supported all of the different areas of the hospital and clinic I thought that it would be a great organization to join I felt that by joining the Healthcare Foundation I could do my part to ensure that Odessa will have a strong healthcare system many years into the future, knowing how advantageous the Hospital and Clinic are to this community." Lise expressed that she is an enthusiastic and frequent user of local healthcare services. She is grateful they are here for her and realizes that there are few towns the size of Odessa where this complement of services is available. In addition to wanting to assist in supporting those services, she considers the Healthcare Foundation to be a successful organization that sponsors a long-standing successful event and she expects time of membership to be a learning experience. Carol said, "I have been a longtime supporter of the OHF and agree with their mission to the citizens of Odessa. We have all seen and benefited from their efforts, from the helipad to the equipment placed around town (the AEDs) so when I was asked to join the board I eagerly said yes. I think it is amazing what this small group has accomplished in the last 20 years and cannot wait to see what is coming next."

We Change

Nancy Floether was elected to the position of president of the board and Carol Schott will take on the responsibility of Wine Tasting Auction chairman. Roles will continue to evolve and change as in all healthy organizations.

Above All, We Continue

OHF has recently funded the purchase of new chairs for the clinic lobby and special mannequins for CPR training of Hospital District employees, emergency personnel and community members. An Advanced Babysitting Class is planned for this weekend. Of course, the Wine Tasting Auction is coming up May 4.

This year we have committed $25,000 proceeds towards the Hospital District's implementation of Electronic Health Records (EHR). EHR will provide accurate, up-to-the minute information that will be accessible not only by the team of caring professionals in Odessa, but also by specialists in other hospitals receiving patients. Those wishing to donate items, services or cash to this important fundraiser are encouraged to call 509-982-2157 to pledge their support. There's still time!