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Better Together
St. Luke’s supports Idaho nonprofits during record-breaking Idaho Gives — and beyond
St. Luke’s supported this year’s record-breaking Idaho Gives campaign, sponsoring a campaign that helped raise more than $5 million for more than 600 participating nonprofits. But the health system’s support of Idaho communities extends far beyond the four-day fundraising event.
As a longtime community investor, St. Luke’s provides year-round funding, partnership and leadership to nonprofit organizations tackling the social drivers of health, factors like food security, physical activity, housing and family support. They are factors that account for roughly 80% of a person’s health outcomes.
“Improved community health isn’t achieved in isolation,” said Theresa McLeod, administrator of St. Luke’s Community Health and Engagement Department. “It requires connectedness and systems-thinking, ensuring that everything from health care to social needs are accessible to those who need them most.”
As an example of this systematic approach, McLeod also serves on the Idaho Community Foundation board, lending her perspective as a health leader and long-time community champion.
This year’s Idaho Gives came at a critical time for many organizations facing funding cuts and operational uncertainty. Top fundraisers included the Treasure Valley Family YMCA, The Idaho Foodbank and Friends of the Children – Eastern Idaho, all of which help meet Idahoans’ basic needs. Many of the organizations participating play some role in addressing SDOHs.
In addition to sponsorship, St. Luke’s community investments include its own Community Health Improvement Fund, which awards nearly $1 million annually to nonprofits working within St. Luke’s operating regions. Many CHIF grant recipients also participated in Idaho Gives.
“We firmly believe that Idaho’s health and well-being are strengthened when nonprofits and health systems work together,” said Kevin Bailey, chief executive officer of the Idaho Nonprofit Center. “By collaborating, we can create a more holistic support system where Idahoans have better access to both health services and critical community resources.”
In June, St. Luke’s will host its annual CHIF celebration, hosting grant recipients, St. Luke’s teams and other community partners, including speakers from the Idaho Community Foundation and other CHIF grant recipients at a celebration, networking and enrichment event in downtown Boise.
About The Author
Alexis Bennett is a consultant for St. Luke's Community Health and Engagement.
Better Together
