The Health Foundation of Central Mass

81 "e Health Foundation of Central Massachusetts serves as a vital link between communities and wider healthcare systems and creates a link between health and social equity by reaching beyond formal healthcare settings into communities to deliver a range of care to people who may not have access otherwise." – Paula Aiello, Current Director, Former CEO, YOU Inc. "THFCM's relationship with the town of Ware and the region demonstrates multiple levels of the Foundation's vision. In addition to providing support for important core health services such as rural transportation and recovery, THFCM is a full partner in guiding systems to growth and long-term sustainability. e region is stronger due to our partnership." – Stuart Beckley, Town Manager, Town of Ware "When I reflect on the creation of THFCM, I am proud that I could work with the great Dr. Rudy Utzschneider and the Attorney General to help create a foundation that could fund important health care work in our area. It allowed thoughtful consideration of the grants that funded work in the Worcester area, and it was a testament to continuing the dedicated efforts of the physicians who were part of Central Massachusetts Health Care, Inc." – Francis R. Carroll, Former Director, Executive Chairman, Board of Directors, Carroll Enterprises, Inc. "When I met Dr. Jan Yost, we talked about important things in the community, especially of color and how to assist this population. We formed a bond to go into the community. e Health Foundation looks at community issues and figures out how they can help. ey have given us guidance. It's been meaningful to have the entire city collaborate. e Health Foundation is truly helping the underserved. ey become involved in every aspect of the community and the social determinants of health. ey were the first ones talking about this before it became a "thing." ey are visionaries and consider if we need to change policies and practices to make [a program] sustainable. ere is not another agency like e Health Foundation. We are truly grateful to work with such powerful leaders." – Dr. Matilde Castiel, Former Director, Associate Professor, UMass Chan Medical School and Commissioner of Health and Human Services, City of Worcester "e work of THFCM in its 25-year history has been remarkable at the local, regional and statewide levels. As House chair of the Joint Health Care committee in the late nineties, I had the opportunity to work closely with the young organization on the issue of reinstating budgetary cuts which might have decimated oral health were it not for THFCM's strong support and outstanding advocacy. In response to their assistance, the oral health of the Commonwealth became an accepted part of the budget and responded to the needs and wellbeing of our citizens at all levels." – Harriette L. Chandler, Former President, Massachusetts Senate "Congratulations to my friends and colleagues at e Health Foundation of Central Massachusetts on 25 years of effective philanthropy. Your work has a profound impact on so many communities across the Commonwealth. It has been a real pleasure to have you as a funding partner and "sister" philanthropy in improving health and health care for so many!" – Marty Cohen, Former President & CEO, MetroWest Health Foundation Reflections

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