Health & Human Services Continue to Grow in Grand County

“Healthy and productive individuals, families, and communities are the foundation of the nation’s present and future security and prosperity. Through leadership in the medical sciences and public health and human service programs, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services seeks to improve the health and well-being of people in this country and throughout the world.”1

Grand County is no different.  The Grand Foundation continues to provide resources to local organizations such as the American Cancer Society, Grand County Council on Aging, Grand County Rural Health Network, Mountain Family Center and Shining Stars.  Each organization offers unique services to our residents and guests.

The American Cancer Society (ASC) is new to the community but is quickly making its presence known.  The ACS raises money for cancer research and provides education, advocacy and services for patients.  In Grand County, ACS has provided wigs to local salons to distribute freely to chemotherapy patients living in Grand County.

The Grand County Council on Aging has steadily increased its health care shuttle to Denver for our elderly population, offering a direct shuttle to Denver for specialized health care professionals.  Rising gas prices have dramatically increased this organization’s operational expenses.

Based on low income health care needs, the Grand County Rural Health Network has expanded its Advocacy for Children’s Health and Education Services (A.C.H.E.S.) program and created a similar program for adults, Partners for Adults in Need of Services (P.A.I.N.S.). These programs provide medical, dental and mental health care services through vouchers and mobile vans to uninsured children and adults who qualify financially. 

According to Jill Korkowski of Mountain Family Center, the fluctuating economy has almost tripled client participation in their county wide food banks and rent assistance programs.  Mountain Family Center collaboratively works with six local food banks.

Shining Stars offers a five day retreat for children with cancer and life threatening illnesses and their families.  Over 150 people come to Grand County each summer to participate in horseback riding, river rafting, hiking, biking, and other recreational activities.  This gathering fosters a support group setting for these families as they struggle with the everyday challenges of cancer.  The friendships that are made last a lifetime.

The Grand Foundation continues to see a rise in funding requests for health and human services.  Our fundraising and grant programs are instrumental in helping these organizations expand their services. 

To find out more about these local organizations, visit our website at www.grandfoundation.com.

1  Taken from US Dept of Health & Human Services website.