The MHCH Foundation’s primary area of focus for 2009-2010 is
to leverage healthcare as a driver for rural economic and community development
activities within central South Dakota.
| Health Care as a Driver for Rural Community/Economic Development |
- The foundation has committed $200,000 over a five year
period to South Dakota’s largest health care systems (Sanford and Avera)
to support
the construction of desperately needed long term care facilities and
other infrastructure needs.
- In April of 2009 the foundation hosted roundtable discussions on
the interrelationship between Health Care and Community Development.
Speakers
were Brad Gibbens (Center for Rural Health North Dakota), and Ellen
Durkin (Lower Brule Counseling Services). The session was facilitated
by Marge
Hegge, South Dakota State University.
- The foundation is currently focusing on the creation of nursing
educational programs within the tri-county area (Brule, Buffalo
& Lyman). These programs will create
employment opportunities for students while addressing nursing
shortages within the area.
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