10 Community Coalitions Selected for 3rd Cohort of Methodist Healthcare Ministries’ Prosperemos Juntos Thriving Together Implementation Phase

San Antonio, TX (December 14, 2023) – 10 community coalitions from across South Texas have been selected for the third cohort of Methodist Healthcare Ministries’ (MHM) Prosperemos Juntos | Thriving Together (PJTT) Implementation Phase. MHM has committed $14.7 million in funding over the next three years to enable the coalitions to advance their work. The coalitions recently completed  the six-month PJJT Learning Collaborative that began in March 2023 and helped them explore various frameworks to equip themselves to develop and implement a health equity strategy with their community.

Launched in 2021, PJTT accompanies communities in their journey toward health equity. MHM believes communities hold the solutions to improve their health and well-being. The goal of the annual PJTT Learning Collaborative is to equip coalitions with skills and resources to shift power and address root causes of health equity using the Pathways to Population Health framework as a guide.

The coalitions are  based in three geographic areas: Bexar County, the Mid-Border region (Dimmit, Edwards, Kinney, LaSalle, Maverick, Real, Uvalde, Val Verde and Zavala counties), and the Laredo area (Webb, Zapata and Jim Hogg counties). Coalitions funded in the implementation phase receive continued support through convenings, coaching, peer learning, funding and focused capacity-building. The support provided by MHM is for the purpose of advancing each coalition’s health equity strategy.

“The Prosperemos Juntos | Thriving Together program is one of the ways that we advance our strategic focus of strengthening communities,” said Jaime Wesolowski, President & CEO of Methodist Healthcare Ministries. “Seeing these coalitions advance to the implementation phase is inspiring as we witnessed their deep level of engagement with the learning collaborative and determined for themselves the solutions they want to pursue for the people who live, work, pray, and play in the communities we all serve.”

The coalitions selected for this cohort include:

Bexar County Coalitions

  •  Inspiring Hope
    • Corazon Ministries, Monster Moms, FREED Texas
  • Pathways to Prosperity
    • Culturingua, House of Prayer Lutheran Church, COSA Immigration Liaison, Afghan Village and Restaurant, West Avenue Compassion, Workforce Solutions Alamo, Salvere Public Health Consultants
  • Mission of Motherhood
    • American Indians in Texas at the Spanish Colonial Missions, P.E.A.C.E. Initiative, Opportunity Home, Workforce Solutions
  • Earth Warriors
    • Sustainable G’s, Black Freedom Factory, Rising Stars, SanArte Health & Cultural Clinic, De Corazon Circles (Circles in da Hood)

Mid-Border Region Coalitions

  • Eagle Pass Public Health
    • Maverick County Hospital District, Eagle Pass SAFE, City of Eagle Pass
  • The Support Hub
    • Maverick County Hospital District, City of Eagle Pass – Public Library, Healing Hearts
  • Neurodiversity Coalition
    • Eagle Pass HEROES, Maverick County Hospital District, City of Eagle Pass

Laredo Area Coalitions

  • Zacate Creek Green District
    • Rio Grande International Study Center, Azteca Economic Development and Preservation Corp, Laredo Center for Urban Agriculture and Sustainability (LCUAS), City Makery/Able City, City of Laredo Health Department, Laredo Main Street, Monte Mucho Audubon Society
  • Drug Free Communities (FACE)
    • Holding Institute, PILLAR, Grace Center, WestCare Foundation,                     Communities in Schools of Laredo, Inc.
  • Laredo Health Promotores
    • Ruthe B. Cowl Rehabilitation Center, City of Laredo – Public Health Department, Laredo Stroke Support Group, Mercy Ministries of Laredo

Having completed the Learning Collaborative, coalitions were invited to apply to the Implementation Phase, which lasts three years and includes funding. MHM will continue to support and journey alongside the coalitions as they implement their visions for healthy and thriving communities.

For more information on the Prosperemos Juntos | Thriving Together Learning Collaborative, visit: https://www.mhm.org/thriving-communities/.

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About Methodist Healthcare Ministries of South Texas, Inc.

Methodist Healthcare Ministries broadens the definition of health care by providing low-cost clinical care for the uninsured and by supporting community-led efforts that improve living conditions that cause people to be sick in the first place. We use our earnings as co-owners of Methodist Healthcare to ensure that people who are economically disadvantaged and uninsured can live their healthiest lives. We do this by advocating for, investing in and providing access to quality clinical care and addressing factors that affect health—including economic mobility, supportive relationships, food security, broadband access, and safe neighborhoods. Ultimately, we fulfill our mission of “Serving Humanity to Honor God” by advancing health equity so that more resilient individuals and families living in the 74 counties we serve can thrive.

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10 Coaliciones Comunitarias Seleccionadas para la 3ra Cohorte de la Fase de Implementación de Prosperemos Juntos Thriving Together de Methodist Healthcare Ministries

San Antonio, TX (14 de diciembre de 2023) – 10 coaliciones comunitarias de todo el sur de Texas han sido seleccionadas para la tercera cohorte de la Fase de Implementación de Prosperemos Juntos | Thriving Together (PJTT) de Methodist Healthcare Ministries (MHM). MHM se ha comprometido a aportar $14.7 millones de dólares durante los próximos tres años para que las coaliciones puedan avanzar en su trabajo. Las coaliciones completaron recientemente el Colaborativo de Aprendizaje PJJT de seis meses que comenzó en marzo de 2023 y les ayudó a explorar varios marcos para equiparse para desarrollar e implementar una estrategia de equidad en salud con su comunidad.

Lanzada en 2021, la PJTT acompaña a las comunidades en su camino hacia la equidad en salud. MHM cree que las comunidades tienen las soluciones para mejorar su salud y bienestar. El objetivo de la colaboración anual de aprendizaje de la PJTT es dotar a las coaliciones de habilidades y recursos para cambiar el poder y abordar las causas fundamentales de la equidad sanitaria utilizando como guía el marco de Caminos hacia la Salud de la Población.

Las coaliciones están ubicadas en tres zonas geográficas: El condado de Bexar, la región de la Frontera Media (condados de Dimmit, Edwards, Kinney, LaSalle, Maverick, Real, Uvalde, Val Verde y Zavala) y la zona de Laredo (condados de Webb, Zapata y Jim Hogg). Las coaliciones financiadas en la fase de implementación reciben apoyo continuo a través de convocatorias, asesoramiento, aprendizaje entre iguales, financiación y desarrollo de capacidades específicas. El apoyo proporcionado por MHM tiene como objetivo impulsar la estrategia de equidad en salud de cada coalición.

“El programa Prosperemos Juntos | Thriving Together es una de las formas en que promovemos nuestro enfoque estratégico de fortalecer las comunidades”, dijo Jaime Wesolowski, Presidente y Director Ejecutivo de Methodist Healthcare Ministries. “Ver a estas coaliciones avanzar a la fase de implementación es inspirador, ya que fuimos testigos de su profundo nivel de compromiso con el colaborativo de aprendizaje y determinamos por sí mismos las soluciones que quieren perseguir para las personas que viven, trabajan, oran y juegan en las comunidades que todos servimos.”

Las coaliciones seleccionadas para esta cohorte son:

Coaliciones del Condado de Bexar

  • Inspiring Hope
    • Corazon Ministries, Monster Moms, FREED Texas
  • Pathways to Prosperity
    • Culturingua, House of Prayer Lutheran Church, COSA Immigration Liaison, Afghan Village and Restaurant, West Avenue Compassion, Workforce Solutions Alamo, Salvere Public Health Consultants
  • Mission of Motherhood
    • American Indians in Texas at the Spanish Colonial Missions, P.E.A.C.E. Initiative, Opportunity Home, Workforce Solutions
  • Earth Warriors
    • Sustainable G’s, Black Freedom Factory, Rising Stars, SanArte Health & Cultural Clinic, De Corazon Circles (Circles in da Hood)

Coaliciones de la región de la fronteriza central

  • Eagle Pass Public Health
    • Maverick County Hospital District, Eagle Pass SAFE, City of Eagle Pass
  • The Support Hub
    • Maverick County Hospital District, City of Eagle Pass – Public Library, Healing Hearts
  • Neurodiversity Coalition
    • Eagle Pass HEROES, Maverick County Hospital District, City of Eagle Pass

Coaliciones de la zona de Laredo

  • Zacate Creek Green District
    • Rio Grande International Study Center, Azteca Economic Development and Preservation Corp, Laredo Center for Urban Agriculture and Sustainability (LCUAS), City Makery/Able City, City of Laredo Health Department, Laredo Main Street, Monte Mucho Audubon Society
  • Drug Free Communities (FACE)
    • Holding Institute, PILLAR, Grace Center, WestCare Foundation, Communities in Schools of Laredo, Inc.
  • Laredo Health Promotores
    • Ruthe B. Cowl Rehabilitation Center, City of Laredo – Public Health Department, Laredo Stroke Support Group, Mercy Ministries of Laredo

Una vez completado el Colaborativo de Aprendizaje, se invitó a las coaliciones a presentar su solicitud para la Fase de Implementación, que dura tres años e incluye financiación. MHM continuará apoyando y acompañando a las coaliciones en la implementación de sus visiones de comunidades saludables y prósperas.

Para más información sobre el Colaborativo de Aprendizaje Prosperemos Juntos | Thriving Together, visite:https://www.mhm.org/thriving-communities/.

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Acerca de Methodist Healthcare Ministries of South Texas, Inc.

Methodist Healthcare Ministries amplía la definición de asistencia sanitaria proporcionando atención clínica de bajo costo para las personas sin seguro y apoyando los esfuerzos dirigidos por la comunidad que mejoran las condiciones de vida que causan que las personas enfermen en primer lugar. Utilizamos nuestras ganancias como copropietarios de Methodist Healthcare para garantizar que las personas económicamente desfavorecidas y sin seguro médico puedan llevar una vida más sana. Para ello, defendemos, invertimos y facilitamos el acceso a una atención clínica de calidad y abordamos los factores que afectan a la salud, como la movilidad económica, las relaciones de apoyo, la seguridad alimentaria, el acceso a la banda ancha y las vecindades seguras. En última instancia, cumplimos nuestra misión de “Servir a la humanidad para honrar a Dios” fomentando la equidad en salud para que las personas y familias que viven en los 74 condados en los que prestamos servicio puedan prosperar.

Methodist Healthcare Ministries Awards more than $21 million to advance digital equity across South Texas

San Antonio, TX (December 12, 2023)Methodist Healthcare Ministries of South Texas, Inc. (MHM) is investing more than $21 million over three years to twenty organizations in an effort to advance digital equity and strengthen communities across Texas. The funding will help increase the capacity of community-based organizations and community anchor institutions throughout the region to provide critical digital resources.

While MHM has invested in digital equity before, this investment represents a significant step forward for the organization as it continues a strategic shift towards advancing health equity. MHM is working to ensure all people in its service region have access to reliable, affordable broadband service and the skills and opportunities to use this technology safely and effectively to support their economic, health and social needs.

“At Methodist Healthcare Ministries, we are broadening the definition of health care through invaluable partnerships with vital community-focused agencies across Texas,” said Jaime Wesolowski, President & CEO of Methodist Healthcare Ministries. “We believe that by investing in advancing digital equity, we are not just helping communities to bridge the digital divide, but are also empowering them to access opportunities, connect with vital resources, and take charge of their well-being. Our commitment to funding digital equity, evidenced by this investment across Texas, is a testament to our belief that everyone deserves the tools and skills to thrive in the digital age.”

Organizations receiving funds meet one of three key funding opportunities identified by MHM as being critical to improving digital equity. The three opportunities include: Device Access, Digital Skills, and Public Benefit Adoption. Device Access includes activities as varied as refurbishing devices to developing community spaces that can be used as computer centers/hubs. The Digital Skills funding opportunity looks at hiring and overseeing a Digital Connector Cohort and incorporating them into existing community spaces and programs.  Digital Connectors are community technology ambassadors who apply a lens of health and well-being to bringing needed digital services to communities. Finally, Public Benefit Adoption will promote subsidy outreach from ACP (Affordable Connectivity Program), SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) and Medicaid, just to name a few.

Below is a list of the organizations being funded:
Brownsville Housing Opportunity Corporation

Building Promise USA

City of Mercedes

City of Pharr *

Community Council of South Central Texas *

Community Tech Network

Compudopt

Empower House San Antonio

Family Service*

Family Violence Prevention Services Inc. *

Girls Inc. of San Antonio *

Goodwill Central Texas

Human-I-T

Institute for Local Self-Reliance

MHP Salud *

Mission Road Development Center

People’s  Community Clinic *

Restore Education *

Sunrise Homeless Navigation Center*

South Texas Rural Health Services*

*Indicates current MHM funded partner

The organizations receiving funding are found mostly within four regions being targeted by MHM for this effort, including the Lower Rio Grande Valley, the Mid-Border Region, San Antonio, and Austin. These areas have been identified as having significant digital equity needs and are crucial for MHM’s efforts to bridge the digital divide. In addition to the targeted regions, MHM also prioritized eight covered populations identified by the United States Congress as being the most vulnerable to the digital divide, including: aging individuals (age 60+), incarcerated individuals, veterans, persons with disabilities, rural populations, individuals with a language barrier, low-income households and racial and ethnic minorities. These groups often face significant challenges in accessing digital resources. By focusing on these populations and the targeted regions, MHM aims to ensure that its efforts have the greatest impact in narrowing the digital divide and promoting digital inclusion.

Community Tech Network (CTN), a proven digital equity leader, provides an example of how this investment by MHM will enable its funded partners to improve digital equity for communities across Texas. CTN will provide its digitalLIFT capacity building training toolkit to 30 agencies in Travis, Bexar, Williamson, Hays, Bastrop, and Caldwell counties as well as MHM grantees. It will also deploy five (5) Digital Navigators to these regions to support in these efforts.  Additionally, with MHM’s support, CTN will complete development of a LIFT Wellness module, empowering effective digital stewardship in health-related services.

“This impactful partnership will increase the capacity of community-based organizations (CBOs) and community anchor institutions in Texas to provide critical digital resources, training services, curriculum and support,” said Skye N. Downing, Programs and Partnership Director at Community Tech Network. “Our work together will advance individual and community-wide digital equity in Texas, highlighting the roles that digital equity and access play in health care outcomes, as a super determinant of health.”

Since inception, Methodist Healthcare Ministries has provided more than $1.5 billion in health care services through its clinical programs, and partnerships, and is the largest private funding sources for community health care to low-income families and the uninsured in South Texas.

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About Methodist Healthcare Ministries of South Texas, Inc.

Methodist Healthcare Ministries broadens the definition of healthcare by providing low-cost clinical care for the uninsured and by supporting community-led efforts that improve living conditions that cause people to be sick in the first place. We use our earnings as co-owners of Methodist Healthcare to ensure that people who are economically disadvantaged and uninsured can live their healthiest lives. We do this by advocating for, investing in and providing access to quality clinical care and addressing factors that affect health—including economic mobility, supportive relationships, food security, broadband access, and safe neighborhoods. Ultimately, we fulfill our mission of “Serving Humanity to Honor God” by advancing health equity so that more resilient individuals & families living in the 74 counties we serve can thrive.

More than 160 Local Families Will Receive Decorated Trees at 11th Annual Christmas Tree Giveaway at Wesley Health & Wellness Center

San Antonio (December 5, 2023) – On Wednesday, November 29, Methodist Healthcare Ministries partnered with Methodist Healthcare and the San Antonio Spurs to donate more than 160 decorated Christmas trees to underserved families in San Antonio. As part of their annual holiday celebrations, several departments of Methodist Hospital, Methodist Children’s Hospital, Methodist Hospital | Texsan, Methodist Hospital | Landmark, Methodist Hospital | Metropolitan and Methodist Healthcare System Office participate in a tree decorating contest. Following the competition, the trees, along with 90 wreaths decorated by departments at Methodist Hospital | Specialty & Transplant, Methodist Hospital | Northeast and Methodist Hospital | Stone Oak, are given to families served by Methodist Healthcare Ministries. (View footage from the 2023 event.)

The families who received Christmas trees are selected amongst existing Methodist Healthcare Ministries’ patients and clients who receive care through its Parenting Programs, Recreation & Enrichment services, Behavioral Health, and the Wesley Nurse program. The distribution started at 4 p.m. and lasted through 6 p.m., when the last family loaded up its tree.

“Seeing the smiles on the faces of the families and taking in the joy truly makes this one of our favorite traditions” said Jaime Wesolowski, President & CEO at Methodist Healthcare Ministries. “This annual event between our organization and Methodist Healthcare hospitals supports our shared mission of ‘Serving Humanity to Honor God” and we are incredibly grateful for the opportunity to share the Christmas spirit and holiday cheer with our community.”

This year, a Winter Wonderland was created inside the Wesley Health & Wellness Center for families to enjoy while waiting to pick out their tree, with Spurs players Malaki Branham and Charles Bassey, Coyote and Hype Squad in attendance for the festivities. Methodist Healthcare is the Official Healthcare System of the San Antonio Spurs.

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About Spurs Sports & Entertainment

Spurs Sports & Entertainment (SS&E) is a value-based and community-centric sports and entertainment company that provides premier live and global digital experiences for fans across a portfolio of three teams and two venues – all supported by a passionate staff of more than 1,000 full and part-time employees. SS&E owns and operates the San Antonio Spurs (NBA), Austin Spurs (NBA G League), and San Antonio FC (USL), as well as manages the day-to-day operations of the Frost Bank Center, Toyota Field and STAR Complex. In November 2021, SS&E broke ground on The Rock at La Cantera, a multiphase $500 million legacy project that will extend across 45 acres and feature a human performance research center, 22-acre park, a community outdoor event plaza and space for medical, hospitality and office use. The campus is home to the new Victory Capital Performance Center, a state-of-the-art training facility for the San Antonio Spurs, which opened in October 2023. The SS&E investor group is led by Managing Partner Peter J. Holt.

About Methodist Healthcare Ministries of South Texas, Inc.

Methodist Healthcare Ministries broadens the definition of healthcare by providing low-cost clinical care for the uninsured and by supporting community-led efforts that improve living conditions that cause people to be sick in the first place. We use our earnings as co-owners of Methodist Healthcare to ensure that people who are economically disadvantaged and uninsured can live their healthiest lives. We do this by advocating for, investing in and providing access to quality clinical care and addressing factors that affect health—including economic mobility, supportive relationships, food security, broadband access, and safe neighborhoods. Ultimately, we fulfill our mission of “Serving Humanity to Honor God” by advancing health equity so that more resilient individuals and families living in the 74 counties we serve can thrive. 

About Methodist Healthcare

Methodist Healthcare is a 50-50 co-ownership between Methodist Healthcare Ministries of South Texas, Inc., South Texas’ largest non-public funding source of community health care for uninsured patients; and HCA Healthcare, the nation’s leading provider of healthcare services. This creates a unique partnership that ensures Methodist Healthcare Ministries continues to benefit the community by providing quality care to all and charitable care when needed. Methodist Healthcare invested $818 million in charity and indigent care to the community in 2022 alone. With over 30 facilities, including ten hospitals and nine freestanding emergency departments, over 732,783 ER, inpatients and outpatients are served annually. The Methodist Healthcare team is comprised of 13,500 staff, making the system the second largest private employer in San Antonio. With more than 3,400 credentialed physicians, Methodist Healthcare provides the largest array of medical services in the region, including neurosurgery, cardiovascular services, oncology and women’s services. And, with 25 surgical robots, Methodist Healthcare is a national leader in robotic surgery, as well as home to the nation’s largest Live Donor Kidney Transplant program and several Fortune/Merative Top 100 Hospitals in the nation for its outstanding quality outcomes. Visit SAHealth.com to learn more.

Capacity Building Series: Relationship Building with Funders (Part I)

Why do relationships with funders matter? Consider these facts:

  • Charitable giving reached a record high in 2020 with $471 billion donated to nonprofits. Foundations contributed $88.5 billion (Giving USA).
  • More than 1.6 million nonprofits are registered in U.S. (Urban Institute, National Center for Charitable Statistics 2000).
  • There are an estimated 115,000 foundations in the U.S. (Candid 2018).

So, what can a nonprofit do to stand out while also getting to know funders? In short, having a genuine connection with a funder can break through the competition. The goal is to build authentic relationships. At Methodist Healthcare Ministries, we know through experience that relationships built on false narratives, or projections of how you want others to perceive you instead of who you really are, won’t last. However, making connections by focusing on and prioritizing relationships and trust can help a funder get to know you. Remember, growing relationships is like any other organic process—they need tending on a regular basis.

Creating a Return on Relationship: Importance and Benefits of Relationship Building with Funders

You’re probably familiar with the term “Return on Investment” or ROI. What about ROR (Return on Relationship)? Ted Rubin, a social marketing strategist, trademarked the concept of Return on Relationship. Think about relationship building in terms of a Return on Relationship—there is value accrued due to nurturing a relationship. Relationships inherently are not financial assets; relationships are priceless.

Here are some ideas for increasing your Return on Relationship with funders:

Move beyond only being in a transactional mode with funders. Transactional actions can include questions about grant applications, grant guidelines, grant reports, etc. Instead, think of funders as allies. Funders want their current and prospective partners to succeed. So, find funder allies and then listen carefully to their suggestions regarding your partnership to get the most out of the financial support provided and, perhaps, support beyond the check such as capacity building services. Funders often have expertise, insight, and social capital you can use to be more successful. Many nonprofits and grantees miss out on useful opportunities because they are solely focused on just getting the money versus building a relationship.

Be transformative. Strive to interact in a transformative mode with funders. Being transformative is dynamic. It’s your organization engaging outside of the grant cycle time period. It’s storytelling – your organization’s current events, future plans, and outcomes; sharing ideas or ways to be more strategic. It’s important to set realistic expectations of how much time funders can spend with a partner or prospective partner, so keep balance in mind.

Initiate engagement. Be proactive and seek out funders. This is especially important when it comes to rural grant seeking & philanthropic deserts; funders likely won’t find you. You have to find them!  Some resources to help with rural grantseeking:

Seek peer advice. Don’t forget your peer organizations in your relationship building strategy with funders. Search a foundation’s list of recent grant recipients. If a peer organization has recently received funding, reach out to ask how they established the connection. While grant seeking is competitive, your peer organizations will understand that foundations often have diverse funding interests and will trust you to build a relationship based on your organization’s unique programs and services. Incorporate the tips and feedback you receive from your peers into your cultivation strategy.

Understanding the “Foundation” of Foundations

Understanding Foundations

What is a community foundation?

⇢ What is a private foundation?

What is a corporate foundation?

Source: insidephilanthropy.com

Once you know the different types of foundations–Community,
Private, Operating, and Corporate–you can then research how foundations operate and discover their “why” and/or purpose. Knowing this information can help you vet foundations and grant opportunities more appropriately. In your vetting process, look for alignment with organization type, programs, and services that have been funded. Research the typical grant award; grant periods (one year or multi-year); criteria for funding; funding restrictions; timelines; grant guidelines and application process, etc.

A community foundation is a grantmaker that serves a specific community or region. Distinct from a private foundation, which is usually funded by a single individual, family or corporation, a community foundation is a public charity that is funded by many donors and governed by a board that reflects the community it serves. Examples: San Antonio Area Foundation, Coastal Bend Community Foundation, and Community Foundation of the Texas Hill Country.

A private foundation is a non-governmental agency who might be an individual or family that establishes a private foundation to give money (and sometimes other resources) to nonprofits engaged in charitable activities. Examples: Meadows Foundation, Nancy Smith Hurd Foundation, and Anderson Charitable Foundation.

A corporate foundation is a private foundation whose money is contributed by a for-profit business. Think Home Depot or State Farm.

An operating foundation is a private foundation that provides public programming and services and charitable funding. Examples: St. David’s Foundation and Episcopal Health Foundation.

Be curiousFunders who don’t accept unsolicited proposals? Consider and approach funders who don’t accept unsolicited applications if they are a good funding fit for your organization’s work and mission. Many of these foundations are willing to consider new applicants but are using other methods to learn about potential partners to limit the number of proposals they have to review. Your organization deserves to be considered. Don’t dismiss a prospect just because you have read that they do not accept unsolicited proposals, especially if it fits your organization’s work and mission. It doesn’t hurt to ask. Don’t tell yourself no by assuming they’ll tell you no. If it’s a no, then let them tell you no. 

Source: https://help.candid.org/s/article/applications-not-accepted

Look at the funder’s grant awards from the last several years to see its giving trends. The funder could be a good prospect if the funder awards grants to different organizations from year to year, has a similar funding priority to your organization’s mission, and makes grants in your geographic region. However, if a funder makes grants to the same organizations year after year, you might consider looking at other funders instead.

Source: https://help.candid.org/s/article/applications-not-accepted

*In Part 2 of this blog, we will focus on a multitude of ways your organization can approach funders, initiate engagement, and maintain relationships with funders.

MHM.org author pics

About the author: Chloé Laurence (she/her)

claurence@mhm.org

With a professional background working in education, mental health counseling spaces, and the nonprofit sector, Chloé serves her community through education, advocacy, and capacity building. She utilizes her love of learning and connecting with people in her work as a Capacity Building Specialist at Methodist Healthcare Ministries to support and empower our funded partners. Her mission is to strengthen our partners’ organizations so they can continue their incredible work building health equity and serving underserved individuals.

November 2023 Calendar of Events – WHWC

Methodist Healthcare Ministries’ Wesley Health & Wellness team offers a wide variety of programs and classes designed for every skill level! All classes are free and open to the public. Registration is required, call (210) 922-6922 to register.

Click here to download a copy of our Wesley Health & Wellness Center – Calendar of Events for November 2023.

English

2023 November Calendar_Page_1

Español

2023 November Calendar_Page_2

San Antonio Express-News Names Methodist Healthcare Ministries a Winner of the San Antonio Metro Area Top Workplaces 2023 Award

(San Antonio, TX October 23, 2023) – For the third consecutive year, Methodist Healthcare Ministries of South Texas, Inc. (MHM) has been awarded a Top Workplaces 2023 honor by San Antonio Express-News Top Workplaces. This is the third consecutive year MHM has received this recognition and the fourth time in the past decade.

The selection is based solely on employee feedback gathered through a third-party survey administered by employee engagement technology partner Energage LLC. The confidential survey uniquely measures 15 culture drivers that are critical to the success of any organization: including alignment, execution and connection, just to name a few.

“To receive this special recognition for a third consecutive year is truly a testament to the remarkable team we have at Methodist Healthcare Ministries, who embody our mission of ‘Serving Humanity to Honor God’ in everything they do” said Jaime Wesolowski, President & CEO, Methodist Healthcare Ministries. “We are thankful to our mission-driven board of directors for ensuring our team has the resources and tools they require to work with exceptional skill, humility and passion to pursue health equity across South Texas; making every day at Methodist Healthcare Ministries rewarding—and truly an extraordinary place to work.”

MHM employs 500 employees across San Antonio and throughout Texas, including at its corporate headquarters located in the San Antonio Medical Center, two community clinics (the Wesley Health & Wellness Center and the Dixon Health & Wellness Center), two George Ricks School-Based Health Centers at Krueger Elementary and Schertz Elementary, and over 100 additional staff positions located within local churches and community centers in 74 counties across South Texas. MHM offers employees a robust benefits package including medical, dental, and vision coverage, the opportunity to invest in a matching 401(k) savings plan, a vibrant health & wellness incentive program, education reimbursement opportunities and more.

“Earning a Top Workplaces award is a badge of honor for companies, especially because it comes authentically from their employees,” said Eric Rubino, Energage CEO. “That’s something to be proud of. In today’s market, leaders must ensure they’re allowing employees to have a voice and be heard. That’s paramount. Top Workplaces do this, and it pays dividends.”

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About Methodist Healthcare Ministries of South Texas, Inc.

Methodist Healthcare Ministries broadens the definition of healthcare by providing low-cost clinical care for the uninsured and by supporting community-led efforts that improve living conditions that cause people to be sick in the first place. We use our earnings as co-owners of Methodist Healthcare to ensure that people who are economically disadvantaged and uninsured can live their healthiest lives. We do this by advocating for, investing in and providing access to quality clinical care and addressing factors that affect health—including economic mobility, supportive relationships, food security, broadband access, and safe neighborhoods. Ultimately, we fulfill our mission of “Serving Humanity to Honor God” by advancing health equity so that more resilient individuals and families living in the 74 counties we serve can thrive.

About Energage Making the world a better place to work together.TM

Energage is a purpose-driven company that helps organizations turn employee feedback into useful business intelligence and credible employer recognition through Top Workplaces. Built on 17 years of culture research and the results from 27 million employees surveyed across more than 70,000 organizations, Energage delivers the most accurate competitive benchmark available. With access to a unique combination of patented analytic tools and expert guidance, Energage customers lead the competition with an engaged workforce and an opportunity to gain recognition for their people-first approach to culture. For more information or to nominate your organization, visit energage.com or topworkplaces.com.

Early Voting Begins in Texas

Early voting in Texas begins today, October 23, for fourteen amendments to the Texas constitution. Each one is the result of legislation passed during the 88th Texas Legislature earlier this year.

Methodist Healthcare Ministries advocated for several of the propositions on the ballot. They positively impact nonmedical drivers of health, improving the health of Texans and the patients we serve.

Proposition 2  Childcare facilities

This amendment allows cities and counties to provide a property tax exemption for childcare providers if a minimum of 20% of their students receive subsidized childcare services. The exemption must be at least 50% of the property’s appraised value and does not apply to school district taxes or home-based childcare providers who have already received a homestead exemption.

Proposition 4 – Property taxes / school funding

This amendment lowers school district property taxes. Specifically, the amendment:

  • Increases the amount of homestead exemptions from $40,000 to $100,000.
  • Releases an additional $7.1 billion appropriated to school districts during the 88thTexas Legislature to lower property tax rates.
  • Imposes a temporary 20% cap on increases in the taxable value of appraisals for commercial, mineral and residential properties that do not receive a homestead exemption and are worth less than $5 million. The cap expires in 2026.
  • Expands the pool of business that do not pay the state franchise tax.
  • Allows voters to elect three members to the local appraisal district board of directors. (The members are currently appointed).

Proposition 6 – Texas Water Fund

The 88th Texas Legislature created the Texas Water Development Board to oversee projects throughout the state recognizing clean water is essential for healthy communities. This amendment creates a fund within the state treasury, endowed with $1 billion to begin to address the state’s significant water issues.

  • A minimum of 25% of the fund is dedicated to the New Water Supply Fund for Texas, supporting projects to increase the state’s water supply from nontraditional sources such as saltwater desalination.
  • The remaining 75% is for the Texas Water Fund which aids in infrastructure repairs, obtaining new water sources, mitigating water loss at existing facilities and ensuring future water availability.

Proposition 8 – Broadband infrastructure fund

The Texas Broadband Development Office estimates 3 million Texas households do not have broadband internet connections and an additional 5 million households have unreliable connections. Most live in rural areas. The amendment provides $1.5 billion to develop and finance broadband, telecommunication and 911 services as well as provide matching funds for federal grants from the Broadband Equity, Access and Deployment Program.

Proposition 10 – Medical and biomedical products 

This amendment exempts biomedical equipment and inventory when calculating a facility’s appraised value for property tax purposes. All taxing entities are included (city, county, school districts and special taxing districts) in the exemption. The rationale for giving the exemption is more manufacturers will choose to locate their business in Texas with a more favorable tax situation.

For more information about any amendments on the ballot, including arguments for and against each amendment, visit the nonpartisan voter guides published by The Texas Tribune or the League of Women Voters.

Everyone is encouraged to exercise their right to vote. Early voting runs through Friday, November 3. Election Day is Tuesday, November 7. To find your polling location and hours, visit the Texas Secretary of State’s website.

Funded Partner Spotlight: Community Council of South-Central Texas, Inc.

Since 1995, Methodist Healthcare Ministries of South Texas, Inc. has provided over $1 billion to improve the well-being of the least served through its clinics, programs, and strategic partnerships. Methodist Healthcare Ministries is proud to partner with organizations that share similar missions and organizational objectives of increasing access to care for uninsured and economically disadvantaged individuals and families across South Texas.  

In the months following November 1963, just after President John F. Kennedy’s assassination, President Lyndon B. Johnson carried on Kennedy’s plans to alleviate the burdens of Americans living in poverty. Later the next year, Congress passed the Economic Opportunity Act, which established and funded Community Action Agencies and Programs. By 1968, there were over 1,600 agencies across America serving the country at a local level. 

One of these Community Action Agencies, the Community Council of Comal County was established in 1965. In 1981, the change in funding from the federal government to state Block Grant funding led the organization to be renamed the Community Council of South-Central Texas (CCSCT).  

Almost 60 years later, CCSCT has expanded to serve 31 counties across South, Central and West Texas with the objective of promoting and delivering much needed services to low-income families in their service area. Case by case, CCSCT uses their network of over 1,000 partner nonprofits and programming to help families on their journey to becoming fully self-sufficient.  

In 2023, Methodist Healthcare Ministries (MHM) provided $100,000 in grant funding to CCSCT to fund their housing support programs across their service area. The grant also supported the renovation of a new public outreach facility in Karnes County, where unhoused individuals can come for connections to resources, as well as use printing and computer services.  

“It (the grant funding) has been instrumental in providing assistance to low-income families when funding is low or when we are unable to serve that population,” Carol Delgado, program officer at CCSCT, commented. “MHM funding has allowed us to provide assistance that we normally wouldn’t be able to provide.”  

The grant provided by MHM will also, in part, go towards the building of a new outreach facility in Karnes County with the hopes of providing basic resources such as a computer lab, breaking down transportation barriers, as well as directing clients to much-needed programs offered by CCSCT.  

 “A homeless person or unhoused person is not going to be able to travel to our Seguin office or our Jourdanton office so they can go through the front door [at our Karnes office],” Kenneth Loy, Program Manager and Veteran’s Resource Coordinator, commented. “It allows people down there to have a local place to help address an unhoused issue.”  

One of the programs CCSCT provides is home and rental assistance in the form of the Tenant-Based Rental Assistance program (TBRA) which offers security and utility deposits as well as rental subsidies for up to 24 months while the household engages in a self-sufficiency program. Securing safe and secure shelter as well as food and water is key to facilitating access to healthcare and other needs for unhoused populations.  

 CCSCT also provides support for eligible former members of the military through their Veteran’s Financial Assistance program. The program is supported by a grant from the Texas Veteran’s Commission Fund for Veteran’s Assistance and provides short-term services such as one-time utility payments and one-time rent or mortgage payments.  

The ERA2 program is an initiative set forth by the U.S. Department of the Treasury to assist eligible families with financial assistance and housing stability. It’s through this program that CCSCT has been able to receive funding to help transition families and individuals out of homelessness and into permanent living spaces. CCSCT has seen a 40% success rate with transitioning eligible households from temporary and semi-permanent living areas and into permanent housing.  

“The two basic needs that people look for are food and shelter,” Loy said. “And so, when you address food and shelter, you allow a person the freedom to do other things like pursue healthcare.”   

If you or a loved one would like to contact the Community Council of South-Central Texas, visit their website and find a location near you to get in contact with a representative today.  

CCSCT Website: https://www.ccsct.org/  

CCSCT Logo

Methodist Healthcare Ministries receives prestigious NCQA Certification as Patient Centered Medical Home

San Antonio, TX (October 1, 2023)Methodist Healthcare Ministries of South Texas, Inc. (MHM) announces that it has received the Patient Centered Medical Home certification from the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA). NCQA accredits and certifies health care organizations that have made a commitment to a patient-centered approach to care and continuous quality improvement.

“Methodist Healthcare Ministries is committed to delivering high quality, affordable care that is centered around each patient, providing support to make the best choices for their own health and well-being,” said Jaime Wesolwoski, President & CEO of Methodist Healthcare Ministries. “We recognize that patients come to us seeking relief not only from physical conditions, but also healing from emotional and spiritual trauma. Using evidence-based practices, we listen carefully to each patient and offer integrated medical, behavioral and oral health care that is coordinated alongside parenting and wellness classes so that each patient has the opportunity to thrive.”

The NCQA Patient-Centered Medical Home program reflects the input of the American College of Physicians (ACP), American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP), American Osteopathic Association (AOA) and others. It was developed to assess whether clinician practices are functioning as medical homes and then recognize them for these efforts. The NCQA Patient Centered Medical Home standards emphasize the use of systematic, patient-centered, coordinated care that supports access, communication and patient involvement.

“The NCQA Patient-Centered Medical Home Recognition raises the bar in defining high-quality care by emphasizing access, health information and coordinated care focused on patients,” said NCQA President Margaret E. O’Kane. “Recognition shows that Methodist Healthcare Ministries has the tools, systems and resources to provide its patients with the right care, at the right time.”

Wesolowski added, “We’re honored to receive this certification from the NCQA that recognizes our work putting our patients and clients at the center of our efforts while continuously building better relationships with our community.”

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About Methodist Healthcare Ministries of South Texas, Inc.

Methodist Healthcare Ministries broadens the definition of healthcare by providing low-cost clinical care for the uninsured and by supporting community-led efforts that improve living conditions that cause people to be sick in the first place. We use our earnings as co-owners of Methodist Healthcare to ensure that people who are economically disadvantaged and uninsured can live their healthiest lives. We do this by advocating for, investing in and providing access to quality clinical care and addressing factors that affect health—including economic mobility, supportive relationships, food security, broadband access, and safe neighborhoods. Ultimately, we fulfill our mission of “Serving Humanity to Honor God” by advancing health equity so that more resilient individuals and  families living in the 74 counties we serve can thrive.

About National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA)

NCQA is a private, nonprofit organization dedicated to improving health care quality. NCQA accredits and certifies a wide range of health care organizations. It also recognizes clinicians and practices in key areas of performance. NCQA’s Healthcare Effectiveness Data and Information Set (HEDIS) is the most widely used performance measurement tool in health care. In recognition for its leadership in diversity, equity and inclusion, NCQA has won the Excellence in Diversity Award from the Chesapeake Human Resources Association. NCQA’s website (ncqa.org) contains information to help consumers, employers and others make more-informed health care choices. NCQA can be found online at ncqa.org or Twitter @ncqa and on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/company/ncqa.

Clarity Child Guidance Center Breaks Ground on Vital Renovations to Increase Capacity and Improve Care

San Antonio, Texas (September 26, 2023) –  Clarity Child Guidance Center broke ground during a special ceremony on Wednesday, September 20  on renovations being made possible through its “HEROES: The Campaign for Clarity.” Through the campaign, Clarity is ensuring that every child and family who needs behavioral health services can receive them.

At the ceremony on Clarity’s 8-acre campus in San Antonio, which was attended by nearly 100 guests, Methodist Healthcare Ministries’ board chair Lavonne Garrison announced that MHM is contributing to Clarity’s capital campaign with a gift of $1 million, furthering their mission of healing young minds and hearts. “Supporting adult and youth mental health has been a long-time priority for MHM and we have been proud to provide community grants to partners across South Texas, like Clarity, who are providing services to the families in their communities, as well as providing services to the patients we serve across our service area,” said Garrison.

Through the Heroes campaign, Clarity will:

  • Renovate Building 5 into an 8-bed Pediatric Psychiatric Intensive Care Unit (PPICU) that will provide trauma-informed mental health services to an additional 700 children each year.
  • Establish a flexible living unit in Building 3 for any age or gender.
  • Update the kitchen to create an environmentally friendly space to accommodate 125 kids and staff.
  • Finish out third floor of Outpatient Building to allow for 4,500 more outpatient appointments annually.
  • Expand the Crisis Services Department to assess an additional 60 kids in crisis per month.
  • Expand the Next Step Center to increase space and accessibility for families and children who need extended services.

Clarity is the only nonprofit in South Texas providing a continuum of mental health services to children ages 3-17 and their families to manage mental health conditions. With the region’s largest concentration of child and adolescent psychiatrists, it provides inpatient, outpatient, partial hospitalization, emergency room crisis services, care coordination, education and more annually to over 8,000 children in need of care, regardless of their family’s ability to pay.

“Clarity Child Guidance Center has seen a dramatic increase in the need for children’s mental health services post pandemic,” said Jessica Knudson, , LCSW, FACHE, CEO and President of Clarity Child Guidance Center.  “We are so appreciative to all of our supporters that have helped us kick off our campaign.  The $1 million gift from Methodist Healthcare Ministries was pivotal in moving forward with this much needed expansion.“

The U.S. Surgeon General’s recent advisory warned that mental health challenges are the leading cause of disability and poor life outcomes in young people, with up to 1 in 5 children ages 3 to 17 in the U.S. having a mental, emotional, developmental or behavioral disorder. In Texas, more than 67% of children who need treatment never receive it—even though 25% have onset by age 7—due to three barriers: a lack of service providers where they live; stigma around mental health; and the ability to pay for services.

60 percent of the children served by Clarity are uninsured, underinsured, or low-income, making the organization even more a valuable resource for the community given the barriers that exist in accessing care.  The barriers to care compound a troubling trend among area youth. The San Antonio Teen Mental Health Survey conducted in the spring 2022, found that 37% of youth expressed an inability to perform day to day tasks and 49% stated feeling helpless, hopeless, numb, or like nothing matters.

Bexar County Judge Peter Sakai and San Antonio City Councilman Manny Pelaez (D8) were on hand to speak to the importance of addressing children’s mental health for the betterment of our community.  Judge Sakai stated “I’m well aware of the escalating needs in the community and I think the community recognizes that COVID was a once-in-a-lifetime crisis, and it continues. It (the impact of COVID) has been devastating, which means we have to double down and add more resources for mental health to care for those especially those in need.”

Councilman Pelaez added, “I thank God every single day that there are people like the folks who work at Clarity who come to work to make the difference for these kids. I can tell you that there is no doubt in my mind that for the first time ever, you have a city council who, in unison, now speak the language of mental health, trauma-informed care, and making sure that we don’t just deliver streets & sidewalks & parks & drainage facilities and an airport, but also that we’re delivering an ecosystem where everybody has that right to live work and play. And that those who are most brittle and vulnerable can also reclaim that right to live work and play.”

Clarity supports all Bexar County children between the ages of 3 and 17 who are experiencing mental and behavioral disturbances, their families, and their communities. Last year, Clarity experienced a dramatic demand for services, including a 65% increase in inpatient admissions with no previous treatment history, a 27% increase in inpatient hospitalizations and a 159% increase in the use of  the Crisis Services Department.

Tony LoBasso, Chief Operating Officer of Methodist Healthcare Ministries and Board Chair for Clarity Child Guidance Center added, “Our kids are our future, and we have to make sure that they have access to care to put the stigma of behavioral health behind and make sure there is a caring environment that they feel they and their family can come to and be served.”

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About Methodist Healthcare Ministries of South Texas, Inc.

Methodist Healthcare Ministries broadens the definition of healthcare by providing low-cost clinical care for the uninsured and by supporting community-led efforts that improve living conditions that cause people to be sick in the first place. We use our earnings as co-owners of Methodist Healthcare to ensure that people who are economically disadvantaged and uninsured can live their healthiest lives. We do this by advocating for, investing in and providing access to quality clinical care and addressing factors that affect health—including economic mobility, supportive relationships, food security, broadband access, and safe neighborhoods. Ultimately, we fulfill our mission of “Serving Humanity to Honor God” by advancing health equity so that more resilient individuals & families living in the 74 counties we serve can thrive.

About Clarity Child Guidance Center:

Founded in 1886, Clarity Child Guidance Center is the only nonprofit in South Texas providing a continuum of mental health services for children ages 3-17 and their families to manage mental health conditions ranging from depression and anxiety to suicidal ideation, bipolar disorder and/or schizophrenia. In keeping with its vision to ensure that every child and family that needs its services receives its services, Clarity maintains a stand-alone mental health hospital on an eight-acre kid-friendly, open campus, with 66-bed, four-unit inpatient hospital with a six-bed Crisis Services unit offering specialized treatment for children.  It serves more than 8,000 children annually in need of care, regardless of their family’s ability to pay; the majority of patients are disproportionately low-income.   It offers the region’s largest concentration of child and adolescent psychiatrists through onsite affiliations with Southwest Psychiatric Physicians and UT Health San Antonio; it is also a teaching hospital for the esteemed nursing schools of UT Health San Antonio and University of Incarnate Word.

Methodist Healthcare Ministries Announces $500,000 Gift to Harlandale Independent School District for After School Programming

San Antonio, TX  (September 18, 2023)Methodist Healthcare Ministries of South Texas, Inc. (MHM) announced that it is making a $500,000 gift to the Harlandale Independent School District (HISD) during the Special Recognitions Program prior to the HISD School Board meeting on Monday, September 18, 2023. The announcement addresses the school district’s request for support to continue after school care programs for five schools in the district: Schulze Elementary School, Harlandale Middle School, Kingsborough Middle School, S.T.E.M. Early College High School, and Frank Tejeda Academy.

“Partnerships like this are important because we know that health is more than just what happens at a doctor’s visit at one of our clinics. It’s a lifelong journey fueled by supportive relationships, caring communities, and more fair and just opportunities for every person to be the healthiest version of themselves,” said Xochy Hurtado, Chief Operating Officer for Methodist Healthcare Ministries. “Through this gift, Methodist Healthcare Ministries and Harlandale will build a healthier, thriving community by strengthening families, improving health and safety for students and giving parents the peace of mind they need to work and lead happy, healthy families.“

The HISD, like many other school districts across Texas, previously received funding from the federal government’s American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA). With that funding source depleted, HISD was facing a funding shortage that would lead to 50 percent of its after school programs being cut for the current 2023-2024 school year. These five schools and hundreds of kids would find themselves without access to critical after school care programs and activities that are critical to helping them reach their fullest potential for life.

“This funding is a beacon of hope for our after-school programs, allowing us to provide invaluable support and opportunities to our students,” said Gerardo Soto, Superintendent of Schools at Harlandale Independent School District. “We are deeply appreciative of Methodist Healthcare Ministries’ commitment to our community’s education and well-being.”

MHM’s Wesley Health & Wellness Center (WHWC) is located near the HISD and students from the five impacted schools often participate in programming offered at the WHWC. Through this effort, MHM will continue to broaden the definition of healthcare by partnering with HISD, strengthening families, improving the health and safety for the children and giving parents the peace of mind.

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About Methodist Healthcare Ministries of South Texas, Inc.Methodist Healthcare Ministries broadens the definition of healthcare by providing low-cost clinical care for the uninsured and by supporting community-led efforts that improve living conditions that cause people to be sick in the first place. We use our earnings as co-owners of Methodist Healthcare to ensure that people who are economically disadvantaged and uninsured can live their healthiest lives. We do this by advocating for, investing in and providing access to quality clinical care and addressing factors that affect health—including economic mobility, supportive relationships, food security, broadband access, and safe neighborhoods. Ultimately, we fulfill our mission of “Serving Humanity to Honor God” by advancing health equity so that more resilient individuals & families living in the 74 counties we serve can thrive.

About Harlandale Independent School District:The Harlandale Independent School District serves about 12,000 students with two traditional high schools, the STEM Early College High School, Frank Tejeda Academy, four middle schools, nine elementary schools,  and one alternate campus.

Methodist Healthcare Ministries Announces Three-Year Partnership with VelocityTX

SAN ANTONIO (August 9) – Methodist Healthcare Ministries of South Texas, Inc. (MHM) announced today a three-year partnership with San Antonio-based bioscience innovation center VelocityTX to advance awareness, research, and innovation related to the social determinants of health (SDH).

Speaking at an event organized by Healthcare Think Tank, MHM President & CEO Jaime Wesolowski made the announcement following a keynote address that emphasized the need for greater focus on the role societal factors play in shaping health outcomes. Among the areas discussed were education, socioeconomic status, living conditions, access to care, and environmental factors.

In his address, Wesolowski called for a collaborative effort between healthcare institutions, research organizations, and private industry to tackle the root causes of health disparities, noting the potential of innovative technologies in addressing these critical—but often overlooked—factors that contribute to health and well-being.

Following the presentation, Wesolowski announced the partnership with VelocityTX, a subsidiary of the Texas Research and Technology Foundation. “We are excited for this partnership, which will propel innovation and sustainable solutions at the intersection of business and community impact. MHM and VelocityTX intend to create a hub of innovation that launches improvement in the social determinants of health across communities for years to come.”

A key component of the partnership will be the development of a specialized accelerator tailored to startups that are working to address social determinants of health. Launching in 2024, the program will leverage VelocityTX’s bioscience expertise to source leading innovators from across the country, offering cohort participants access to entrepreneurs-in-residence, personalized pitch coaching, and comprehensive business training.

“Societal factors have a major impact on personal wellbeing, particularly in under-resourced communities,” followed TRTF President and COO Rene Dominguez. “MHM’s vision to improve wellness of the least served makes this partnership particularly mission aligned, and we are excited to see what happens when we focus the lens of innovation toward this critical area of study.”

Operating out of a state-of-the-art Innovation Center located within one of San Antonio’s historically underserved communities, VelocityTX will also oversee ten education sessions designed to highlight the role social determinants of health play in shaping community health. Hosted at the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, these sessions aim to raise awareness of SDH among students, healthcare professionals, and the general population. The first session will be held on Tuesday, September 26.

“With a dual focus on education and innovation, this partnership will help translate leading-edge science into positive health outcomes in communities all across South Texas,” Wesolowski stated.

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About Methodist Healthcare Ministries of South Texas, Inc.
Methodist Healthcare Ministries broadens the definition of healthcare by providing low-cost clinical care for the uninsured and by supporting community-led efforts that improve living conditions that cause people to be sick in the first place. We use our earnings as co-owners of Methodist Healthcare to ensure that people who are economically disadvantaged and uninsured can live their healthiest lives. We do this by advocating for, investing in and providing access to quality clinical care and addressing factors that affect health—including economic mobility, supportive relationships, food security, broadband access, and safe neighborhoods. Ultimately, we fulfill our mission of “Serving Humanity to Honor God” by advancing health equity so that more resilient individuals & families living in the 74 counties we serve can thrive.

About VelocityTX
VelocityTX is a nonprofit organization established in 2017 as a subsidiary of the Texas Research & Technology Foundation to help early-stage bioscience companies launch innovative breakthroughs that can significantly change and save lives at a global level. The VelocityTX innovation model – connect, support, fund – is designed to accelerate the path to commercialization for companies focused on medical devices, biotech, and healthcare IT. Learn more at VelocityTX.org.

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Jaime Wesoloski

President & Chief Executive Officer

Jaime Wesolowski is the President and Chief Executive Officer at Methodist Healthcare Ministries. A healthcare executive with three decades of leadership experience, Jaime is responsible for the overall governance and direction of Methodist Healthcare Ministries. Jaime earned his Master’s Degree in Healthcare Administration from Xavier University, and his Bachelor’s of Science from Indiana University in Healthcare Administration. As a cancer survivor, Jaime is a staunch supporter of the American Cancer Society. He serves as Chair of the American Cancer Society’s South Texas Area board of directors and he was appointed as Chair to the recently created South Region Advisory Cabinet, covering eight states from Arizona through Alabama. Jaime believes his personal experience as a cancer survivor has given him more defined insight and compassion to the physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of patients and their families.