Author: Steven Cavazos

For more than 30 years, Methodist Healthcare Ministries of South Texas, Inc. (MHM) has worked to create and sustain healthy communities across its 74-county service area. In 2026, MHM allocated $64.5 million to over 195 nonprofit organizations and municipalities, including $32.6 million in new grants through an open cycle launched in 2024. This investment reflects MHM’s commitment to supporting thriving people and places by addressing vital conditions—the essential properties and environments everyone needs to reach their full potential for health and life.

One of those partners is Galilee Community Development Corporation (Galilee CDC), based in San Angelo, Texas, and serving families across the Concho Valley. A trusted partner since 2021, Galilee CDC has received more than $255,000 from MHM to advance its mission of providing  affordable housing for low- and moderate-income families  throughout the region.

Galilee CDC: Creating Pathways to Housing Stability

Galilee CDC was established with a simple but powerful mission: ensure that people have access to affordable housing and the opportunities that stable housing creates. Over the past two decades, the organization has built more than 100 homes and now completes approximately 70 to 80 home rehabilitation projects each year. These projects range from minor repairs that improve safety to major renovations that make homes accessible for older adults and individuals with disabilities. 

In 2013, Galilee CDC expanded its impact by becoming the general partner of a 36-unit single-family tax credit housing development, a unique model in Texas where tax credit projects are traditionally apartment-based. Today, the organization operates across multiple housing programs and serves communities throughout the Concho Valley. 

Most recently, Galilee CDC completed an eight-unit apartment community designed specifically for young adults ages 18 to 30 who meet income qualifications under the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s (HUD) 60% Area Median Income (AMI) guidelines. The project was developed to address a critical gap in affordable housing and support young people who may be transitioning out of foster care, experiencing housing insecurity, or struggling to afford rising rental costs. 

Advancing Health Equity Through Housing

Galilee CDC views housing as a foundation for health and well-being.”When we are able to provide stable housing for families or individuals, it allows them to improve other areas of their lives because they’re not constantly worried about whether they can pay rent, keep up with a mortgage, or find a new place to live,” saidStephanie Hamby, Executive Director of Galilee CDC. 

The organization believes that health equity begins with safe, secure, and sanitary living environments. Whether repairing a leaking roof, replacing failing plumbing, installing accessibility features, or helping a young adult secure stable housing, Galilee CDC addresses conditions that directly affect physical and mental health. 

The new apartment community exemplifies this approach. Residents pay affordable rents ranging from $450 to $475 per month while receiving support that helps them build long-term stability. Through initiatives such as Project ID, Galilee CDC helps residents obtain identification documents and birth certificates needed to access services, employment opportunities, and benefits. The organization also offers financial education resources to help residents build a stronger future. 

Rather than simply preventing homelessness, Galilee CDC focuses on helping young adults establish a path toward independence and self-sufficiency. 

How MHM’s Grant Is Making a Difference

MHM’s support has helped Galilee CDC advance several critical housing initiatives, including improvements to the newly completed apartment development and the organization’s extensive home rehabilitation program. 

Home rehabilitation work often reveals hidden issues that cannot be identified during initial project planning. What begins as an accessibility renovation may uncover damaged plumbing, deteriorated subfloors, foundation problems, or other significant structural concerns. These unexpected repairs can dramatically increase project costs and threaten the organization’s ability to complete other planned improvements. 

MHM funding has provided Galilee CDC with the flexibility to address these unforeseen challenges without sacrificing other needed repairs.

“This funding allows us to fix the unseen issues and still complete the original scope of work,” Hammack said. “It helps us fix the major problems instead of just patching them.” 

By addressing root causes rather than temporary fixes, Galilee CDC can preserve housing, improve safety, and create healthier living conditions for residents throughout the communities it serves. 

Responding When Communities Need Help Most

In addition to its housing programs, Galilee CDC has played a leading role in disaster recovery efforts following the devastating floods that affected the Concho Valley region in July 2025.

The organization has already completed repairs on more than 150 flood-damaged homes and continues coordinating recovery efforts for additional households. Through partnerships with organizations like MHM and other community supporters, Galilee CDC has helped families restore their homes and regain stability after experiencing significant losses. 

The recovery work has also introduced the organization to families who had never previously needed housing assistance.

“Being able to restore homes and help people recover has been great for the community,” Hammack said. “Many of these homes are now in better condition than they were before the flood.” 

What People Should Know About Galilee CDC

One of the biggest misconceptions Galilee CDC encounters is that its home rehabilitation services sound too good to be true.

Many eligible homeowners are surprised to learn that qualifying repairs are provided at no cost and without placing liens on their homes. The organization’s goal is simple: help residents remain in homes that are safe, accessible, and healthy. 

Through partnerships with foundations, state programs, local governments, and community supporters, Galilee CDC continues to make affordable housing solutions accessible to people who need them most. 

How You Can Help

Galilee CDC encourages community members, funders, and partners to help expand access to safe and affordable housing across rural Texas.

Referrals are one of the most valuable ways to support the organization. Sharing information about available services can help connect families and individuals with resources they may not know exist. Galilee CDC also welcomes partnerships with foundations, organizations, and community leaders who can help identify funding opportunities and expand programs throughout underserved communities. 

Together, We Build Stronger Communities

Across the Concho Valley and surrounding rural communities, Galilee CDC is proving that stable housing can transform lives. From building affordable homes and rehabilitating aging structures to supporting young adults and leading disaster recovery efforts, the organization is creating healthier communities one home at a time. 

To learn more about Galilee CDC and how you can get involved, visit www.galileecdc.org.

The most innovative ideas emerge through transformative partnerships, where listening, learning, and collaboration create meaningful impact that can be felt across generations ––this philosophy serves as a fundamental pillar for Methodist Healthcare Ministries of South Texas, Inc. (MHM). Each summer, MHM joins visionary thinkers and leaders from across the fields of health care, research, advocacy, and policy for the Aspen Ideas: Health (AIH) conference. 

The annual convening takes place each summer at the Aspen Institute in Colorado and draws over a thousand attendees from around the world each year. MHM is part of this global community and has been leading panel and roundtable discussions since 2024. 

In July a delegation made up of organizational leaders, partners, and team members attended the 2026 AIH conference. 

During their time at AIH, delegation members attended various sessions and heard from other thought leaders who are exploring bold approaches to address some of the most pressing health issues communities are facing each day.  

Jaime Wesolowski, president and CEO of MHM, was among the speakers at AIH. Joining him was Dan Buettner, National Geographic Fellow, and founder of Blue Zones. On stage, they discussed their transformative partnership along the Texas-Mexico border in the Rio Grande Valley (RGV). The initiative was born from a conversation that began at AIH in 2024, serving as a testament to how the exchange of ideas can spark meaningful collaboration and lasting change. 

How Transformative Partnerships Take Root: 

The three-day event kicked off with the AIH opening session. Attendees gathered to hear welcome remarks from Aspen Institute leaders and the “Big Ideas” from several AIH speakers. Some of the key topics included the role of artificial intelligence in health care, looking beyond the traditional views of women’s health, integrating mental health into overall health care, and strengthening medical education and patient connections. These ideas set the tone for discussions and innovation that would take place throughout the conference. 

Prior to the MHM sessions, Wesolowski and Buettner sat down for a podcast conversation, where they reflected on their first meeting at AIH in 2024. That first conversation lasted over an hour as the two explored how MHM and Blue Zones align through their work and mission, eventually leading the two organizations to launch the Blue Zones IgniteTM assessment in the RGV. 

Buettner also shared how Blue Zones grew out of his interest in longevity, a journey that led him to study five regions around the world where people consistently live longer, healthier lives—areas recognized as “Blue Zones.” Drawing from the insights gained through that research, Buettner and his team developed a framework that has since been implemented in communities across the country, helping people live better, longer lives by co-creating environments that support health and well-being. 

Reflecting on his original findings, Buettner pointed to the importance of learning from people with lived experiences, “We have verifiable populations around the world that are living 12 to 15 years longer than Americans do in full health. Why not pay close attention to what these communities are doing to live longer?”

The first MHM session was a lunch roundtable, “Transformative Allies: Re-engineering the Architecture of Partnership and Power.”  Wesolowski led the discussion which brought together leaders from health care, philanthropy, community development, and other sectors to explore what makes a partnership transformational. Themes of trust, humility, shared learning, and a commitment to sharing power with communities emerged during the roundtable discussion. 

Suzanne Watts Henderson, senior director of Faith & Health at Interfaith America, said, “We bring some assets, but we really need our partners and the assets they bring. We can’t get to the right solution without our partners.” Esther Pitts, president and CEO of Mat-Su Health Foundation, emphasized the importance of leaders learning from others: “Leaders must show up as learners with humility, because humility is strength.” 

Ideas in Unexpected Places: 

The following day, attendees gathered to hear from Wesolowski and Buettner during the MHM panel session, titled “Longevity in Unexpected Places: The Road to Helping People Live to 100.” The panel was moderated by Jeremy Faust, MD, Editor-in-Chief of MedPage Today and emergency physician at Brigham and Women’s Hospital. The discussion explored the origins of the MHM-Blue Zones partnership and the importance of collaborating with residents, community leaders, and local partners. 

Buettner discussed the Blue Zones framework and pointed to some of the lifestyle and environmental factors that support longevity, including a plant-based diet, moving naturally throughout the day, meaningful connections, and having a strong sense of purpose. When applying this framework across communities, he emphasized the importance of collaboration with local governments, businesses, faith communities, local institutions, and residents.  

During the panel, the audience learned about the RGV and the socioeconomic and health challenges many residents face. The region is also home to communities in unincorporated areas known as colonias, which often lack basic infrastructure and essential services. However, Wesolowski said that MHM looks beyond this deficit-based lens, recognizing that the RGV exhibits many of the characteristics commonly associated with Blue Zones communities: “They are incredibly socially connected. They run to each other’s rescue whenever it is needed. They have very strong families. Many of the households are multigenerational, living together, and taking care of each other. Grandkids are growing up with their grandparents. There’s very strong faith.” 

The four RGV cities that participated in the assessment phase—McAllen, Edinburg, Pharr, and Mission—expressed strong interest in advancing to the next stage of the Blue Zones initiative. Wesolowski exclusively shared with the audience that local partners, the Knapp Community Care Foundation and the Valley Baptist Legacy Foundation, have joined MHM in supporting an expansion of the assessment to neighboring cities, including Weslaco, Harlingen, and Brownsville, with the potential to impact nearly one million residents across the region. Wesolowski and Buettner shared the ultimate goal is to increase longevity and enhance residents’ quality of life. 

Ideas that Inspire:

Wesolowski explains how conversations can  inspire bold ideas, “My conversation with Dan at Aspen Ideas: Health sparked a shared vision that ultimately led to a transformative partnership between Methodist Healthcare Ministries, Blue Zones, and communities across the Rio Grande Valley. It is a powerful reminder that, with trust, collaboration, and support, a single conversation can evolve into something far greater. As we continue our work to empower the communities we walk alongside, I am grateful for this partnership and our shared commitment to creating healthier futures.”  

The connections and meaningful dialogue that happen at Aspen Ideas: Health can ignite and inspire. The conference serves as a gathering space for visionaries and thought leaders who seek to listen, learn, and collaborate with a shared commitment to communities. From thought-provoking discussions on the future of health care to transformative partnerships, AIH continues to be a place where bold ideas are not only encouraged but celebrated. 

For MHM, the conference reinforces the importance of embracing innovative approaches and transformative partnerships as it seeks to carry out its core mission of Serving Humanity to Honor God. The growing partnership between MHM, Blue Zones, and communities across the Rio Grande Valley stands as a powerful example that lasting change often begins with a simple idea—and the willingness to pursue it together. 

For more than 30 years, Methodist Healthcare Ministries of South Texas, Inc. (MHM) has worked to build and sustain healthy communities across its 74-county service region. In addition to clinical care for uninsured and economically disadvantaged individuals, MHM advances health by addressing the social and economic conditions that shape well-being—including the vital need for digital equity. 

Digital equity ensures all people have access to the technology, connectivity, and skills needed to fully participate in society, democracy, and the modern economy. Since launching this initiative, MHM has invested more than $35 million in digital equity efforts through grantmaking, capacity-building, strategic partnerships, and advocacy. 

Two of MHM’s digital equity partners—Mission Road Developmental Center and Girls Inc. of San Antonio—are leading powerful, community-focused work that expands connectivity, increases affordability, and strengthens digital skills. 

Mission Road: Opening Digital Doors for People with IDD 

Mission Road Developmental Center (MRDC) has served individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) for decades, providing care, education, and opportunities for independence. Yet, in today’s world, independence also means digital access—a challenge for many in the IDD community. 

With support from MHM, Mission Road launched a Digital Equity, Access, and Engagement initiative designed to break down barriers to technology. The program includes: 

• Assistive Technology Access – Providing adaptive hardware and software that supports reading, writing, communication, and online navigation. This includes device upgrades within residential homes, bringing programs such as Kibu directly to the individuals Mission Road serves. 
• Digital Connectors – Training staff members to serve as technology mentors—helping participants build digital literacy skills while promoting safe and confident online engagement. They currently have one Digital Equity Program Coordinator and 10 Digital Equity Program Connectors on staff. 
• Technology Infrastructure – Installing computer labs at the Unicorn Centers campus and the Mission Road main campus, upgrading devices, and strengthening broadband connectivity to ensure reliable access. 
• Hands-On Training – Offering interactive classes for participants, families, and staff, building confidence in using technology for education, healthcare access, employment readiness, and daily life. 

“No programs like this exist for the IDD population in San Antonio,” Mission Road leaders shared. “This initiative is essential for inclusion, productivity, and independence.” 

Girls Inc: Building Confidence Through Digital Literacy 

Girls Inc. of San Antonio inspires girls to be strong, smart, and bold through programs that develop leadership, STEM skills, and wellness. With MHM’s support, Girls Inc is integrating digital equity into its curriculum—empowering girls to navigate technology safely and confidently. 

Through the Digital Ambassadors Program, high school participants receive hands-on digital literacy training and then share their knowledge with the community. From helping neighbors log into healthcare portals at local libraries to teaching family members how to access Wi-Fi and online resources, these ambassadors are bridging the digital divide.  The MHM grant has been transformative, enabling Girls Inc to: 

• Deliver consistent digital literacy workshops focused on online safety, communication, and critical thinking. 
• Train staff, volunteers, and even donors to integrate digital health and wellness into programming. 
• Reach more girls in historically underserved communities, ensuring they are not only connected but confident in using technology for education, health, and future careers. 

“We would like everyone to understand that Girls Inc. is an all-encompassing organization that focuses on the whole girl,” said Dani Vidal, BiblioTech Niña Facilitator with Girls Inc. of San Antonio. “Our organization is an investment to the girls we serve. We help our girls learn vital skills that translate to everyday necessities, including but not limited to school-based skills, college and career readiness, navigating digital literacy, and community service.”

Why Digital Equity Matters 

Both Mission Road and Girls Inc recognize that digital access is more than convenience—it’s a vital condition for health equity. From scheduling medical appointments to applying for jobs, technology is a gateway to opportunity. By equipping individuals with tools and training, these organizations are ensuring that no one is left behind. 

How You Can Help 

Community support makes these programs possible. Here’s how you can get involved: 

• Spread Awareness: Share the importance of digital equity and the work of Mission Road and Girls Inc. 
• Volunteer: Serve as a mentor, guest speaker, or workshop facilitator. 
• Partner: Help create internship opportunities for Girls Inc participants or support technology initiatives for Mission Road. 
• Donate: Financial contributions sustain and expand these programs, ensuring access for those who need it most. 

The Power of Collaboration 

Digital equity is a cornerstone of thriving communities. Through collaboration and commitment, Mission Road and Girls Inc are transforming lives—one connection at a time. 

To learn more or get involved, visit: Mission Road Developmental Center | Girls Inc. of San Antonio