Our fourth webinar, Measuring What Matters: Evaluating and Communicating Your Impact, featured Travis Lozier of Jordan Johnson, Inc. and focused on helping nonprofits move beyond counting activities and toward demonstrating meaningful outcomes and lasting impact. Designed for nonprofit leaders, program managers, and community organizations, the session provided practical tools for evaluating programs, simplifying data collection, and communicating results in ways that resonate with funders, boards, and community stakeholders.
Throughout the 90-minute webinar, participants explored the differences between activities, outputs, outcomes, and impact, and learned why outcome-focused measurement is essential for telling a compelling story about organizational effectiveness. Travis introduced practical frameworks for identifying meaningful metrics, using existing data more effectively, and avoiding the common pitfall of measuring too many things that provide little value for decision-making.
The session also highlighted strategies for translating data into clear, compelling narratives. Attendees learned how to combine quantitative results with real-world stories, tailor communications to different audiences, and create concise impact messages that demonstrate both accountability and mission-driven success. By emphasizing simple, purposeful measurement practices, the webinar encouraged organizations to focus on collecting data that informs action and strengthens community outcomes.
Key Points:
Understanding the difference between activities, outputs, outcomes, and impact.
Identifying meaningful measures using the “Rule of Three” framework: reach, change, and participant experience.
Evaluating programs without overcomplicating data collection or building new systems.
Leveraging existing organizational data to inform decisions and demonstrate results.
Developing clear and compelling impact stories that combine data with real-world outcomes.
Tailoring impact communications for funders, boards, and community audiences.
Whether you are responsible for program delivery, evaluation, fundraising, or organizational leadership, this webinar provides practical guidance for measuring what matters most and communicating your impact with clarity, confidence, and purpose.
Last week, Methodist Healthcare Ministries (MHM) welcomed community leaders, nonprofit organizations, digital inclusion practitioners, and partners from across South Texas to San Antonio for our 2026 Digital Equity Convening. Centered on the theme, “The Power of Place: Local Solutions. Regional Impact.,” the two-day gathering created space for meaningful dialogue, shared learning, and renewed collaboration around one of the most important challenges facing communities today: ensuring that every person has equitable access to the digital tools, resources, and opportunities needed to thrive.
At its core, the convening was a recognition that digital equity is not simply a technology issue. It is a community issue. It impacts education, health care, workforce development, civic participation, and economic opportunity. As more essential services move online, access to reliable internet, digital devices, and digital skills has become increasingly critical to overall health and well-being.Yet one message resonated throughout the event: there is no single solution to advancing digital equity.
Communities across South Texas are diverse, each with unique assets, challenges, and priorities. What works in one region may not be the right fit for another. The convening’s focus on “The Power of Place” acknowledged this reality while celebrating the innovative, locally driven approaches that are making a meaningful difference in communities throughout the region.
Recognizing the Strengths Within Communities
Throughout the convening, participants explored how local knowledge and community leadership are essential to creating lasting solutions. Whether addressing broadband access, digital literacy, affordable devices, or online safety, successful initiatives often begin by listening to residents and understanding the specific needs of a community.
The conversations reinforced the idea that communities themselves are best positioned to identify challenges and develop strategies that reflect local priorities. By building on existing strengths and partnering across sectors, organizations can create solutions that are both impactful and sustainable.
Attendees shared lessons learned from their own work, highlighting innovative approaches and emerging opportunities to bridge digital divides. These exchanges provided valuable insight while strengthening relationships among organizations working toward similar goals.
The Importance of Regional Collaboration
While local solutions remain critical, participants also examined the power of regional collaboration to expand impact.Digital equity challenges rarely stop at county lines. Communities across South Texas often face similar barriers related to infrastructure, funding, workforce capacity, and access to resources. The convening provided an opportunity for stakeholders to identify shared priorities and explore how working together can help accelerate progress.
Through panel discussions, presentations, and networking opportunities, attendees exchanged ideas about building stronger partnerships, leveraging collective resources, and supporting one another’s efforts. These conversations underscored the importance of collaboration not only within individual communities but across the broader region.When organizations align around common goals, share knowledge, and coordinate efforts, they are better positioned to create long-term change and advocate for the resources communities need.
Navigating a Changing Landscape
Another key focus of the convening was the evolving funding and policy environment surrounding digital equity initiatives.As federal, state, and local priorities continue to shift, organizations must remain flexible and informed. Participants engaged in discussions about emerging opportunities, challenges, and strategies for sustaining digital equity efforts amid a changing landscape.
The conversations highlighted the importance of resilience, innovation, and continued partnership. Even as funding models and policy frameworks evolve, the commitment to ensuring equitable digital access must remain steadfast.Attendees left with new insights and practical strategies for navigating these complexities while continuing to serve their communities effectively.
Learning from National and Local Leaders
MHM welcomed nationally recognized expert Dr. Nicol Turner Lee as the convening’s keynote speaker. Her insights provided valuable perspective on the broader digital equity landscape and reinforced the importance of community-centered approaches to advancing digital opportunity.
In addition to the keynote address, presenters and panelists shared expertise from a wide range of sectors and experiences. Their contributions enriched the conversation by offering practical examples, highlighting innovative programs, and challenging participants to think creatively about the future of digital inclusion.
Together, these voices helped paint a comprehensive picture of both the opportunities and the work that still lies ahead.
Digital Equity as a Pathway to Health and Well-Being
At Methodist Healthcare Ministries, advancing digital equity is closely connected to our efforts to strengthen health equity and well-being throughout our 74-county service area. Access to digital tools and connectivity increasingly determines whether individuals and families can access telehealth services, educational opportunities, employment resources, government benefits, and critical community supports. The ability to fully participate in today’s digital world has become a ‘super’ social determinant of health and a key contributor to quality of life.
That is why MHM remains committed to supporting initiatives that expand digital opportunity and strengthen community capacity. We recognize that meaningful progress requires collaboration across sectors and sustained investment in solutions that are responsive to local needs.
Moving Forward Together
One of the most powerful outcomes of the 2026 Digital Equity Convening was the sense of shared purpose that emerged throughout the event. Participants arrived with diverse perspectives and experiences, but they left united by a common commitment to ensuring that no community is left behind.
The conversations sparked new ideas, strengthened existing partnerships, and laid the groundwork for future collaboration across South Texas. More importantly, they reaffirmed a fundamental truth: lasting change happens when communities are empowered to lead, partnerships are built on trust, and solutions are created with people at the center.
MHM extends our sincere appreciation to Dr. Nicol Turner Lee, our presenters, panelists, community partners, and all who attended the convening.
As we look ahead, we remain inspired by the collective energy and commitment demonstrated over the two days. Together, we can continue building a future where every individual, family, and community has the digital access and opportunities needed to thrive.
Because when local solutions are empowered and regional partnerships are strengthened, the impact extends far beyond any one community. That is the true power of place.
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a time to raise awareness about the importance of prevention, early detection, treatment, and support for those affected by cancer. At Methodist Healthcare Ministries, we recognize that access to preventive care and screenings can play a critical role in improving cancer outcomes and reducing health disparities across the communities we serve.
While we are not a cancer treatment provider, we work alongside community partners throughout South Texas to help connect individuals and families with the resources, services, and support they need to live healthier lives.
The Importance of Early Detection
Early detection can dramatically improve treatment outcomes and survival rates. In many cases, screenings can identify cancer before symptoms are present or even detect precancerous conditions before cancer develops. The earlier cancer is found, the more treatment options people often have, and the better their chances for recovery. That’s why staying current on recommended screenings and having regular conversations with a healthcare provider are essential.
Screening recommendations can vary based on age, family history, and individual risk. Rather than waiting until something feels wrong, individuals should talk with their healthcare provider about which screenings are appropriate and when to start.
Resources For Cancer Patients and Families
A cancer diagnosis affects nearly every part of a person’s life. Beyond medical treatment, patients and their families may need help navigating the healthcare system, managing expenses, finding emotional support, or maintaining overall well-being.
Across Central and South Texas, organizations are working to ensure individuals and families do not have to navigate those challenges alone. MHM is proud to support and collaborate with organizations including ThriveWell Cancer Foundation, SLEW Wellness Center, Blood Cancer United, and the American Cancer Society, among others.
Each organization fills a different need within the cancer support network. Depending on the organization and program, resources may include patient navigation, financial assistance, emotional support, wellness services, and connections to additional community resources.
Together, these efforts help build a stronger network of support for people affected by cancer. The most important message is that no one has to face cancer alone. A strong support network is available in our community. See below for more information on our partners, their services, and how to get in contact:
American Cancer Society Methodist Healthcare Ministries Hope Lodge
Access to cancer care can become especially challenging for patients who live far from specialized treatment. For families traveling to San Antonio, transportation and lodging costs and logistics can add another burden during an already difficult time. The American Cancer Society Methodist Healthcare Ministries Hope Lodge, which broke ground in March 2025, represents a major investment in cancer care access for South Texas.
Once it opens in January 2027, the Hope Lodge will provide free lodging in a supportive environment for patients and caregivers, helping reduce those burdens so they can focus on what matters most: treatment and healing. It’s a powerful example of how partnerships can remove barriers to care and improve health outcomes.
For Methodist Healthcare Ministries, the Hope Lodge reflects our commitment to addressing the barriers that affect health outcomes. By eliminating lodging costs for patients who must travel for treatment, the Hope Lodge will help ensure that geography and financial hardship are not obstacles to receiving lifesaving care.
Taking The Next Step
Breast Cancer Awareness Month is an opportunity to turn awareness into action. To learn more about cancer prevention, screenings, or support services, start with the American Cancer Society’s website, Cancer.org. It’s a trusted source for information about cancer prevention, screening guidelines, treatment options, and support resources for patients and caregivers. Whether you’re looking to understand your cancer risk, find answers after a diagnosis, or connect with local support services, Cancer.org has resources available every step of the way.
For information about Methodist Healthcare Ministries and the work we do, visit mhm.org.
This information is provided for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult with your healthcare provider about your personal health, cancer risk, and recommended screenings.
The roadmap to excellence is shaped by lessons learned and opportunities for improvement; however, it is also a commitment from team members across Methodist Healthcare Ministries of South Texas, Inc. (MHM). To transform its internal culture and strengthen the level of care and partnerships in the communities it serves and walks alongside, MHM began exploring the Baldrige Excellence Framework.
Over the years, MHM has created policies, processes, and procedures, sharpening its focus on continuous improvement. This intentional approach led to significant milestones in the organization’s excellence journey, including submitting an application for the 2025 Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award—the nation’s only presidential honor recognizing performance excellence. MHM received the prestigious recognition as a 2025 finalist and was one of only six organizations across the country to advance to the awards’ final phase and receive a Best Practice Spotlight for its Thriving Workforce.
In March 2026, a delegation of MHM team members traveled to Baltimore, Maryland, to attend the Baldrige Award Ceremony, which was held ahead of the 37th annual Quest for Excellence Conference. Team members attended various sessions during the three-day convening, learning and engaging with other Baldrige recipients. The conference also provided an opportunity for MHM to share its story of excellence on a national stage.
Creating a Legacy of Excellence:
Courtesy: Hamilton Photography
Officials with the Baldrige Foundation, the U.S. Department of Commerce, and the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) presided over the award ceremony and presented the six organizations with their respective awards and recognitions. Representing MHM on stage was Oanh Maroney‑Omitade, Senior Vice President of Organizational Excellence. “When I stop and think about all the things we have done over just the past five years, it’s been phenomenal, and it has helped us become better as an organization,” she said.
Maroney‑Omitade believes embracing change has strengthened the organization’s mission of Serving Humanity to Honor God. “We have to decide if we are going to let change happen to us or if we are going to manage change in ways that help us be successful as an organization and accomplish our mission, which is about our patients.” Jaime Wesolowski, President & CEO of MHM, credits team members across the organization for forging a path toward excellence. “Together, we have built a stronger culture that continues to elevate how we work, lead, and serve. At MHM, our commitment to excellence is more than just high standards; it is embracing our responsibility to serve the least served with integrity, compassion, and lasting impact.”
The conference opened with keynote remarks from speaker Molly Baldrige, daughter of Malcolm “Mac” Baldrige, for whom the award is named. He was known for his dedication to and advocacy for American industry, trade efficiency, and global competitiveness during his tenure as the 26th U.S. Secretary of Commerce. Courage, humility, and discipline were described as hallmarks of his character—virtues which shape modern‑day approaches to leadership and excellence.
Elevating Diverse Voices in Diverse Places:
Various sessions were held throughout the conference, including panel discussions presented by MHM leaders and staff. Jennifer Knoulton, Vice President of Community Health & Wellness, and Jessica Muñoz, Vice President of Communications, led the Serving Diverse Customers & Markets session. MHM team members, Melanie Call, Community Investments Manager; Lorraine Hernandez, Director of Patient Services; and Matt Leonard, Director of Communications, served as panelists.
The discussion highlighted how MHM refined its key processes to provide exceptional integrated and patient-centered care, elevate customer voice, and build trusted relationships. “People were interested in our model of working with uninsured and underinsured populations; they recognize that it is a huge need. The way we work with the broad definition of healthcare, moving across different sectors, is essential for organizations to think about,” said Knoulton.
Muñoz emphasizes the importance of improvement and believes communities benefit when organizations can learn from one another. “This is about us sharing what we’ve learned in the markets that we serve and then drawing inspiration from what other people have learned so that we can continue to get better.” She said listening and partnering with communities is critical to creating processes that work. “We don’t ever want to think we have the right answer; we want it validated by the people who live there and who are experiencing the access to care that we are trying to create.”
Strengthening Workforce and Purpose:
Maroney‑Omitade and Bridget Lamme, Vice President of Human Resources at MHM, led the Developing a Thriving Workforce session. Panelists included MHM team members, Mike Cervera, Director of Human Resources; Sophia London, Community Health Worker Manager; and Melody Swisher, Director of Organizational Learning and Development. The session focused on MHM’s practices and model for workforce engagement, which led to a Baldrige Best Practice Spotlight. Lamme shared why it is important to take care of the workforce that takes care of the work. “There are so many things that we are doing in our strategy; you’re going to need staff that are thriving to be able to do that work. You start with the staff, and it carries out into the community.”
The conference concluded with a Q&A that featured the 2025 Award Recipients and Best Practice Spotlight Organizations. Maroney‑Omitade sat down to reflect on MHM’s journey to Baldrige, which had been years in the making. She said that by creating a capacity for excellence and organizational alignment, MHM reached numerous milestones and gained invaluable lessons, leading to national recognition. “We’ve moved along this process together, and we’ve learned as we’ve gone, and there have been wins along the way.”
The MHM delegation departed Baltimore with a new perspective on their work and approach to excellence. Niebla Marcela Alba, RDH, Dental Hygienist at the Dixon Health & Wellness Center, and Alexandra Quintero, Dental Assistant at the Wesley Health & Wellness Center, were part of the team that attended the conference.
“Overall, attending the conference left me feeling motivated and better equipped to pursue meaningful improvements. It reinforced the idea that excellence isn’t a destination, but an ongoing process that requires commitment, adaptability, and a willingness to learn,” said Alba. Quintero shared, “I felt deeply grateful for the opportunity to learn from and witness the journeys of other organizations striving for excellence. It is a source of empowerment to realize that I am part of our own path toward creating a similar framework.”
Maroney‑Omitade said she is grateful that team members were able to hear and learn from others during their time in Baltimore. She believes it is the lessons they take back that will lead to more change. “We don’t have to go back and move mountains every day; it’s incremental growth, and collectively, if we are all on that journey for improvement, that incremental growth is significant.”
(San Antonio, Texas — March 24, 2026) — Methodist Healthcare Ministries of South Texas, Inc. (MHM) announced today that Alan Kramer has been appointed as the organization’s new Chief Financial Officer (CFO). Kramer begins his role on Monday, March 30, 2026.
As CFO, Kramer will oversee all aspects of MHM’s financial operations, including financial reporting and controls; budgeting and financial planning; capital planning; and enterprise-wide operational excellence. Working closely with the President & CEO, he will help shape key operational and financial strategies that advance the organization’s long-term mission. Kramer will also serve as the organization’s principal financial representative to the community, governmental agencies, and the public, and he will be a member of MHM’s executive leadership team.
“I am excited to welcome Alan to this role with Methodist Healthcare Ministries,” said Jaime Wesolowski, President & CEO of Methodist Healthcare Ministries. “Given his years of service on our board of directors, Alan is already deeply aligned with our culture and our mission of Serving Humanity to Honor God. His leadership, financial expertise, and unwavering deep commitment to our mission will continue to strengthen our organization and guide us into the future.”
Kramer has served on MHM’s Board of Directors since 2018, most recently as Vice Chair. His professional background includes serving as CFO of Alamo Fireworks, along with an extensive career in the banking industry, where he developed deep expertise in financial management, strategic planning, and operational oversight.
“I feel so blessed to be given the opportunity to utilize my career of financial experiences to support the MHM mission each and every day,” added Alan Kramer. “I cannot wait to begin working with the extremely talented and dedicated team at MHM.”
Kramer succeeds Tony Lobasso, who announced his departure last fall and will begin a new role as the Director of Financial Services for the Rio Texas Conference of the United Methodist Church. MHM’s Board Governance Committee will soon begin the process of identifying a successor to fill Kramer’s Vice Chair position on the board.
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About Methodist Healthcare Ministries of South Texas, Inc. (MHM)
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. Using its earnings as co-owners of Methodist Healthcare, the organization strives to ensure that people who are economically disadvantaged and uninsured can live their healthiest lives. This is accomplished 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, the organization fulfills its mission of ‘Serving Humanity to Honor God’ by advancing health equity so that more individuals and families living in its 74-county South and Central Texas service area can thrive.
In 2017, Methodist Healthcare Ministries recognized the mental health crisis in Bexar County and surrounding South Texas communities–and convened mental health stakeholders to advocate for a new San Antonio State Hospital (SASH).
In 2024, the seven-year effort to secure passage of state legislation and funding came to fruition with the opening of the new SASH by the Texas Health and Human Services Commission. The $357 million state-of-the-art facility features single-person rooms, natural light, recreational experiences, and outdoor spaces to promote healing and recovery.
“Methodist Healthcare Ministries is proud to have been part of this journey,” said 2024 Board Chair Lavonne Garrison. “We remain committed to joining our community leaders and mental health stakeholders to continue the work to reduce and eliminate health disparities experienced by so many Texas families, especially for mental health services.”
“As a Wesley Nurse my mission is to care for the whole person, physically, emotionally, and spiritually while serving in the broader community. The same spirit of service drives my leadership in uniting the Hispanic, business community. Health and economic stability are deeply connected. When families have access to jobs, education, and support, their health outcomes improve.
Wesley Nurse, Dalila Mancha’s grassroots effort led to the founding of the Bastrop County Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, leading to greater equity for local business owners.
The Bastrop County Hispanic Chamber of Commerce has the potential to be a powerful force for health and wellness. By supporting small businesses and entrepreneurs, we help families build stability and pride. We reduce stress and improve quality of life. The Chamber also provides a trusted platform for education and outreach.
Through partnerships with providers, non-profits, and wellness programs, we can promote health literacy, increase awareness of local resources, and encourage prevention care. Ultimately, a thriving business community contributes to a thriving, healthier Bastrop.”
–Dalila Mancha, Wesley Nurse for Bastrop United Methodist Church
When tragedy strikes, Texas communities have repeatedly demonstrated an inspiring ability to come together and lift the most vulnerable in the spirit of healing. Methodist Healthcare Ministries (MHM) is proud to continue serving as part of that tradition by committing $3 million to support flood relief and recovery efforts for those communities impacted by the devastating flooding that occurred this past weekend across Central Texas.
“In responding to this tragic event, we recognize the needs of those impacted will go beyond meeting their immediate survival needs but also beginning the process of rebuilding lives and communities that were devastated,” said Jaime Wesolowski, President & CEO of Methodist Healthcare Ministries. “We are proud to support critical organizations doing important disaster relief and recovery work, such as those included in this first phase, as they spearhead the work to address these needs. We pledge our commitment to support their ongoing efforts and, together, we can help advance the recovery for the people and places that are grieving and beginning the journey to rebuild a brighter future.”
Of the $3 million commitment, $1.15 million has been initially allocated to the following organizations to assist in their efforts to provide emergency housing, shelter, operations, grief counseling, and mental health support, as well as to meet any other additional immediate needs identified by these entities and other partners serving the region. The remaining funds will be devoted to addressing the ongoing and emerging needs identified by the community as the disaster response efforts continue.
MHM has regional staff, including Wesley Nurses and community health workers, who are based in the impacted region. In the coming days, weeks and months, MHM will further expand its presence in the affected areas through increased funding, partnerships, and resources to bolster long-term community support efforts.
As the region journeys toward recovery, MHM will strengthen its commitment and support, bringing healing and comfort wherever it is needed most.
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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.
Methodist Healthcare Ministries is excited to share the details of the next chapter in Community Investments grantmaking.
OUR JOURNEY
Last year, Community Investments took time to examine current philanthropic industry best practices, identify gaps in the service-area resource landscape, and consider how MHM grant support can be most impactful in serving the least served.
Building upon MHM’s health equity strategy, we incorporated equitable grantmaking principles to reduce administrative burdens for grantees and to provide more flexible funding. We sought and incorporated feedback from stakeholders across our region and within our organization. Many of you joined our effort by providing your feedback, and we are grateful. As a result, we will introduce new approaches to grantmaking starting in our 2025 grant cycle. These changes will continue going forward, and MHM will seek new ways to continue our improvement journey.
WHAT TO EXPECT
Two types of grant funding will be offered for the 2025 grant cycle.
Open Grant Cycle: Proposals are welcomed from organizations serving communities within our 74-county service area. Applications selected for funding will align to priorities within each focus area as outlined by the Community Investment’s Theories of Change. The Theories of Change will provide clarity and offer potential measures for each focus area with the intent to inform the scope of applications, clearly communicate MHM priorities, and ultimately result in a more efficient and transparent process for grant applicants.
Cornerstone Grants: As illustrated in Isaiah 28:16, a Cornerstone serves as a critical beginning block in construction that provides a strong foundation to build upon as well as directional alignment. In this spirit of strong foundations, MHM will offer invitation-only Cornerstone Grants to select Access to Care and Food Security long-term partners who have consistently demonstrated outcomes aligned to Community Investment’s Theories of Change. Cornerstone invitations will be sent directly to organization contacts.
Applications for both grant types must align with one of our six focus areas:
Access to Care: Mental & Behavioral Health
Access to Care: General
Digital Equity
Food Security
Housing
Education & Workforce Development
Both grant types will follow a new payment schedule to move away from cost reimbursement, with no transactional documentation required for fund disbursements. We hope these changes will relieve some administrative burden and allow you and your teams to focus your time and effort on serving our community.
2025 GRANT CYCLE TIMELINE
MHM will launch the 2025 grant cycle beginning in September of 2024.
Additional information will be available on the MHM website in early September, including the link to the open grant cycle application and information to register for the Grant Cycle Webinar.
Current Grantees: We encourage current MHM grantees to reach out to your respective program officers to discuss your proposal. We look forward to learning about your great work.
New Applicants: New applicants may contact the Community Investments team at CommInvestments@mhm.org beginning September 1st to schedule a time to discuss your application.
Thank you for your work in your community and your partnership as we seek to improve wellness among the least served!
San Antonio, Texas (September 27, 2022) – Methodist Healthcare Ministries of South Texas, Inc., in partnership with San Antonio International Airport, and SAY Sí, unveiled a new art installation commemorating at the San Antonio International Airport on Tuesday, September 27. The art installation was commissioned by Methodist Healthcare Ministries and created by students of SAY Sí using more than 250 donated bras and ties collected during its 2021 Breast Cancer Awareness Month. The items were donated by breast cancer survivors, as well as their loved ones, through collection bins located at the San Antonio International Airport, Methodist Healthcare Ministries’ San Antonio locations, and ThriveWell Cancer Foundation.
Methodist Healthcare Ministries commissioned the art piece using donated bras and ties to foster a dialogue in the community about the importance of cancer prevention screenings and the need for support services, such as transportation and housing, for uninsured/low-income patients who struggle to access care once diagnosed with cancer. According to the American Cancer Society (ACS), breast cancer is the most common type of cancer in women in the United States behind skin cancer. As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, the totals number of cancer screening tests received by women through the Center for Disease Control’s National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program (Early Detection Program) declined by 87% for breast cancer and 84% for cervical cancer during April 2020 as compared with the previous 5-year averages for that month.
“We wanted to create something memorable to drive home the importance of screening and the impact breast cancer has on more than just the patient, but also caregivers, families, neighbors, health care providers and, really, it impacts our entire community,” says Jaime Wesolowski, President & CEO of Methodist Healthcare Ministries. “With cancer, there is always a ripple effect, and it is so important that we encourage the people we love to get screened early. We are incredibly proud of the students at SAY Sífor lending their creativity and time to this effort, and to the San Antonio International Airport for allowing this work to be displayed – their efforts can save lives in our community and across the world, as it will be seen by visitors from around the world.”
The art installation will be placed in an area near baggage claim in Terminal B at the San Antonio International Airport. It will remain there throughout October 2022.
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About Methodist Healthcare Ministries of South Texas, Inc.: Methodist Healthcare Ministries of South Texas, Inc. is a private, faith-based not-for-profit organization dedicated to creating access to health care for the uninsured through direct services, community partnerships and strategic grant-making in 74 counties across South Texas. Guided by its mission of “Serving Humanity to Honor God,” Methodist Healthcare Ministries’ vision is to be the leader for improving wellness of the least served. The mission also includes Methodist Healthcare Ministries’ one-half ownership of the Methodist Healthcare System, the largest healthcare system in South Texas, which creates a unique avenue to ensure that it continues to be a benefit to the community by providing quality care to all and charitable care when needed. For more information, visit www.mhm.org.
During these difficult times when it is very important to practice social distancing, Methodist Healthcare Ministries' Parenting team remains available to provide practical support to help parents and guardians learn parenting skills so they will be more confident and more competent leaders within their families. Our team is offering a variety of virtual classes via Zoom that you can participate in from the comfort of your own home. The classes being offered include:
Parenting Tips During Quarantine: Activities
Join the Methodist Healthcare Ministries' Parenting team as they share fun activities children can do at home – with everyday materials. These activities will help you keep your children occupied safely and keep them healthy.
Follow the links above to view the pre-recorded activities. For more information, please contact Anahi Alvizo by email at aalvizo@mhm.org or by phone at 210 607 1630.
Due to the ongoing need to practice social distancing to prevent the spread of COVID-19, Methodist Healthcare Ministries will not be offering its usual Camp Wesley summer program. However, Methodist Healthcare Ministries' Recreation & Enrichment team has developed a new free 'virtual' camp experience that children can participate from the safety and comfort of their own homes. Each class will be unique and designed so campers can participate with materials typically already available in their homes. Join us for fun and learning starting June 22. See the details below.
Virtual Camp Wesley (60 minutes)
Classes run Monday, June 22 thru Friday, August 14 beginning at 1 p.m every weekday
Classes are free to the public, but registration is required
K-8th kids can participate in activities with just a little bit of supplies.
Activities can be altered to be completed with whatever supplies campers have available.
Campers can log on from a laptop, cell phone or tablet
Follow the links above to register and you will receive a confirmation email containing information needed to join the class. Attendees register once and can attend any of the occurrences.
Our team remains available to help you find ways to stay active and healthy. Have a great summer!
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.
Due to the ongoing need to practice social distancing to prevent the spread of COVID-19, Methodist Healthcare Ministries will not be offering its usual Camp Wesley summer program. However, Methodist Healthcare Ministries' Recreation & Enrichment team has developed a new free 'virtual' camp experience that children can participate from the safety and comfort of their own homes. Each class will be unique and designed so campers can participate with materials typically already available in their homes. Join us for fun and learning starting June 22. See the details below.