The Gunnison Valley Health Foundation is overseen by a board of community
members who volunteer their time and expertise to help develop, preserve
and provide financial resources to Gunnison Valley Health.
Jenny BirnieVice President of Community Health & Development
I am deeply committed to the health and well being of our community. At
the time, I was winding down on direct medical care and saw this as a
great opportunity to serve. As someone told me years ago, “I am
hardwired to serve.”
Why have you chosen to serve on the Board for such a long period of time?
Our health system is one of the foundational elements of our community
and serves all health care needs. We truly are a premiere health care
system regardless of our size. Helping Gunnison Valley Health serve it
constituencies beings great satisfaction to me.
What are your hopes for the future of the Gunnison Valley Health Foundation?
I would like the Foundation to build a sufficient endowment that will fund
all community health needs without limitation. I would also like to see
our Foundation be the nonprofit of choice for generous people in our community.
Get to Know Alisa Corey
How long have you been on the Board?
5 years
Why did you join the Foundation Board?
I believe our health system is the most valuable asset to our community.
I was actually born in the Gunnison hospital! My son was also born at
the hospital and it was the most amazing experience. Everyone was wonderful
and so committed to taking care of me. You receive a very personal service
where you are cared for in any department at GVH.
Why have you chosen to serve on the Board for such a long period of time?
I really enjoy working with all of the individuals that I serve with. We
each bring a different perspective and everyone’s thoughts and opinions
are heard-I feel like my ideas and opinions are heard and appreciated.
I am honored to be involved and help foster the growth of our health system.
What are your hopes for the future of the Gunnison Valley Health Foundation?
Growing up in Gunnison, I have seen such a remarkable transformation at
Gunnison Valley Health. I would like to be part of the future advancement
of all GVH program and services that meet the needs of all community members.
Get to know Carol Ann May
Why did you join the Foundation Board?
I joined the Gunnison Valley Health Foundation Board because the mission
of the organization is extremely important to our community. At some point,
all of us will need health services to support our overall wellness or
to overcome a health challenge and I am thankful that GVH provides these
services to us locally. I also believe my background in development will
be an asset to the EMS capital campaign and future efforts to grow much
needed programs and facilities.
Why have you chosen to serve as the Board President and what are your goals
for the coming year?
I joined the Foundation Board at a time of transition—several founding
board members are coming to the end of their term limits--and I knew this
was an important time to provide stability and help the organization move
forward in a positive direction. I believe the GVH Foundation is one of
the top nonprofits in the Gunnison Valley and I wanted to be part of supporting
an integral organization whose mission is to improve the health of our
community.
My goals are to complete the “Seconds Save Lives” campaign
for a new EMS station in 2023 and continue to support the growth of mental
health services that are so vital to our community. I would also like
to create more awareness about the role of the GVH Foundation and how
we support the development of new and innovative health services in the
Gunnison Valley.
What would you like the community to know about Gunnison Valley Health
and the Foundation?
Gunnison Valley Health is vital to the overall health of our community.
We are fortunate to have a health system that delivers exemplary physical
and mental health services so close to home. The role of the GVH Foundation
is to raise funds for GVH services and to strengthen the operations and
facilities of our health system. We fully support the mission and vision
of the GVH Board of Trustees and strive to inspire the recognition of
Gunnison Valley Health as an innovative, award-winning healthcare system
known for clinical excellence and comprehensive patient care.
What are your hopes for the future of the Gunnison Valley Health Foundation?
My ultimate goal is to establish an endowment to support the sustainability
of existing GVH programs and services. I am also a strong supporter of
the clinical excellence of our staff at GVH, especially our nurses that
have dedicated themselves to taking care of our community for so many
years. Our new Strategic Plan also focuses on support for employee recruitment
and retainment and I would like to see how the Foundation can find creative
ways to retain current medical staff and demonstrate our appreciation
for their incredible dedication.