Nine healthcare professionals recognized with
awards and grants
LOUISVILLE, Ky., Sept. 21,
2023 /PRNewswire/ -- WellCare of Kentucky, a prominent statewide provider of
Medicaid managed care services, hosted its fourth annual Community
Health Champions Awards on Wednesday,
September 20, at Churchill Downs to honor individuals and
organizations that have played a pivotal role in removing
healthcare barriers, improving outcomes and supporting community
wellbeing throughout the Commonwealth.
Governor Andy Beshear spoke at
the event and recognize the extraordinary healthcare professionals
who work to improve the quality of life in Kentucky's communities through service,
volunteerism and advocacy.
"As Governor, and as a dad to two amazing kids, I believe access
to quality health care is a basic human right – and ensuring that
every family has access is an essential part of building a better
Kentucky," said Gov. Beshear.
"That is why I am so grateful for the work of this year's Community
Health Champions. All of this year's nominees are integral partners
in supporting the well-being of Kentuckians, and I am proud to be a
part of this ceremony honoring their efforts. Thank you to WellCare
of Kentucky for continuing to
recognize those who go above and beyond in helping their
neighbors."
This year, nearly 300 nominations were submitted. One winner
statewide winner was selected from each of the eight Kentucky
Medicaid regions. Regional winners were awarded a $3,000 grant each for their organization and the
state award winner received a $5,000
grant to go toward continuing the mission of their
organization.
"I see our Community Health Champions as examples of the best of
Kentucky," said WellCare of
Kentucky Plan President, Corey
Ewing. "Each of these individuals has worked to ensure that
Kentuckians are physically, emotionally and mentally healthy – and
they did it in deeply personal ways, giving their time, talent and
heart in the process."
The most prominent, statewide award was presented to
Katina Hayden, director of case
management of Catholic Charities of Owensboro.
In Hayden's nomination by her peers she was described as playing
a crucial role in managing recovery efforts from the tornados that
ripped across Western Kentucky in
July, and helped the most marginalized Kentuckians recover from the
natural disaster. Hayden provided assistance to more than 4,000
survivors through her tireless work, helping to provide hope to 14
counties.
"Katina represents exactly the type of service, commitment, and
passion that we want to support in Kentucky," said Ewing. "We know that people
like her help make Kentucky
communities healthier."
The 2023 Regional Community Health Champions
included:
Region 1: Tiffany Riley,
Kentucky Care
Riley is an inspiring Community Health Worker
for Kentucky Care. Her impact on the lives of homeless individuals
with physical and mental health problems is remarkable. She is
also a lead facilitator at Western Kentucky Situation Table,
connecting people at risk with essential resources. Tiffany's
dedication goes above and beyond to secure every possible resource
for her patients. Thanks to her valiant efforts, countless
individuals who often slip through the cracks have been provided
medical, dental, vision, and behavioral health services.
Region 2: Christy Hinton,
River Valley Behavioral Health
As a 988 mental health first
responder, Hinton is always on call, putting in up to 70 hours a
week. But her commitment does not stop there. Hinton goes above and
beyond for everyone she meets, always having a smile on her face.
Alongside her demanding work schedule, Christy finds time to
volunteer for New Beginnings and her local church.
Region 3: Sonja Grey, ECHO
Grey is dedicated to
preventing and reducing child abuse through education, advocacy and
support services in Louisville
Metro. She actively partners with non-profit organizations,
schools, and youth-serving organizations while serving in multiple
leadership roles. With more than 15 years of experience in leading
nonprofit organizations and for-profit businesses, she raises
awareness and support for various causes. Grey is extensively
involved in the community, serving on multiple task forces and
advisory councils for organizations like Kosair for Kids-FaceIt
Movement campaign and Jefferson
County Public Schools.
Region 4: Stacy Kuhn, Farmstead, Inc.
Kuhn volunteers at Farmstead, providing pro-bono equine-assisted
psychotherapy to veterans. Equine-assisted therapy helps
individuals with therapy through activities with horses. Farmstead
provides a haven for those who have served our country. They
understand that walking into a mental health clinic can be
overwhelming, and they have created an anxiety-free environment.
Kuhn, a trauma survivor, holds multiple licenses in counseling. Her
unique qualifications and personal journey make her the perfect
advocate for our veterans.
Region 5: Dustin Bowman, Frankfort Police Department
Chief
Bowman has seen how drug use has impacted residents and families
and understands that arresting their way out of the problem is not
a long-term solution. Instead, he works with many organizations to
address substance abuse treatment and prevention. Bowman is
involved in school activities, substance abuse prevention
initiatives, and organizations addressing homelessness and
affordable housing. Chief Bowman has secured grants for
collaborative efforts between law enforcement and service
organizations.
Region 6: Matt and Jennifer
Westwood, Chelsea Ryan Festival of Hope
Matt and Jennifer Westwood, our Region 6
winners, turned their pain into purpose. After their daughter's
tragic suicide, they dedicated themselves to helping the students
at Lloyd Memorial High School. Through their fall festival, Chelsea
Ryann Festival of Hope, they not only raised funds but also spread
awareness about mental health. It is a joyful event where the
community comes together, and mental health resources are readily
available. Every year, they raise an average of $10,000, which helps the counselors bring in
outside help for students in need.
Region 7: Faith Fountain,
Ramey-Estep/Re-group
Fountain works consistently to better the lives of individuals. She
joined Ramey-Estep Regroup as a Youth Support Specialist in 2012
and has worked with more than 200 young people. Faith is a
passionate advocate for diversity and inclusion within the
community. She serves on several community action boards, working
to ensure equitable representation and opportunities for all. Faith
initiated programs such as free ordainment ceremonies, fostering
inclusivity and supporting individuals from various
backgrounds.
Dr. Key Douthitt, Breathitt County Long Term Recovery
Team
Dr. Douthitt is the medical director of the North Fork
Valley Community Health Center. Dr. Douthitt played a pivotal role
in in helping rural communities during the flooding earlier this
year. He organized door-to-door medical teams to hit the hardest
effected areas across Breathitt,
Knott, Perry and Letcher counties. He coordinated 13 teams and
administered over 2,500 tetanus vaccines. Dr. Douthitt also
established a hotline for flood-related medical needs. Furthermore,
he also helped replace lost medications for those in shelters at
Wolfe and Perry counties.
Link to additional photos.
About WellCare of Kentucky
WellCare of Kentucky provides
government-sponsored managed care services to families, children,
seniors, and individuals with complex needs primarily through
Medicaid, Medicare Advantage and Medicare Prescription Drug Plans
across the state. WellCare is a wholly owned subsidiary of Centene
Corporation (NYSE: CNC), a Fortune 26 company that offers
affordable and high-quality products to nearly 1 in 15 individuals
across the nation. For more information, please
visit www.wellcare.com/kentucky.
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SOURCE WellCare of Kentucky