CHI - St. Francis

Rural areas like the Red River Valley are struggling to keep healthcare professionals active in their communities. Older professionals are retiring, and younger professionals are often lured away by urban healthcare system recruitment efforts. These factors can cause local numbers to dwindle while community-focused healthcare providers search for new ways to attract talent or—as in the case of CHI St. Francis Health—create it. "We're finding creative ways to get people into the healthcare industry," says Lynnae Wenker, CHI St. Francis Health Foundation Director. "That's why we started the CNA Program with Breckenridge High School." The CNA program was made possible by a $15,000 grant from West Central Initiative, a regional community foundation that focuses on economic and workforce development. CHI St. Francis Health Foundation reached out to West Central Initiative with the idea for a high school CNA program, and a partnership was formed. After speaking with the principals at Breckenridge High School, the CNA Program took shape and was implemented at the start of the most recent school year. Young Professionals The CNA Program allows Breckenridge High School students to earn CNA certification through classes offered at CHI St. Francis Health. After they are certified, students can begin CNA work at CHI St. Francis Health and other community providers. "Becoming a CNA is a great step for anyone looking toward a career in healthcare," Lynnae says. "We wanted to offer practical, real-life education to students so they can get a strong start in the industry. In return, we'll have new healthcare workers trained right here in the community." Seven students are currently enrolled in the CNA Program, which is led by two licensed instructors. The students learn on-site at CHI St. Francis Health, where they take part in lab work and see the role of a CNA in action. The class can accommodate as many as 15 students and will expand as interest grows, thanks to grants and donations from community members and organizations. To learn how you can contribute to efforts like the CNA Program at Breckenridge High School, visit www.foundationgiftlegacy.org. Harvest Fest 2017 Every year, CHI St. Francis Health Foundation hosts Harvest Fest, a fun- filled event that helps raise funds for local healthcare. This year's proceeds went toward workforce enhancement, education, recruitment efforts, and scholarship and loan forgiveness programs. The event featured silent and live auctions, various raffles and a gourmet dinner. More than $60,000 was raised to promote workforce enhancement, which includes supporting the CNA Program at Breckenridge High School. Thank you to all businesses and community members for the support! Thanks to a partnership between CHI St. Francis Health Foundation and West Central Initiative, Breckenridge High School now offers a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Program that will create new healthcare career opportunities for youth in the area. Granting Opportunities for Bright Careers 7 www.sfcare.org

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