WELLNESS
In The Spotlight:
Accessibility & Wellness
Thoughtful Design with People in Mind
MISSION
Excelsior Wellness aligns people, institutions, and resources to restore and preserve our community’s mental, emotional, physical health and wellbeing
VISION
That all people live healthier, stronger, and more satisfying lives.
LEADERSHIP
Andrew Hill, President and Chief Executive Officer
Ryan Kiely, Executive Vice President and Strategy Officer
Stacey Herron, Chief Operating Officer
Kitara Johnson, Chief People Officer
Tara James, Chief Medical Officer
Scott Davis, Chief Development Officer
Cynthia Setel, Interim, Chief Financial Officer
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Andrew Hill, President & CEO, Ex-officio
Carmen Green, Chair
Daphne Smith, Vice Chair
Dennis Hession, Secretary
Shaun Cross, Treasurer
Jerry Crowshoe
Shari Clarke, Ph.D
Amanda Reedy, Ph.D
LJ Klinkenberg
Excelsior Wellness Waves Community News Magazine is published quarterly and is available free of charge to all Excelsior Wellness employees and Spokane Community Members.
Excelsior Wellness is a non-profit corporation comprised of Integrated Behavioral Health, Wellness and Primary Care organizations that meet the unique needs in the Inland Northwest.
Family Medicine’s New Look
10 THE EMPTY NEST
Let’s talk about it
MESSAGE FROM THE CEO
Your trust and collaboration are the foundation of our success, and together, we are building a brighter future for all.
As I reflect on my over fifteen years representing Excelsior Wellness, I am filled with pride as we celebrate the grand reopening of Excelsior Family Medicine and Wellness Center on October 10, 2024. This new chapter is a testament to the resilience, dedication, and care of our entire team and community. With the expansion of our clinic and the growing impact of our employees across the Pacific Northwest, I am reminded of the strength within our community to bring about meaningful change
This new facility is more than just a building it’s a reflection of Excelsior’s deep commitment to caring for our community. Every detail has been designed with accessibility, privacy, and healing in mind, from the serene preservation of the land to the thoughtful spaces throughout the property Our new features are designed to make services easily accessible for everyone, including those who use wheelchairs, while also creating welcoming spaces that prioritize privacy, green spaces, and promote wellness.
I want to extend my deepest thanks to our neighbors and community members for your unwavering support, encouragement, and patience as we transition into this new space. Your trust and collaboration are the foundation of our success, and together, we are building a brighter future for all.
As we continue to grow, we recognize that the emotional journey of many in our community is ongoing. From parents transitioning into empty-nester life to youth navigating increasingly complex challenges, including the
upcoming winter months, the need for emotional support is more vital than ever That’s why our Teen Text Line remains available for youth who need someone to talk to, staffed by peers ready to listen as the days grow darker.
For adults experiencing hardships from everything between empty nests due to children off to college or general loss of motivation, we encourage you to consider joining our Excelsior Caregiver Advisory Council or volunteering within our facility Just a tour of our grounds may be a helpful start to moving forward in a positive direction.
Looking ahead, as we face the lingering impacts of the mental health epidemic, I draw inspiration from the stories of those we serve In times of uncertainty, they have turned challenges into opportunities, engaging in crucial conversations about mental health and creating advocacy that supports well-being.
On behalf of the leadership team and the board of directors, I want to express our excitement about the opportunities that lie ahead We firmly believe that we are better together and so are the communities we serve.
With each small step forward, we are making progress, one day at a time, toward a future where health and wellness are accessible to all.
THANK YOU
Andrew Hill
SCHEDULED BREAKS FOR LOCAL SCHOOL DISTRICTS
Wellness Village Update
ExcelsiorWellnessiscommittedtoworkingcollaborativelywiththecommunity toensuretheproposedlandusechangesbenefitallneighborsandcontribute tothearea'soverallwellnessandinfrastructure
Atarecentneighborhoodcouncilmeeting,Excelsior’sdevelopmentplans receivedstrongsupportfromattendees Thepositivereceptionhighlights thecommunity'srecognitionoftheessentialservicestheprojectwill provide.
Weareworkingcloselywithcityplannerstoensurethattrafficandstreet usageareeffectivelymanaged,withsolutionsthatprioritizesafetyand easeofaccessforthecommunity
ExcelsiorWellnessisdedicatedtopreservingthenaturalandaesthetic featuresofthearea Weareincorporatinggreenspacesandpreservation zonesintotheprojectandcollaboratingwiththeSpokaneTribeto safeguardculturallysignificantfeaturessuchaspictographs
Wehaveactivelyengagedwithresidentsoftheneighborhoodthrough publicmeetingsanddiscussions,incorporatingtheirfeedbackintoour plans Ourgoalremainstocreateaspacethatenhancestheneighborhood andservesthebroadercommunity’sneeds
Wewillcontinuetowelcomefurtherconversationsandappreciatetheongoing collaborationwiththecommunitythroughoutthisprocess Toscheduleatour oranswerquestionspleaseemailinfo@ExcelsiorWellnessorg
DemetriusPalmer
EMPLOYEE SPOTLIGHT
Story by Anthony Jones
Demetrius Palmer is a dynamic executive with a deep passion for fostering community engagement, youth development, and operational excellence As the Vice President of Community Outrea Excelsior Wellness, he leads vita programs while forging impactf stakeholders in the mental and b fields. His leadership continues outreach efforts, solidifying the well-being of the Spokane comm
In recognition of his leadership Demetrius was recently nomina Star Award by the Journal of Bus innovative work and significant area. He was also awarded the C Leadership Award at Excelsior W named one of the Top 20 Entrep Spokane/CDA Magazine in 2018, his influence and dedication
Demetrius’s commitment to com evident through his active partic development, including his role Owner of Impact Motion Sports, leadership of the Spokane Wolfp Team Through these roles, he p mentorship and engagement, en influence on Spokane’s youth. H extensive experience in event management, operational leadership, and strategic collaboration.
With these accomplishments, Demetrius Palmer continues to exemplify a commitment to enhancing the lives of individuals and communities through strategic leadership, innovative programs, and strong partnerships.
Congrats, Coach! We are all very proud of you.
Meet Demetrius Palmer, Vice President of Community Outreach and Engagement, Excelsior Wellness
AACCESSIBILITY CCESSIBILITY AND WELLNESS AND WELLNESS
Thoughtful Design with People in Mind
by Kitara Johnson
much like how we nurture the individuals in our care. These trees are now free to absorb the water and nutrients they need, and in turn, they offer shade, serenity, and a sense of peace to all who wander here
As I walked through the newly remodeled Excelsior Family Medicine and Wellness Center alongside Andrew Hill, CEO of Excelsior Wellness, I was filled with pride and a deep sense of gratitude This space is more than just a facility it’s a true reflection of our commitment to wellness, accessibility, and community Andrew had a clear vision for this project: to create a place where people not only receive care but also begin their healing journey the moment they step onto the grounds Walking through these thoughtfully designed spaces, it’s easy to see how that vision has come to life. Every detail, from the layout of the ADA parking spaces to the zero-grade walkways, was crafted with accessibility in mind.
Doing this, we are able to ensure that no one feels excluded. Whether arriving by bus or car, each path leads smoothly into the heart of the wellness center, eliminating barriers that so many face when seeking care But the beauty of the space goes beyond physical accessibility there’s something here that speaks to the soul: the trees These majestic trees have stood on this land long before Excelsior was even a concept, and instead of removing them for new construction, the design team, led by dedicated landscape artists, made the deliberate choice to integrate them into the heart of the center. These trees are a living symbol of resilience and continuity, and walking beneath their branches, you can feel their quiet strength.
Andrew, CEO of Excelsior, often emphasizes that healing isn’t just about what happens inside the clinic walls it’s about the entire environment The trees on this property, with their deep roots and towering presence, remind us that nature plays an essential role in our well-being They offer a space for reflection and grounding, allowing visitors to find calm and solace, even in the midst of difficult times
Preserving these trees was not only an aesthetic decision but a commitment to creating a healing atmosphere. The careful removal of surrounding asphalt allowed their roots to thrive once again,
As we continue to engage with organizations that specialize in accessibility, inviting them to experience the space firsthand, we remain committed to ensuring that every individual feels welcome and supported Whether you’re a customer, staff member, or community partner, the experience of visiting these grounds is meant to bring a sense of peace and connection to nature, to others, and to oneself.
I am incredibly proud of what we’ve created here at Excelsior, and I’m excited to share this space with the community. It’s not just about the care we provide; it’s about how every element of this center, from the preserved trees to the thoughtfully designed healing spaces, works together to offer something truly special a place where healing begins as soon as you arrive As we open our doors and continue to grow, I invite you to come and experience this place for yourself Take a moment under the shade of our legacy trees, travel the paths designed for all, visit the healing gardens, and feel the power of a space built with the community, wellness, and nature at its heart.
WE’RE OPEN!
! My name is Daniel Repsold, and I’m to announce that our new clinic on rail Road is now open! This beautiful ce offers expanded services, including oviders in primary care, mental health ng, and psychiatry We even have an aboratory for added convenience
ontinue to receive the same persond care from our dedicated team. We accepting new patients, so call us at -1100 or scan the QR code to schedule ntment today
DanielRepsold,MD Physician, ExcelsiorFamilyMedicine
YOU CAN HELP KEEP KIDS SAFE AT SCHOOL
9 Tips to Develop a New Hobby
Take it back to your childhood: Revisit the activities you enjoyed as a kid. It could be a great start
Try a couple of ideas: Experiment with different hobbies to find what you enjoy. A little trial and error
Choose the unexpected: Consider hobbies that are the opposite of what you'd expect You might be surprised
Find an activity that helps you forget about your day: Engage in something absorbing
Make a list of things you enjoy doing: Use this list to narrow down your options
Talk to friends and family: They may suggest new activities or provide insights
Start small: Don’t go willy-nilly and buy a woodworking bench right off the bat!
Set Clear Goals: Define what you want to achieve with your hobby Whether it's mastering a technique, completing a project, or simply enjoying yourself, having goals gives direction.
Take your time: It may take days or months to get into the groove of something new. Remember to be patient with yourself
Identify At-Risk Students:
• Recognize Signs: Be aware of signs of stress, anxiety, or other concerns
• Encourage Use: Gently suggest the Teen Text Line to students who may need it.
Promote Awareness:
• Spread the Word: Share information about the Teen Text Line with students.
• Display Posters: Place Teen Text Line posters in common areas.
• Include in Assemblies: Mention the service during school announcements and events
If you or someone you know is struggling, please do not hesitate to reach out Sometimes, even a simple conversation can be a lifeline
MANAGING THE STRESS of an Empty Nest
By Matthew M Family Advisory Board Member
A few weeks ago, a friend sent me a meme of a child trying to hold back tears during their first-day-of-school interview, captioned ‘Me moving my child into college this past weekend.’ The departure of children from the home is a natural milestone in parenting My youngest is only nine, but I still dread the day she’ll leave and run off to college. This phase, often referred to as empty nest syndrome, represents a significant emotional shift as parents transition from active child-rearing to a new chapter in life While not a clinical diagnosis, empty nest syndrome describes the feelings of grief, loneliness, and loss that many parents experience when their last child leaves home.
For some, this change marks the end of an era filled with daily caregiving routines. Suddenly, there’s more free time and fewer responsibilities. I’m no longer shuffling my kids to after school programs or working out carpool duties with the neighbors. This shift can bring a range of emotions, from sadness and anxiety to uncertainty about one’s purpose, as the parental role evolves.
The intensity and duration of these feelings can vary. Some parents may experience temporary sadness that fades as they adjust to their new reality, while others feel relief, happy to have more time for themselves. However, some may struggle with persistent feelings of sadness, loneliness, or even depression. Recognizing these emotions as a natural response to a major life change is important
rediscovering old passions, and building a support network can make a big difference. It helps to anticipate the emotional phases of empty nest syndrome, which may include denial, anger, acceptance, and ultimately, a renewed sense of purpose.
Parents can support themselves during this period by setting personal goals, maintaining regular communication with their children, and nurturing relationships with partners and friends. Engaging in new activities and focusing on the positives of this new life stage can foster fulfillment and purpose.
While this milestone is a common experience, professional support can be valuable for those finding it difficult to manage overwhelming emotions. Therapy can offer strategies for coping with grief and adjusting to the new dynamics of an empty nest household.
Ultimately, empty nest syndrome signifies not an ending, but a transition to a new phase of parenting and personal growth. By acknowledging and addressing the emotions that come with it, parents can embrace opportunities for self-discovery and fulfillment that lie ahead. Though I still have some time with my kids before they venture out on their own, I plan on making the most of our time together in the meantime.
