IMPACT
MEET OUR TEAM
Nachelle McGrath EXECUTIVEDIRECTOR
Ashley Brintle PROGRAMCOORDINATOR
Renae Rearick-Ballard ASSISTANT
VOLUNTEER BOARD & COMMITTEES
Valerie Amstadt
Bree Arzi-Mitchell
Donna Bennett
THESEINDIVIDUALSARE INVALUABLETOOUR ORGANIZATION, SERVINGASTHE BACKBONEOF LEADERSHIP,WHOGIVE THEIRTIME,EXPERTISE ANDPASSION.
Courtney Bennett
Erik Bergquist
Ronda Boller
Christie Brink
Lori Cargill
Becca Clabaugh
DaNece Day
Jennie Delong
Tina Dickey
Dave Ebertz
Cathrine Gallilee
Wendy Gauntner
Gail Heath
Justin Holcomb
Brenda Holden
Sharon Jensen
Leigh Johnson
Kip Junker
Camarae Kelley
Cassie Linduska
Dona Mansel
Alissa McGrath
Kristin McKenney
Kelly Morehead
Janda O'Bryan
JC Reynolds
Jana Reynolds
Bree Richardson
Caity Riggs
Jaelene Ritterhouse
Bruce Roosa
Tia Schmidt
Sharon Schreurs
Chris Shelledy
Kaylene Shelledy
Shelby Spivey
Danielle Stovall
Dawn Strohschein
Holly Tate
Emily Thurston
Katrin Wagner
Shanna Westbrook
Sydney Wilson
DIRECTOR MESSAGE
As we reflect on the past year, we are overwhelmed with gratitude for our community’s incredible support and generosity The Foundation has been truly blessed by the compassion and commitment of so many, and we want to take a moment to thank you for making 2024 a year to remember.
Because of YOU, we are grateful for the success of our programs. We have been blessed to continue supporting our neighbors when faced with health care challenges. In addition, this year, we were proud to introduce Hope Source, a new program dedicated to supporting mental health in our community. Mental health is an essential part of overall well-being, and through this initiative, we are working to provide vital resources and support to those in need. Your generosity has made this possible, and we are already seeing the impact this program is having in bringing hope and healing to so many.
Another highlight of 2024 was Paint Gillette Pink, where the power of community came together in extraordinary ways. From small gifts to large donations, every contribution added up to meet a big goal of $90,000.00 supporting individuals and families in our local cancer community. Your kindness is a testament to the strength and unity of Gillette and is something we will never take for granted.
We also want to celebrate the incredible success of our 33rd Annual Festival of Trees The investments you made in this cherished event helped make it one of the most impactful yet Whether it was through sponsorships, decorating holiday items, auction purchases, or attending the event, your contributions ensured success, allowing us to further our mission of serving the health care needs in our community.
As we look ahead to 2025, we are thrilled to celebrate 50 years of the NEW Community Health Foundation. This milestone is a tribute to YOU, our partners, donors, friends, who have helped us grow and thrive for half a century. Together, we have accomplished so much, and we cannot wait to see what the next chapter holds.
Thank you for your unwavering belief in our mission and for being the heart of everything we do. Here’s to continuing to make a difference, together.
With gratitude and hope,
Nachelle McGrath
NEW Community Health Foundation’s financial stewardship reflects a strong commitment to maximizing impact while maintaining operational efficiency.
Revenues totaling $1,083,69100 million raised in 2024 was sourced from diverse streams of contributions and annual giving, showcasing community and donor support
In-Kind donations demonstrate additional non-monetary contributions. And special event revenue, highlighting successful fundraising initiatives
The Foundation also shows an investment return on interest income (from savings and hospice house settlement) reinforcing financial sustainability for years to come.
THEFOUNDATIONEXCEEDSNATIONAL EFFICIENCYBENCHMARKS,ALLOCATING 4%LESSTOOVERHEADTHANTHE NATIONALAVERAGE.
A total of $645,237.00 was allocated to ensure effective program delivery and organizational support. Program services illustrated directly funding mission-driven activities. Fundraising expenses were used to secure future support and engagement, where management & general administration are ensuring efficient operations
WHAT DOES THIS MEAN?
With 84% of funds directed toward programs, not administration, the organization exceeds national efficiency benchmarks, allocating 4% less to overhead than the national average. This financial stewardship ensures that resources are effectively invested in advancing our mission
EXPENSES FOR 2024 $645,237.00 84% OF FUNDS WENT DIRECTLY TO PROGRAMS, 16% TO
BUILDINGCOMMUNITY, SPREADINGJOY& GIVINGBACK
Their past designs have ranged from a Toy Store theme to a wilderness display complete with a water feature, and Matt’s personal favorite, Stay Strong Gillette. Their trees consistently receive Festival award recognition, reflecting the impact of their creativity and generosity.
Matt and Laurie Walker, have always made community a priority While building Powder River Construction into a prominent and respected company, they also raised their family with a deep commitment to giving back
Beyond their business success, Matt and Laurie share a passion for Christmas For years, they have taken pride in decorating their home inside and out with dazzling holiday displays Families from all over the community drive by to admire their festive lights
Their love for the season extends far beyond their own home. For over a decade, Matt and Laurie, with help from their team at Powder River Construction, have been dedicated supporters of Festival of Trees. Their involvement was inspired by the memory of their beloved nephew, Ron Block, who adored Christmas. In the years since, they have become major contributors, and the community eagerly anticipates what they will create each year.
“Seeing the kids in our community flock to our trees, engage with our designs, and even vote for them is the best feeling,” Matt shares.
Supporting Festival of Trees is important to us because it helps fund healthcare in our community and that’s where the heart is as it affects everyone,” Laurie adds.
Now in its 34th year, Festival of Tree’s three-day event, marks the start of the holiday season, featuring beautifully decorated trees, wreaths, and centerpieces created by local designers, all auctioned off to support local healthcare programs. In the past 33 years, the event has raised over $3.6 million, benefiting programs such as Lifeline Emergency Response System, Cancer Care, Hospice Giving, scholarships, and the newest initiative, Hope Source. None of this would be possible without the generosity of dedicated supporters like Matt and Laurie Walker, whose contributions continue to make a lasting impact in our Gillette community.
PATIENTLODGINGREMOVINGBARRIERSTO MEDICALCARE
Access to quality surgical care shouldn’t be limited by geography or financial concerns. Thanks to the Foundation’s Patient Lodging Program, more patients traveling to Gillette for procedures can focus on healing rather than worrying about where they will stay.
Becki Peterson, Surgery Scheduler for Wyoming Orthopedics & Spine, sees the impact firsthand. “This program has tremendously improved access to care for so many of our out-of-town patients,” she says. By providing reliable and affordable lodging options, the program has significantly reduced surgery cancellations due to housing concerns while also easing the financial burden on patients and their families.
Dr. Scott Sorenson, surgeon at Wyoming Orthopedics & Spine, echoes this sentiment, emphasizing how essential the program has become. “These accommodations have not only helped streamline scheduling and coordination for surgical procedures but have also enhanced our overall patient experience.”
The Patient Lodging Program continues to be a vital resource, ensuring that those in need of specialized medical care don’t have to choose between their health and financial stability. The Foundation’s commitment to offering this support makes a real difference in the lives of patients and their families, reinforcing the belief that quality healthcare should be accessible to all.
SHERRI’SSTORY STRENGTH,GRATITUDEAND COMMUNITY
In July 2019, Sherri’s life took an unexpected turn when she was diagnosed with stage four metastatic breast cancer. At the time, she and her husband, Blaine, were focused on growing their family, cherishing life with their 4-year-old. What began as a fertility journey quickly became a fight for survival. After two years of treatment, she chose to undergo a full hysterectomy, allowing her to stop injections and reclaim precious time with her loved ones Since then, her focus has been on maintaining progress and keeping cancer as dormant as possible.
Throughout her journey, Sherri has found strength in the unwavering support of her family, friends, and colleagues at Black Hills Orthopedics. Facing cancer has reshaped her outlook as she now understands that tomorrow is never promised.
In 2024, Cancer Care’s Paint Gillette Pink event introduced its first Spa Day Giveaway, recognizing cancer survivors through nominations from loved ones. On her birthday, surrounded by family at Prime Rib, Sherri was surprised as the inaugural recipient.
“This was a humbling moment”, she shares. “Compliments and gifts make me uncomfortable, but I was so grateful for the love and support. Your first thought is, I don’t deserve this - there are so many others going through hard times ”
The Spa Day basket, filled with gifts from local businesses, reminded Sherri to embrace self-care - something often overlooked in the healing process.
“I’m so thankful for everything the Foundation does - Cancer Care funding, Paint Gillette Pink, the benefit walk, Black Cat Ball, Festival of Trees - all of it. Knowing that people in this community dedicate their time and energy to support someone like me means the world.”
Sherri’s journey is one of resilience, gratitude, and the profound impact of a caring community.
BEYONDPINKREPRESENTINGALL CANCERBATTLES
Every October, our community turns pink. From ribbons and clothing to sports jerseys, main street and 4-J Road, the color pink has become synonymous with Breast Cancer Awareness Month. But while pink represents the fight against breast cancer, it also serves as a powerful symbol of what all cancer patients, survivors, and their loved ones’ experience. When you see pink we hope you will see strength, resilience, and the need for unwavering support.
The pink ribbon movement has done incredible work in bringing attention to the disease, advocating for research, and supporting those diagnosed. However, the impact of cancer extends far beyond breast cancer alone. No matter the type: lung, colon, pancreatic, or childhood cancer, the emotional, physical, and financial toll is immense. The battles fought in chemo rooms, hospitals, and homes are shared experiences across all our community. In this way, pink has evolved into more than just a representation of breast cancer; it has become a beacon of awareness, support, and unity for anyone facing a cancer diagnosis.
Our community plays a vital role in Cancer Care. Over the last decade, Cancer Care has supported over 400 cancer patients with close to $700,000 in financial assistance. Showing your support through pink is a great way to turn pink into action.
LEGACYCOMMUNITY-
TOGETHERFORTHEHOLIDAYS
The holiday season is a time for warmth, togetherness, and the spirit of giving This year, The Legacy came alive with that very spirit as residents, family members and volunteers gathered for a special holiday dinner
“This event was absent from The Legacy since 2019 due to COVID I had the opportunity to host the evening, and it was truly heartwarming to see everyone enjoying the event” Mike McNutt, Legacy Advisory Board Chairman said
The dinner was catered by Prime Rib, served by volunteers with donated funds from many local businesses and supporters A volunteer played the piano and Energy City Voices performed before dinner, filling the room with festive melodies, and later, a special visit from Santa brought even more Christmas cheer. The atmosphere was filled with laughter, conversation, and a true sense of family as they all shared a meal together.
Many residents and their families expressed their gratitude, thanking The Legacy and Legacy Advisory Board (committee of the NEW Community Health Foundation) for bringing back the dinner and sharing their hope that this tradition continues for years to come It was clear that the event meant so much to them
A huge thank you to the dedicated Legacy staff, who worked tirelessly to make this evening a memorable one for residents and their families Their hard work and commitment truly made a difference in creating a warm and welcoming holiday celebration
SUCCESSSCHOLARSHIPSSHAPING THEFUTURE
Sisters Rylie and Rissa Pilon are both proud recipients of our prestigious scholarship program. Rylie, who is pursuing a degree in anesthesia, was awarded her scholarship in 2017. Rissa, following in her sister’s footsteps, was awarded her scholarship five years later, in 2022
Rylie earned her bachelor’s degree in 2021 and began medical school in 2023. Her five-year plan includes completing rotations through 2027 before starting her residency. Reflecting on the impact of the scholarship, Rylie shared, “Receiving this support made a huge difference in my journey and helping me through my undergraduate chemistry degree and now medical school. I love representing Campbell County and look forward to the day I can return.”
Rissa is pursuing a career in ophthalmology and general surgery. She plans to graduate with a degree in chemical engineering, along with a minor in biomedical engineering and physiology, before applying to medical school.
“Representing the Foundation is a true honor,” Rissa said. “The Foundation has played such a vital role in my education. Their support helped cover tuition and school expenses, allowing me to focus on my studies without the constant stress of finances Thanks to them, I can pursue my goals and build a brighter future ”
The success of Rylie and Rissa Pilon is a testament to the power of education and community support Their dedication to the medical field, fueled by their passion and the generosity of the scholarship program, highlights the profound impact such opportunities can have on future healthcare professionals As they continue their journeys, both sisters remain committed to giving back, embodying the spirit of perseverance and service
