2019 Community Champions tour Salem Hospital's campus with Salem Leadership Foundation Director Sam Skillern.

Twelve employees from throughout Salem Health will be making a big difference this year in our community, as part of a new outreach program.

In its second year, the Community Champions program represents all walks of life at Salem Health — and in the community — from nurses and clinicians to administrators and food service staff. They are Angela Bradely, Beth Cooley, Brittany Katsinis, Christy Hooper, Joel Donley, Julie Flores, Julie Mullins, Kelly Blanco, Kelly Ward, Kyle Dillard, Lindsey Cretella, and Michelle McGee.

They’re getting to know Salem and the surrounding area with tours and talks with local civic leaders such as Salem Mayor Chuck Bennett and Salem Leadership Foundation Director Sam Skillern.

Finding the gaps

Guided by their own passion, each community champion will then develop a project to address an unmet need or expand support where a gap exists in our community.       

Champions were nominated by peers and supervisors as people who:

• Lead by example at work.
• Believe passionately in making their community a better place.
• Have the empathy to support others.
• Encourage participation.
• Build positive relationships.
• Advocate for good health — both on and off the job.

Passions inspire projects

Champions will choose projects that match their skills and gifts, and possibly work with charities to plan projects such as helping our homeless population, children, senior citizens or the environment. 

“Our program began last year to share what we saw happening every day on our campus — the culture of giving and compassion,” said Cyndi Leinassar, Salem Health’s community relations liaison.  “So, why not harness this amazing energy for the greater good of our community?”

Projects will come to fruition by June 30. The program plans to provide updates along the way and at the conclusion.

“We can’t wait to see what’s in store from this incredible group!” Leinassar added.