News

CEO reflects on first six months at PdNHF

June 27, 2016

I had the distinct honor of being named the CEO of the Paso del Norte Health Foundation (PdNHF) and our affiliated foundations just six months ago. As you can imagine, it’s been a busy transition. I would like to extend my sincere thanks to the boards and staff of the Paso del Norte Health Foundation, Paso del Norte Foundation and Fundación Paso del Norte and to so many in our community for your support.

In this short time, the business of the Health Foundation has continued full steam. We held our annual meeting in May; welcomed new board officers and board members; continued grantmaking and collaboratives for Healthy Eating and Active Living, Alcohol and Tobacco Control, Mental and Emotional Well-being and Healthy Relationships; graduated the 3rd class of REALIZE Executive in honor of Bob Hoy; officially launched the new Fundación Paso del Norte para la Salud y Bienestar in Cd. Juárez and announced a $1 million challenge grant from the Hunt Family Foundation; were recognized by Grantmakers in Health in their latest publication; partnered with community organizations to launch giveEP, El Paso’s first giving day set for November 15th; and begun work on exciting projects like the linear trail on the Playa Drain from Ascarate Park to Riverside High School.

We have also embarked on a strategic planning process to guide the work of the PdNHF and our affiliated foundations going forward. We are committed to stewardship and transparency, leveraging grantmaking and inspiring philanthropy, and nurturing and collaborating with community leaders and partners to improve health and well-being in our region.

As the Health Foundation moves into its third decade, I look forward to working with you to make our region the healthiest across two nations and three states. Please feel free to call or email any time with your thoughts and ideas at tyellen@pdnhf.org or (915) 218-2615.