Health Forward Foundation

We are grateful to have wrapped another impactful year at Health Forward Foundation. In case you missed it, check out my 2024 reflections👇🏾. In 2025, we remain steadfast in our purpose of building and supporting inclusive, powerful, and healthy communities characterized by racial equity and economically just systems. Happy New Year!

In the Twi language of Ghana, the practice of reflection and looking back is called “Sankofa,” which means to “go back and get it” and “to take from the past what is good and bring it into the present to make progress in the future.” As we near the end of 2024, Qiana Thomason is offering her reflections so that we can apply what we've learned to the new year in front of us. ⏩ https://lnkd.in/gdkHdJnb

We are filled with gratitude for our community partners who share our path toward health equity. We wish you much joy and comfort this holiday season. Health Forward's office will be closed starting Monday, Dec. 23, and will reopen on Friday, Jan. 3, so our team can recharge and spend the holidays with their families and friends. We hope your holidays bring you joy, comfort and cherished moments.

Health Forward President/CEO Qiana Thomason is the latest guest on the Illuminating Hope podcast 🎙️, hosted by Tina Johnson, Director of Community Engagement at Hope House. Available wherever you listen to podcasts 🎧, or share and listen here ⏩ https://lnkd.in/e2AmV5W5

Today, Health Forward held a convening to announce a new funding opportunity for 2025. We're partnering with nonprofits that are committed to bridging the digital divide by providing: 📡Digital connectivity 💻Device accessibility 🌐Digital literacy skills The goal is to increase access to reliable internet, technology, and digital skills to ensure full participation in society, from education and employment to health care, housing, and beyond.  Want to learn more or apply? Visit our website ⏩ https://lnkd.in/gFSvieKU to access the full FOA and application details. Let's work together to create a more equitable digital future! #digitalequity #fundingopportunity #healthforwardkc

Last week, our President/CEO, Qiana Thomason, had the honor of co-chairing the Greater Kansas City Chamber of Commerce Annual Dinner alongside J. Beto Lopez. It was an incredible night filled with inspiration, connection, and a shared passion for our beloved city. #WeBelieveinKC

Celebrating community and connection! 🤝 Our People Team was proud to be represented by Andres Dominguez and Kael Martin, MPA, at the 17th Annual Thrive Allen County Awards, recognizing the incredible work of our rural partners. These partnerships are at the heart of building healthier, more equitable communities, and we’re proud to stand alongside Allen County in this important work. #HealthForwardKC #powerofrural #TogetherWeThrive

Today, we celebrate the #PowerofRural and the incredible work of our rural partners on #NationalRuralHealthDay. Let's honor the tireless efforts of health care providers, communities, and organizations dedicated to improving rural health. Last year, Health Forward President/CEO Qiana Thomason reflected on health equity in our rural communities: "No one is better suited to inform the solutions needed in our health care and public health systems than the people who are battling the systemic barriers every day." Read the full post here: https://lnkd.in/gTV7-6qg Together, we can create a healthier future for all.

The Health Forward Team hit the road on our Impact Bus Tour🚌 with the United Way of Greater Kansas City team to see firsthand how our community partners are making a difference. We visited Sheffield Place, Hope House, and Reconciliation Services, organizations deeply rooted in Kansas City, providing comprehensive support and contributing to Health Forward's mission of achieving health equity and securing a fair and just region through leadership, advocacy, and resources. These visits are invaluable for our team, especially those who don't have the opportunity to be out in the community every day. #HealthForwardKC #impact100 #ImpactBusTour #waymakers

This week, we celebrate Health Equity Week (Nov. 11-15), as proclaimed by Governor Laura Kelly! At Health Forward Foundation, health equity is at the heart of our mission. We believe that everyone deserves a fair and just opportunity to be healthy. So, what is health equity? Here's how we define not just health equity but equity as well: Health equity: Actively removing obstacles to health and building the conditions for health, including good jobs, quality education, safe environments, and equal access to power. Equity: Just and fair inclusion where everyone can participate, prosper, and reach their full potential. Together, we will continue pushing forward for a more just and equitable future! #HealthEquityWeek #HealthForwardKC