Teton Valley Health shifts toward new philanthropy model

Teton Valley Health’s Board of Directors voted Wednesday, February 27, 2019 to change how TVH approaches philanthropy. Led by research findings and hospital leadership, the TVH Board of Directors have recommended moving efforts away from benefit events to a dedicated focus on donor relationships, and to move the organization into TVH as opposed to functioning as an independent foundation.

Teton Valley Health Foundation operates as a separate IRS nonprofit organization with a primary goal “to provide financial support through philanthropic giving to advance the mission of Teton Valley Health Care.” The Foundation has served our community hospital for over 20 years and has been an invaluable source of ambassadorship and relationship-building for TVH. Our decision to restructure how we solicitcharitable gifts has generated surprise and confusion among members of our community, which we deeply regret. Admittedly, leadership is still working to confirm details about the formation of a new Development department. More and better communication will follow as we work through this implementation.

Many not-for-profit hospitals, like TVH, have adopted in-house development departments. Results from other healthcare systems such as Intermountain Healthcare have shown that this change in the fundraising model improves fundraising goals, overall communication, promotes efficient teamwork, and still adheres to IRS nonprofit statutes. Donors may continue to make charitable donations, and See N’ Save Thrift Store will maintain business as usual after this change.

We thank the Foundation Board of Directors and Executive Director Jenny Wade for their dedication and commitment toward community healthcare. We believe their efforts have positioned us to take the next step toward growing philanthropy for TVH.

TVH leadership continually examines our operational processes and structures to ensure that we’re aligned with the best interests of our community, our employees, and our mission. Change rarely happens without strong opinions on both sides of a decision, and we recognize that some people are disappointed by our decision. The sustainability and positive growth of Teton Valley Health is, and always will be, the goal of all operational decisions because we exist to serve our community. That focus will never change. In light of the recent statistics of rural hospitals with a high risk of closing*, we are more dedicated than ever to implement changes that adapt to our rapidly changing environment.

Mosley D.  & DeBehnke D.  February 2019. Rural Hospital Sustainability: New Analysis Shows Worsening Situation for Rural Hospitals, Residents. Navigant