Williamsburg Health Foundation

The Williamsburg Health Foundation is a U.S. nonprofit organization dedicated to enhancing the health and well-being of individuals in the Greater Williamsburg area, which includes James City and York counties and the City of Williamsburg, Virginia. The foundation was established in 1996 following a merger between Williamsburg Community Hospital and Sentara, with an initial endowment of $55 million to support local healthcare initiatives[1].

Mission and Vision

The Williamsburg Health Foundation's mission is to collaborate, innovate, and invest in systems that improve health and well-being across the Greater Williamsburg region. Its vision centers on creating an environment where individuals have opportunities to make healthy choices, contributing to a community where health is accessible to all[1][2].

Values

The foundation operates under several core values:

• Accountable: Transparent stewardship of community assets.
• Ethical: Conducting work with honesty and integrity.
• Respectful: Ensuring all voices are heard.
• Engaged: Connecting with and committing to the community.
• Catalytic: Initiating change for measurable impact[1].

Strategic Goals

1. Advance crucial health systems and organizations.
2. Target behavioral and social risk factors affecting health across life stages.
3. Strengthen the safety net for uninsured and underinsured individuals[1].

Financial Overview

As of 2023, the foundation's endowment had grown to approximately $147 million. Since its inception, it has awarded over $106 million in grants to support various health-related initiatives in the region. Typically, the foundation allocates millions annually, often focusing on grants that address social, behavioral, and healthcare needs[1].

Grants and Initiatives

The Williamsburg Health Foundation supports a wide range of projects and organizations, including those addressing social isolation, food insecurity, physical inactivity, and access to healthcare services like primary care, dental care, and behavioral health services[1]. In recent years, grants have also been directed towards innovative healthcare models and community capacity building[3][4].

Leadership and Governance

The foundation is led by a Board of Trustees and managed by a professional staff team. The Director of Health and Wellness plays a key role in developing strategies for integrating healthcare services and addressing the needs of vulnerable populations[3].

Community Engagement

Through its work, the Williamsburg Health Foundation fosters partnerships with local nonprofits, governments, and community groups to improve health outcomes and promote wellness across generations[1][3].