Centennial Area Health Education Center

The Centennial Area Health Education Center (CAHEC) is a U.S. nonprofit organization dedicated to enhancing healthcare outcomes in Northeastern Colorado. Established in 1978, CAHEC is one of six Area Health Education Centers in Colorado, serving a population of over 750,000 people, including residents of Weld and Jackson counties[1][3][4].

Mission

CAHEC's mission is to positively impact health outcomes in Northeastern Colorado by connecting existing and future healthcare professionals and communities with resources and education[1][2]. This includes developing pipeline and support programs to grow and enhance the healthcare workforce, aiming to address healthcare access and quality issues[2][4].

Programs and Activities

CAHEC offers various programs and events to support its mission:

• Nurse Educators Conference in the Rockies: An annual professional development conference for nurse educators from community colleges, universities, and clinical settings. The conference focuses on sharing best practices for teaching nursing[1].
• Educational Initiatives: CAHEC provides educational opportunities for clinicians and healthcare educators to build a stronger pipeline of future healthcare leaders[4].
• Community Engagement: The organization collaborates with local schools and healthcare partners to develop and reinvigorate programs that improve health outcomes in underserved populations[4].
• Mini-Medical Programs: Designed to introduce young people to the healthcare field, helping to build interest and engagement in healthcare careers[5].

Financial Overview

CAHEC operates as a 501(c)(3) public charity, requiring the filing of IRS Form 990 or 990-EZ. The organization's financial activities include contributions, program services, investments, and other revenue streams, with expenses focused on salaries, professional fees, occupancy, and other operational costs[1].

Impact and Recognition

CAHEC was awarded the Community Partner Award in 2022 by the Colorado School of Public Health, highlighting its commitment to community health improvement[1]. By engaging in comprehensive healthcare initiatives, CAHEC plays a vital role in enhancing healthcare access and quality in Northeastern Colorado[2][3].