Ashland Community Hospital Foundation Patrons Campaign provide scholarships to RCC Allied Health students

Over the last 30 years, Ashland Community Hospital Foundation’s (ACHF) annual Patrons Campaign has focused on a pressing health care need in the community. This year, it is addressing a critical need that affects everyone: the shortage of nurses and other caregivers.

Last year’s campaign supported the Ashland and Phoenix-Talent school districts’ summer programs, including the expansion of the school Nurse Program to help children overcome the disruption of learning and the trauma of loss due to the Almeda Fire and the pandemic. 

This year, the ACHF Patrons Campaign is partnering with Rogue Community College (RCC) to provide scholarships to local students pursuing entry-level careers in health care. RCC’s Allied Health certificates are awarded to students entering the workforce as medical assistants, dental assistants, pharmacy technicians, and phlebotomists. Scholarships will cover tuition, which ranges from $2,000-$8,000.

Filling the gap

Right now, the local community is facing an urgent and enduring need for caregivers. Many young adults are drawn to careers where they can help others, but often financial hardships make it impossible for them to achieve their dreams.And for many reasons, there is a gap in available financial aid for students who are seeking to begin entry-level careers in health care. 

Currently, 100% of students who complete RCC’s Allied Health Program enter the workforce immediately after receiving their certifications. The tuition assistance provided through this year’s Patrons Campaign will help make sure they can be here for area residents when they need them.

“These Allied Health programs will help people get into the workforce and at the bedside within a matter of months, “says Karen Drescher, chair of ACHF Development Committee. To learn more, go to achfoundation.org/patrons-campaign or call Kathleen Mackris at 541-482-0367.

ACHF is a nonprofit leading philanthropic efforts to advance innovative and equitable approaches to community health and wellness. Contributions to the foundation are tax-deductible and can be made on its website or mailed to 123 Clear Creek Drive, Suite 101, Ashland OR 97520.

The foundation is not affiliated with Asante or Asante Ashland Community Hospital.

Source: Ashland Community Hospital Foundation news release. Email Ashland.news Executive Editor Bert Etling at betling@ashland.news or call or text him at 541-631-1313.