At the start of this new year, we recognize that our shared health equity and racial justice aspirations and strategies are once again under attack. As fires continue to rage through Southern California and the incoming federal administration threatens the health and safety of many California communities, the big question for philanthropy is: how will we respond? At Sierra Health Foundation, we plan to move forward unafraid and with an even deeper commitment as we navigate the uncertain environment ahead. We take heart in the progress we have made with our many partners and the promise of health equity for all.
This year, Sierra Health Foundation celebrates 40 years of grantmaking, partnership and changemaking to improve the social determinants of health for California’s marginalized communities. These four decades bear witness to how community-driven investments can transform systems, save lives and help solve our most intractable issues. As we prepare for a tumultuous year, we are committed to the principles that we know work.
Firstly, we believe that communities most proximate to problems are most knowledgeable about the solutions. It is precisely because of our targeted investments and partnerships with communities and community-based organizations that we have turned the corner on issues like youth incarceration rates, substance use disorders, Black child mortality in Sacramento and water access in the San Joaquin Valley. Our work is always informed by and implemented by trusted community partners.
Secondly, we prioritize stability. The last 40 years have seen several recessions, a global pandemic and unprecedented social, environmental and political change. During these difficult times, rather than cut back community programs or break promised investments, we’ve found creative ways to sustain and even expand our work. With continued investment, this year, The Center’s Black Child Legacy Campaign, California Funders for Boys and Men of Color and San Joaquin Valley Health Fund’s Equity on the Mall event are all celebrating 10 years of impact.
At the same time, we remain nimble and responsive. Rising economic, environmental and political uncertainty have long required that we pivot to distribute resources quickly, whether for wildfire relief, mental health support or immigration legal assistance. We are preparing to strengthen nonprofit organizations and protections for those targeted by proposed federal actions, including immigrants, communities of color, Two-Spirit/LGBTQIA+ communities and others.
Lastly, as a philanthropy and intermediary, we believe partnership is the centerpiece of progress. When public, private and nonprofit sectors coalesce around evidence-based, community-driven interventions, we can change the lives and health outcomes of entire communities. This year, we will continue to spearhead critical public-private partnerships, including the State’s drug user health programs and inclusive economic development work.
Together, we enter 2025 celebrating our 40-year legacy of impact and resolute in pursuit of our North Star goal: a healthful life for all Californians. May this year bring us another step closer to achieving it.
In partnership,
Chet P. Hewitt
President & CEO, Sierra Health Foundation
Founding CEO, The Center at Sierra Health Foundation
Chet P. Hewitt speaking at the 2024 California Forward California Economic Summit, making the critical connection between education and health.
Chet P. Hewitt joins The Center’s Black Child Legacy Campaign team and community partners to commemorate a decade of progress.
The Center’s Black Child Legacy Campaign’s Kings and Queens Rise youth players at a 2024 season game.
Chet P. Hewitt pictured at The Center’s 2023 Equity on the Mall with Managing Director of Regional Programs Reyna Villalobos (left) and President Kaying Hang (right).
The Center’s San Joaquin Valley Health Fund community partners pictured at 2023’s Equity on the Mall.