We release this 2019 annual report amidst historic events. The COVID-19 public health crisis and tragic events that remind us of the persistence of racial injustice powerfully accentuate how critical it is for KHF to remain steadfast in our commitment “to improve the health of all Kansans.” The health, economic and social damage inflicted by the pandemic and the lingering power of systemic racism affect every individual, family, neighborhood, community and organization.

For more than three decades, KHF has focused primarily on work to prevent disease and promote healthy behaviors. We know that social determinants – including income, race/ethnicity, where people live, and their levels of educational attainment – affect health behaviors and health outcomes. Our grants to state and local organizations enable us to understand and respond to the health needs and outcomes of our most vulnerable populations, neighborhoods and communities. In 2019, KHF provided grants to more than 100 Kansas organizations, investing nearly $20 million dollars, to produce healthier and stronger communities.

Grants to these nonprofit partners help to bring communities together, leverage partnerships for systems change, and increase their organizational capacity to deliver services. Improving the health of all Kansans begins by working with communities. We know local health needs are complex, so we rely on local stakeholders and leaders to steer us toward sustainable progress.

Much of our work in 2019 focused on how to improve systems and environments to produce better health. Specifically, we have sought to increase access to care, promote healthy behaviors, spur civic/community engagement, and lift educational attainment. In addition, KHF continued core funding support to our organizational partners: The Kansas Health Institute, Kansas Leadership Center, Kansas Action for Children, Kansas Association of Community Foundations and the Kansas News Service. These institutions remain vital, helping us to understand the broader environment and to build capacity as populations shift and social factors work against positive health outcomes.

As we navigate and respond to both the loss imposed by a pandemic, and the compelling need to tackle racism, we are learning more about the fragility and inadequacies of so many of our systems. The relationships and partnerships KHF has established over the years will be even more critical to determine the best strategies for responding to our state’s urgent needs.

It is a distinct and humbling privilege and responsibility to serve as stewards of the Kansas Health Foundation’s mission and resources. We believe, with the help of long-time partners, as well as new grantees, our state can overcome the obstacles that block our collective pursuit of healthy communities.