Congratulations to our 2014 IPHCA Winners!
Every year, the Illinois Primary Health Care Association awards outstanding staff and community members from the Federally Qualified Health Centers and community health centers it represents. Established in 1982, the Illinois Primary Health Care Association is a nonprofit trade association of community health centers that serves as Illinois’ sole primary care association. IPHCA represents 48 community health centers that operate over 450 sites in the state of Illinois. The IPHCA's mission is to strive to improve the health status of medically underserved populations by fostering the provision of high-quality, comprehensive health care that is accessible, coordinated, community-directed, culturally sensitive, and linguistically competent.
Carol Andrews, Manager of Patient Registration
Winner of the Ramona Lopez Community Health Center Award
The Ramona Lopez Community Health Award is awarded to individuals who have demonstrated a strong dedication to continually improving the care and access to care provided by their organization.
Carol Andrews is a devoted and talented member of the Near North team and has served in a variety of professional capacities since beginning her tenure in 1985. Ms. Andrews is fiercely loyal and totally committed to the Near North mission. She continues to assist and mentor not only her staff but other employees as well - embodying our values of compassionate and respectful treatment of patients. A stellar manager, her strong sklls and expertise in financial functions and IT has allowed her to assist in other areas of the organization.
Gladys McKinney, Board of Directors Community Representative
Winner of the Consumer Board Dedication Award
The Consumer Board of Dedication Award is awarded to individuals who exemplify dedication to the delivery of primary health care services and helping to guide their organization in responding to the needs of the community through business principles..
Gladys McKinney, a retired public school teacher, has devoted the last 16 years in helping Near North identify and meet the health needs of the communities we serve. She works dilligently to ensure the needs of the community are met through Near North's mission and vision. Ms. McKinney's service and oversight as a Board Member and her deep involvement in the community has resulted in Near North's expanding services offered, improving the quality of care to patients, and helping Near North to make informed decisions regarding new health center locations (the North Kostner Health Center was opened in December 2013).
Evelyn Reid, Volunteer
Winner of The Danny K. Davis Achievement Award
The Danny K. Davis Award is IPHCA's most prestigious award. It is awarded to individuals for their outstanding service to go above and beyond to further healthcare access in the communities their organizations serve.
Evelyn Reid has worked tirelessly for the community health movement for more than 40 years. She worked at Near North for 35 of those years as a registered nurse and an APN specializing in pediatrics. After retiring, Ms. Reid served for several years as a member of the Near North Board of Directors. As a current volunteer, one of her special projects is Near North's Men's Health Week. Since its inception, Ms. Reid has brandished torch by working on committees to bring to the forefront the crisis in our communities of men who historically neglect their health. Ms. Reid has dedicated the last 40 years of her life to public health in a way that embodies the roots of the community health movement. She has worked to empower individuals to take ownership of their health through education and health and wellness programs.