Petaluma Health Care District Honored with 2016 Jefferson Award for Public Service

PETALUMA, Calif., Nov. 9, 2016 – Petaluma Health Care District (PHCD) is thrilled to announce that it has been honored with the coveted Jefferson Award for Public Service from the Sonoma County Board of Supervisors. Established in 1972, the award is given to outstanding organizations and individuals who have had a deep impact on the quality of life in the communities they serve. Previous national recipients include Oprah Winfrey, Cesar Chavez and Jimmy Carter. This year marked the 10th anniversary for the Sonoma County Jefferson Award program. PHCD’s Board of Directors and CEO Ramona Faith were presented with the award on Nov. 1.

“We are honored and humbled to receive this award,” said Faith. “The Jefferson Awards Program has a rich history, and it is deeply moving to be considered part of this group of prominent organizations and inspiring leaders. Receiving this award is a testament to PHCD’s continued excellence and determination in providing services to the Sonoma County community. We will continue to further our mission and support the health and wellness of all our residents, and we look forward to doing so alongside our amazing partners.”

PHCD was honored for its excellence in community leadership and civic engagement. In particular, the Jefferson Award recognizes the district’s leadership as an invaluable advocate and steward for community health and its pioneering focus on addressing social determinants of health such education, housing, food access and the economy. PHCD was credited for expanding its approach to community health as a lead collaborator with other health, civic and nonprofit organizations through shared resources and key partnerships. Initiatives such as the Community Health Initiative of the Petaluma Area (CHIPA), Petaluma Sober Circle and Healthy for Life, exhibit PHCD’s continued leadership and advocacy within the community and the district’s emphasis on improving local health.

PHCD was one of only five award recipients from the county, with the Boys and Girls Club, Community Action Partnership, Vet Connect and Herb Williams also recognized.

About Petaluma Health Care District

The Petaluma Health Care District (PHCD) is dedicated to improving the health and well-being of the Southern Sonoma County community through leadership, advocacy, support, partnerships and education. Its vision is to foster a healthier community, a thriving hospital and local access to comprehensive health and wellness services. PHCD has served the health and wellness needs of the community for 70 years and is a public agency managed by the community for the community. For more information, please visit www.phcd.org.