Welcome to our digital newsletter! Your source for updates on health equity initiatives, community partnerships, and IHN programs, it’s your go-to source for collaboration, innovation, and impact in the St. Louis region & beyond. Let’s build healthier communities together.
KSDK HIGHLIGHTS IHN’S COMMUNITY HEALTH WORKER TORNADO RECOVERY EFFORTS
Last month, as St. Louis marked the one-year anniversary of the devastating May 2025 tornado, KSDK 5 On Your Side featured the ongoing work of the St. Louis Integrated Health Network’s (IHN) Community Health Worker (CHW) Tornado Recovery Initiative.
The story highlighted the dedication of IHN’s team of Community Health Workers, who continue to support residents whose lives were disrupted by the storm. Featured in the segment were CHW’s Kelvin Melton and Candace Henderson, who represented the broader team working every day to help individuals and families navigate the challenges of recovery.
While rebuilding homes and neighborhoods remains an important part of recovery, the feature focused on another critical need: helping residents access healthcare, medications, utility assistance, and other essential resources. Through the Tornado Recovery Initiative, IHN’s Community Health Workers serve as trusted connectors, helping ensure that health and well-being remain priorities throughout the rebuilding process.
Whether assisting someone in accessing medical care, replacing medications, securing utility assistance, or connecting with community services, IHN’s CHWs help residents overcome barriers that can emerge in the aftermath of a disaster. Their work reflects a person-centered approach to recovery, meeting people where they are and helping them navigate complex systems during a difficult time.
The impact of these efforts was reflected in the words of one resident featured in the story, who described the support they received as feeling like “angels being sent” during a challenging period. Their experience serves as a reminder that recovery is about more than rebuilding structures. It is about supporting people, strengthening communities, and helping neighbors regain stability and hope.
IHN is grateful to Melanie Johnson and the KSDK 5 On Your Side team for helping tell this important story. We especially appreciate Melanie’s thoughtful approach, her commitment to elevating the voices of community members, and her willingness to adapt as the story unfolded. One year after the tornado, recovery is still being written day by day, neighbor by neighbor. Through her reporting, Melanie captured not only the hardships that remain, but also the quiet acts of care, resilience, and connection that help communities heal. The resulting story serves as a powerful reminder that even amid loss and uncertainty, hope continues to take root and grow.
Read the story: https://bit.ly/4x0g9cB
Watch the video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EQDFDhWRV5s
Need help with tornado recovery or know someone who does? Contact the IHN Tornado Recovery Team at Tornado_referrals@stlouisihn.org or call (314) 202-7314, extension 4.
IHN is building out its Community Care Hub initiative and wants you to be a part of the journey. We are putting together a focused monthly newsletter to share updates regarding our efforts to generate new, sustainable funding streams to support aging services providers in the St. Louis region through our CCH initiative. We’ll share updates, key insights on opportunities, relevant national trends, and more. Please reach out to Bill Winfrey with any additional questions.
THE IHN’S COMMUNITY REFERRAL COORDINATION PROGRAM
By Doretha Dillon, Assistant Director of Care Transition
Started in 2007, the Community Referral Coordinator (CRC) program is IHN’s longest running initiative. The CRC program is a patient-centered intervention where CRCs work with patients and community members to assist in understanding and navigating health and social services. The following story illustrates the role of our amazing CRCs:
“Sheila had three ER visits this month. Sheila used to have a doctor but due to insurance issues stopped seeing him. The CRC was able to help Sheila figure out what insurance she has. Sheila was relieved to know that she still had Missouri Medicaid. The CRC was able to assist her with attaining a new card, and changing the PCP on the card, to help her future appointment go smoothly. Sheila desperately wanted to be re-established with her doctor. The CRC was there to listen, educate, and act. Sheila was able to breathe a sigh of relief.“
CRCs connect patients from inpatient units and emergency departments of hospitals with a primary care home for follow-up and preventative care. The program focuses on serving underinsured and uninsured patients; however, CRCs work with all patients in need of a medical home. On average, the CRC program engages with about 1000 patients per month. IHN’s team of CRCs utilize their unique knowledge of the St. Louis healthcare landscape to advocate, educate and assist patients with their transitions of care.
Stay connected with the latest updates from NITRO (Network for Innovative Treatments and Research in Osteoarthritis), a groundbreaking initiative focused on developing new, non-surgical treatments for osteoarthritis. Through IHN’s partnership with Washington University in St. Louis and the Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation, NITRO is helping ensure community voices help shape research and improve access to future innovations.
Learn more about NITRO at https://stlouisihn.org/our-work/community-driven-innovation/nitro/.
Subscribe to the NITRO Newsletter for project updates, community events, health resources, and opportunities to get involved: https://forms.cloud.microsoft/r/wvbSTge0ZY
IHN PRACTICUM STUDENTS
By Lauren Shaw, IHN Practicum Student
The St. Louis Integrated Health Network is happy to introduce the Summer 2026 Practicum Students, who bring a strong mix of curiosity, dedication, and commitment to community-centered health work. This group of seven students represents a range of academic concentrations, including health administration, public health, criminal justice, and policy. Throughout the summer, the students will have the opportunity to contribute to meaningful projects, engage with regional partners, and deepen their understanding of the systems that shape health outcomes across the St. Louis region. Their work reflects IHN’s ongoing commitment to advancing health equity while supporting the growth of future leaders in healthcare and public service.
Sara Tesfaye is a family physician from Ethiopia and current Master of Public Health student at Washington University in St. Louis, concentrating in Epidemiology and Biostatistics. This summer, Sara is most excited to contribute to the Community Referral Coordinator (CRC) Program, with a particular focus on connecting patients to a primary care home and improving transitions from emergency care to community and other health services. She looks forward to applying her skills in data analysis, data interpretation, and health communication to support program improvement and patient outcomes. Sara chose IHN for her internship because of its commitment to integrated, holistic care and its mission to improve public health outcomes in the community.
Meron Teshome is also a Public Health student concentrating in Epidemiology and Biostatistics, and shares Sara’s enthusiasm for the CRC project this summer. Meron chose to do her practicum with IHN because of the organization’s strong commitment to health equity and its focus on helping underserved communities gain better access to healthcare — values that align closely with her own academic and professional goals.
Sydney Seldon recently earned her bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice and Criminology with a minor in Public Health in May 2026, making this her first deep dive into a field that brings both disciplines together. This summer, Sydney is excited to continue her research into finding more efficient ways to improve the St. Louis city and county jail reentry process — work that has called for collaboration, patience, and new perspectives along the way. Sydney came to IHN after being recommended to connect with the organization before graduating, and felt immediately inspired by the work being done for local communities. She has been working within the Justice Initiatives group under the supervision of Latrice, which she describes as a perfect mix of criminal justice and public health.
Violet DeLuca is currently pursuing her Master of Public Health degree and chose IHN for her practicum because she wanted to learn about the many different sectors related to policy and healthcare and how they work together. This summer, Violet is most excited to work with the HSSN team to develop an evidence-based program for the pre-release planning and reentry of individuals involved with the justice system in St. Louis City and County.
Samantha Dunn is a Neuroscience PhD student whose research focuses on addiction and, more specifically, fentanyl-seeking behaviors. Working part-time this summer, Samantha will be collaborating with Bill and Ryan on a new maternal substance use grant, exploring supportive substance use-related policies that could be introduced into Missouri’s next budget. She chose IHN because she wanted to explore how different components of health equity intersect with addiction policy — broadening her perspective beyond her primary research focus.
Kathryn Hauver recently graduated from Washington University in St. Louis with a Master of Social Policy, concentrating in health policy. This summer, Kathryn is working on the Immigrant Health Project — work she finds especially timely given the major changes to Medicaid eligibility requirements currently underway. She chose IHN because of her background in community engagement and her passion for equitable healthcare access, which has led her to focus closely on Medicaid policy and the impact of work requirements on vulnerable communities.
We are so excited to welcome this talented group to the IHN family this summer. Their energy, expertise, and dedication to health equity make them a wonderful addition to our team, and we look forward to seeing the impact of their work across the region!
STAFF SPOTLIGHT: KAYLA MOORE
This month, we are thrilled to shine our Staff Spotlight on Kayla Moore, Network Coordinator for the St. Louis Home Repair Network. Kayla brings an energy and warmth to her work that is truly one of a kind, and those around her can’t help but feel it.
As Network Coordinator, Kayla plays a vital role in building and sustaining the relationships that make the St. Louis Home Repair Network run. It’s work that requires both skill and heart, and Kayla brings both in abundance.
Perhaps no one captures it better than Kevin Poe, Executive Director of the St. Louis Home Repair Network, who shared this about Kayla:
“Kayla is pure joy. There were many good candidates for the Network Coordinator role, but this joy would be the one word ‘competitive advantage’ I’d give to her if pressed to do so. It’s real, it’s natural… and it’s absolutely infectious. This joy brightens the rooms that she then easily takes the necessary command in, and I believe it creates a natural comfort and openness in those among her in these rooms. This is a tough part of network building, and an essential one. Literally every time I leave Kayla’s presence, I just feel better- and I’m not sure there’s a greater compliment I could pay.”
Highlighting the power of partnership. From community-based organizations to healthcare institutions, IHN is proud to collaborate across sectors to advance health equity in the St. Louis region and beyond.
HOME REPAIR NETWORK
By Kevin Poe, Executive Director of the St. Louis Home Repair Network
The St. Louis Home Repair Network (HRN) “celebrated” its first year in existence operating as a staffed entity on April 1st of this year. With the devastating May 16th tornado occurring less than two months into its existence, the year went by even quicker, but allowed an opportunity for both the HRN, and our member organizations, to display the power of partnership.
In the immediate aftermath, HRN staff, as well as that of member organizations, were involved in many coordinated volunteer efforts, to include the clearing of downed trees on roads and private residences, boarding up windows, tarping roofs, and clearing debris.
Understanding that community members could be even more susceptible to predatory actors, a list of local contractors was housed on the HRN website in the weeks following the tornado, along with recommendations on vetting their qualifications.
Additionally, staff of the HRN and its member organizations continue to plug into various home repair recovery discussions and efforts over a year later.
A grant was secured to close the gap on the funding needed to add to the HRN’s team in the fall of 2025, and Kayla Moore was hired as the Network Coordinator. Kayla’s role is the glue that connects the HRN team with its membership, as well as the supporting committees that drive their work forward.
She has been instrumental in driving strategic conversations within the committee work and bringing member organizations together to discuss, and solve, shared barriers, needs, synergies, and partnership opportunities.
Launched prior to originally planning due to the tornado, the HRN website platform has been a work in progress, and they are excited to “finalize” the product in the upcoming months, complete with a centralized intake platform aiming to better connect homeowners in need with the member organizations servicing their communities.
A Contractor Capacity Building grant was secured at the end of 2025, allowing for a third teammate, Jessica Gaines, who came on as the Outreach Coordinator. Jessica is overseeing a pilot cohort that began in April of nine minority-owned contractors who will spend a year receiving the training, skills, and resources necessary to achieve the minimum requirements necessary to perform grant-funded home repair work, as well as introductions to potential banking partners and other avenues of access to capital.
With a solid team now in place and already moving initiatives forward, the HRN believes that they are well-positioned to make a noticeable impact on the St. Louis home repair ecosystem, the potential is certainly there!
Learn More about the Home Repair Network: https://hrnstl.org/
From celebrating community milestones and advancing healthcare access to representing St. Louis on regional and national stages, IHN President and CEO Andwele Jolly has been on the move over the past several weeks. Whether supporting partners, engaging with civic leaders, championing community investment, or sharing in moments that highlight the strength and resilience of our region, Andwele continues to build connections that help move St. Louis forward. Take a look at some of the events, announcements, and community gatherings that have kept him busy recently.
Pictured left: Michael T. Whitley, St. Louis Community Foundation
Pictured right: Dr. Aramide Ayorinde, Chief Executive Officer, Family Care Health Centers
Andwele was honored to support the mission of Forest Park Forever as a member of its Board of Directors. This year’s Hat Luncheon celebrated 40 years of stewardship and 150 years of memories in one of our nation’s great urban parks, raising more than $665,000 to support the care and accessibility of Forest Park as a place of wellness, recreation, and community connection for all. Learn more at forestparkforever.org/hatluncheon. As an avid runner, Andwele was also honored to join the St. Louis Sports Commission and community leaders in announcing that St. Louis will host the 2028 U.S. Olympic Marathon Trials — an exciting event that will showcase our city’s iconic landmarks, rich Olympic history, and vibrant running community while welcoming elite athletes from across the country to compete for a place on Team USA.
Closer to home, Andwele joined Family Care Health Centers in celebrating the grand opening of its new 27,000-square-foot health center in Dutchtown. As an IHN member organization and valued community partner, FCHC continues to expand access to high-quality care across St. Louis, and IHN was proud to serve as fiscal sponsor for the City of St. Louis investment that helped make this transformative project possible. Learn more at familycarehealthcenters.org. Andwele also had the opportunity to reconnect with fellow global leaders at the Eisenhower Fellowships Annual Meeting (@EISENHOWERFELLOWSHIP). Since being selected as an Eisenhower Fellow in 2018, he has remained committed to advancing innovative approaches to healthcare access and population health, and the fellowship continues to provide invaluable opportunities to exchange ideas and bring global best practices back to the St. Louis region. Learn more at efworld.org.
Pictured on right: Sabrine Rhodes Executive Director of Refresh, Jason Green Author of Too Precious to Lose, and Andwele Jolly CEO of IHN
On the cultural side, it was a pleasure for Andwele to support friend, fellow Washington University alumnus ( @WashU | @WashU Black Alumni Council ), and former Obama White House staffer Jason Green ( @JasonGreen ) at the launch of his powerful new memoir, Too Precious to Lose. Jason’s story is a testament to the power of family, community, equity, and possibility — and we encourage everyone to add this inspiring book to their reading list. Grab your copy here. Finally, one year after the May 16, 2025 tornado, Andwele joined residents, community partners, and local leaders in Fountain Park to honor the resilience of St. Louis neighborhoods and the work that continues today. IHN was proud to support early community-led recovery efforts, including the development of 314 Oasis — a resilience hub in Fountain Park led by Dr. Punch — a powerful reminder that recovery is not an event, but an ongoing commitment to community healing and investment. Read more here.
By M. Ryan Barker, Chief Program & Policy Officer
Missouri Voters to Consider Amendments 4 and 5 on August 4 Primary Ballot
Missouri voters will decide on two significant constitutional amendments during the August 4, 2026, primary election. Both measures could have long-term implications for state government, taxation, and citizen participation in the policymaking process. Additionally, they have the potential to impact the health of Missourians because the first would make future efforts at citizen-led ballot initiatives that are health-related more difficult pass or because the second opens up the potential for the Missouri legislature to place sales taxes on health services.
Amendment 4 would change the requirements for citizen-led constitutional amendments. Currently, an initiative petition can amend the Missouri Constitution if it receives a simple majority of votes statewide. If approved, Amendment 4 would also require a majority vote in each of Missouri’s congressional districts before a citizen-initiated constitutional amendment could take effect. The proposal would also make the full text of initiative petitions available to voters with their ballots. Supporters argue the measure would ensure broader geographic support for constitutional changes, while opponents contend it would make citizen-led amendments significantly more difficult to pass.
Amendment 5 proposes a gradual phase-out and eventual elimination of Missouri’s individual income tax based on state revenue growth. The amendment would also require reductions in property taxes and other local taxes to offset increases in local sales tax revenues while preserving funding for public schools. Supporters view the measure as a step toward reducing income tax burdens and promoting economic growth, while opponents have raised concerns about potential shifts in tax burdens, especially on Missouri seniors who currently don’t pay state income tax, as well as a reduction in state and local revenues that could negatively impact the state’s ability .
Missourians can learn more about all certified ballot measures and voting information through the Missouri Secretary of State’s Elections Division.
IHN RELEASES 2025 IMPACT REPORT
We are excited to share IHN’s 2025 Impact Report, highlighting how our strategy translated into action across the region.
This edition reflects IHN’s work to strengthen the regional safety net through collaboration, community-clinical integration, workforce development, and cross-sector partnerships linking health with housing, justice, and community well-being. It also highlights our role in supporting initiatives like Empowered Thriving Communities and the Home Repair Network.
The report captures IHN’s continued growth, including expanded funding, strengthened partnerships, and programs that connect individuals and families to care and support.
Read the Impact Report:
https://bit.ly/48Ig970
Download the full report:
https://bit.ly/49gvD28
- Free Health Screenings | Every Tuesday, 9:00a.m. – 1:00p.m. | BJK Peoples Health Centers
- 314 Oasis Healthcare Resources | Wednesdays, 11:00a.m. – 2:00p.m. See Full Schedule | Centennial Church 4950 Fountain Park | See Grocery Giveaway Schedule
- Healthcare Resources | Mondays, 10:00a.m. – 12:00p.m. | St, Louis Public Library – Schlafly Branch, 225 N. Euclid Ave., St. Louis, MO 63108, No appointment necessary
- Health Insurance Resources | Wednesdays, 1:00p.m. – 3:00p.m. | St, Louis Public Library – Carpenter Branch, 3309 S. Grand Blvd., St. Louis, MO 63118, No appointment necessary
- Healthcare Resources | Fridays, 10:00a.m. – 12:00p.m. | St, Louis Public Library – Central Branch, 1301 Olive Street, St. Louis, MO 63103, No appointment necessary
- Family Fridays | Every Friday, 3:00p.m. – 6:00p.m. | St. Paul AME Church 1260 Hamilton Ave.
- NAHSE Health Equity Symposium 2026 | June 30th, 9:00a.m. – 10:30a.m. | World Wide Technology 1 World Wide Way
- BWS 314 Festival | June 27th, 1:00p.m. – 7:00p.m. | 5900 Dr Martin Luther King Dr, 5900 Dr Martin Luther King Dr.