Denver Health Foundation’s Annual Celebration is a yearly event that brings together Foundation board members, Denver Health leaders, caregivers, community partners, and key supporters to celebrate the power of philanthropy and recognize the volunteers who help guide it. This year’s event, held February 19, at the Evans School, highlighted Denver Health’s School-Based Health Centers (SBHCs) and the role donors play in supporting the health of Denver’s kids where they learn and grow.
Donna Lynne, CEO of Denver Health, opened the evening by welcoming guests, thanking the Denver Health and Hospital Authority and Denver Health Foundation boards for their service, and setting the stage for a celebration of impact and a look ahead. She noted that philanthropy will play an increasingly important role in the years to come — especially as Denver Health continues to meet the changing needs of the community — and shared her appreciation for the care teams and partners making that work possible. Lynne then recognized Sean VanBerschot as Denver Health Foundation’s new Executive Director.
VanBerschot underscored how philanthropy helps Denver Health do more for the health and well-being of patients and families, especially those who count on the health system as their safety-net provider.
The past year also marked a significant milestone in Denver Health Foundation’s comprehensive campaign, which has now surpassed $80 million in commitments. “Reaching this milestone is not just about a number,” VanBerschot said. “It is about the thousands of patients whose lives are changed because our community believes in Denver Health and chooses to invest in its mission.”
Looking ahead, VanBerschot emphasized the importance of growing the community of supporters behind Denver Health. He also pointed to key priorities on the horizon, including the new Westside Family Health Center, slated to open in 2027, and continued expansion of behavioral health services to meet rising needs across Denver.
The celebration also honored those who have provided leadership and service on the Denver Health Foundation Board.
Guests welcomed incoming Board Chair Fred Glick and new board members Elaine Berman, Montgomery C. “Monty” Cleworth, Graham Hollis, and Doug Seserman. The celebration also offered a meaningful moment of gratitude for leaders completing their board service, including Josh Hanfling, Sterling Crowe, Brooke Gordon, Dr. Bruce Madison, and Bill Saslow.
Josh Hanfling concluded his tenure as Board Chair after a decade of dedication in the role. Sterling Crowe had served as Vice Chair for several years, and Bill Saslow helped lead key finance and governance work. Brooke Gordon and Dr. Bruce Madison brought steady insight and advocacy to the Board’s work. Together with the thousands of donors who made more than 28,000 gifts last year, their leadership is helping Denver Health remain Denver’s essential health system and most trusted health care partner for life’s journey.
Guests learned how donor support makes a tangible difference in school communities every day. During the 2024-25 school year, Denver Health’s 19 SBHCs served more than 14,000 students. Students can conveniently access medical, dental, and mental health services on campus, reducing barriers related to transportation, cost, or time away from class.
VanBerschot led a panel conversation with Dr. Steven Federico, Denver Health’s Chief Government and External Community Relations Officer; Matthew Hoag, Director of Integrated Behavioral Health; and Aurora Soto, a SBHC clinic manager. Together, they shared what this care looks like day to day and why it matters to students and families.
“If my fourteen-year-old self had been seen through a lens that integrated the body and the mind, my story would have been written differently,” said Hoag. “We have to bridge the gap between physical and behavioral health to truly understand the person behind the symptoms.”
As the evening concluded, the message was clear: Philanthropy is not just about funding programs. It is an investment in the health, stability, and future of Denver’s children, families, and communities.
Your gift to Denver Health Foundation makes a difference in countless lives. Invest in Denver’s health today.
We have to bridge the gap between physical and behavioral health to truly understand the person behind the symptoms.
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