115K Community Wellness Grant Awarded to WCHS Public Health Nursing

November 5, 2025

Winnebago, NE – Winnebago Comprehensive Healthcare System (WCHS) is proud to announce that its Public Health Nursing (PHN) has been awarded the Great Plains Tribal Chairman’s Health Board (GPTCHB) Grant for the second consecutive year, receiving $115,500 in funding to continue its impactful chronic disease prevention and management programs.

The GPTCHB Grant supports programs that demonstrate measurable success in chronic disease education, prevention, and management while honoring cultural relevance and community involvement. The grant provides funding that will support some of the PHN events and activities throughout the coming year.

“Winning this award again reflects the dedication of our PHN team and the incredible engagement from our community,” said Carla Olson Griffin, RN, BS, MSN/MHA, Director of the PHN Program. “The Winnebago community really shows up for these events — they look forward to them, participate wholeheartedly, and share positive feedback. Their enthusiasm gives our whole department and our partners a real sense of pride and purpose, knowing we’re working together for their health and well-being.”

The PHN program’s year-round grant activities include:

  • Seniors on the Move: An evening event celebrating kinship, friendship, and wellness among Elders.
  • Educare Good Health and Wellness Days: Monthly “Lunch & Learn” sessions for families with young children.
  • Teen Health Fair: A youth-centered event promoting education and prevention.
  • Backpack Meals for Seniors: Nutritious meal deliveries supporting Elders’ health and independence.
  • Community Poker Walk: A fun, all-ages walking event that combines movement and community connection.
  • Salsa Showdown & Men’s Health Events: Interactive activities promoting healthy eating and engagement.
  • Home Blood Pressure Monitoring Initiative: Providing education and tools for self-care and hypertension management.
  • Heart Health Event: Focused on cardiovascular wellness through screenings and education.

These activities are made possible through collaboration with several WCHS departments, including the Wa i pi nagu (Diabetes) Program, Primary Care Clinic, and Whirling Thunder Wellness Program, as well as partnerships with local schools, childcare centers, and community organizations.

By combining traditional knowledge with modern health practices, the Howaža wōgijire (Public Health Nursing) Program continues to strengthen the health and wellness of the Winnebago community — one relationship, one event, and one heartbeat at a time.