The OCH team is filled with gratitude this holiday season. We invite you to pause with us for a moment as we reflect on what we are grateful for. Together, OCH and partners across the region have accomplished so much in the past 12 months. We look forward to continuing to foster a thriving Olympic region.
“I’m grateful for the life that I have built for myself this year. This year has been a bit of a rebuilding year for me, and I am grateful to OCH for allowing me the space to rebuild in a culture where work-life balance is important, and people matter. In 2023, I am looking forward to exciting adventures, learning new things, and being open to what comes next.”
– Ayesha Chander, Program Coordinator
“I am immensely grateful that OCH will continue to exist in 2023 and beyond! When this organization started officially back in 2017, the future was unclear. Thanks to state and local partners for seeing the value our little team aims to provide and for the amazing opportunities ahead in supporting healthy people and thriving communities across this special region. In 2023, I am looking forward to building new relationships and staying connected with those who have been a part of this work since the beginning.”
– Celeste Schoenthaler, Executive Director
“I’m grateful for our partners that continue to show up daily and innovate to best meet the needs of the people that live here. I’m thankful for the beautiful region we get to live, work, and play in. I’m grateful for the opportunity to re-connect with partners, old and new, in-person. I’m thankful for our incredibly hard working and supportive team. I’m looking forward to co-creating a regional approach to community-based care coordination that meets the unique needs of the people who live and work here. I’m looking forward to continuing to connect with partners in-person.”
– Miranda Burger, Program Manager
“I am so grateful for such amazing and supportive family and friends. This year brought many ups and downs but at the end of the day the love and kindness from those closest to me and the (best hugs) from my daughter, Rory, helped through it all. Additionally, I am incredibly grateful for caring and helpful co-workers I got to work with this year at OCH and for Celeste, the best executive director. OCH has taught me so much in the years I have been a part of this amazing organization. I am excited to take what I’ve learned and use these practices in my own business in the new year and beyond.”
– Mackenzie Jakola, Program Generalist
“I am grateful for the strong commitment and hard work of our partners and the OCH team to support and strengthen our region’s wellbeing. I look forward to more opportunities for human connection and collaboration as we are truly stronger together.”
– Debra Swanson, Operations Manager
“I’m grateful for the opportunity to serve my community on a variety of levels, from financial support to delivering groceries right to their doors! I’m excited to embark on a year of region wide convenings to bring the region together and build on the momentum of 2022.”
– Ren Mack-Hazelwood, Community Hub Coordinator
“I’m so thankful to work alongside so many incredibly talented people with a passion to strengthen and support the community. The OCH network is truly a powerful force and I feel quite lucky to be a part of this journey to foster a region of healthy people, thriving communities. I look forward to more in-person opportunities in the coming year, getting coffee with partners, driving across our beautiful region, and seeing what comes next!”
– Amy Brandt, Communications Manager
Thank YOU for all you do to support the health of the Olympic region. OCH is lucky to have such incredible partners across the three counties and seven Tribes. We wish you a lovely holiday season and a delightful new year!