News

Due to the rural nature of the area and the lack of accessible public transportation, residents of Deer River face significant isolation and accessibility challenges. These barriers impact not only essential medical visits and necessary errands but also opportunities for community engagement and activities that enhance quality of life. For residents requiring mobility assistance, such as walkers or wheelchairs, these challenges are further compounded. Existing transportation options are often limited or fully utilized, making the need for sustainable solutions urgent. Forward Health Foundation has been selected as one of only four organizations in the United States (and Guam) to receive

Forward Health Foundation and United Way of 1,000 Lakes form new partnership to address dental access in our region If you have attempted to make a dental appointment, seek a new provider, or establish a dental home within the last few years, you likely have experienced the dental access crisis firsthand. Every day, especially in rural parts of the state, households face difficulties finding a dental provider with openings, transportation to and from appointments, and navigating insurance and medical assistance programs. A 2021 Community Needs Assessment, conducted by United Way of 1000 Lakes, underscored access to dental care among the

This spring, we were able to partner with six more resort owners to install AED’s on their properties for use by visitors, employees, and residents alike. Due to the generosity of our donors and community partners, we were able to provide grants to resort owners toward the purchase of AED’s along with the ability to negotiate discounts prices. Resort owners who participated in wilderness first aid, CPR and AED training became eligible for these grants allowing them the ability to more affordably equip their properties with these lifesaving devices while installing them in locations available to the public and our

This spring we were able to provide funding to help equip a sensory room for student use at King Elementary.  According to Kristy Glines, DCD Special Education Teacher, "The sensory room would provide a safe and welcoming space for the students at King School [who] need to de-escalate, require sensory input due to their unique needs, or need quiet space as a part of their daily routine." She goes on the explain that this room, "would provide a safe, nurturing, and supportive space for those children needing time and resources to regulate their emotions, which result in them being able

Sheila Rae Maki has served dual roles between Essentia Health and the Foundation with passion and a get-after-it attitude stretching through all she has done, and continues to do. This year marked her 45th(+) year at Essentia Health, and 12th year with Forward Health Foundation! Starting as a candy-striper in the hospital at age 15,  then evolving through many, many roles she has made an immeasurable impact on both organizations, in her community, and in the lives of the hundreds she has touched. Sheila retired from both roles on May 15 and we will miss her regular presence dearly, but