Kansas Health Foundation marks 25 years

The work of the Kansas Health Foundation can be seen all over Douglas County as the philanthropy celebrates its 25th anniversary.

KHF reported that it has given approximately $440 million in grants to communities, projects and organizations statewide. That includes $56.4 million to Kansas University, the KU School of Medicine, KU Endowment and Douglas County area.

For example, with the backing of a $374,000 grant from KHF, the Institute for Education Research and Public Service at KU was able to draw down $114 million in new private and federal funding dollars to Kansas organizations.

As part of the organization’s 25th anniversary, former U.S. Surgeon General Richard Carmona will speak at noon Wednesday at the Wichita Marriott Ballroom.

KHF started in 1985 with proceeds from the sale of Wichita’s nonprofit Wesley Medical Center to HCA. The philanthropy is dedicated to improving the health of all Kansans.