History of Sierra Health Foundation
Since 1985, Sierra Health Foundation has promoted improved health and quality of life for the people of Northern California. Although funding began in just the five counties of the Greater Sacramento area, in 1987 we expanded the funding region to include 26 counties in the northeast section of the state, which had few private funding sources.
Early grant programs addressed AIDS, access to prenatal care, children’s oral health and managed care. Community Partnerships for Healthy Children was a 10-year initiative that supported the healthy development of young children in 30 communities from 1994 to 2003.
Currently, we continue to support oral health services for children through the brightSMILES Dental Partnership, and in 2006 we launched the REACH youth program, which supports healthy development of young people for their successful transition to adulthood. In June 2008, we launched the Responsive Grants Program with an initial two-year funding commitment, and in 2009 we opened the Nonprofit Innovation Center on Garden Highway in Sacramento.
Our Health Leadership Program focuses on strengthening nonprofits by training managers to become effective leaders. We also operate the Conference and Convening Program, and support Grizzly Creek Ranch, a camp in Plumas County for children with special needs.