CEO Update: November 6, 2026

Addressing Transportation Challenges in Our Rural Communities

We continue to look for ways to improve access to reliable and sustainable transportation throughout our rural communities. This week, we met with representatives from the New York State Overdose Intervention Initiative, a program through the NYS Unified Court System, along with local community partners, to discuss transportation challenges and available resources.

In rural communities like ours, the lack of transportation can mean missed medical appointments, delayed treatment, lost employment opportunities, and individuals going without the services they need. For someone seeking treatment or recovery support, not having a ride can be the difference between getting help and going without. 

I know transportation is not a new challenge, but it is one we cannot afford to ignore. Our hope is to continue bringing organizations together to identify practical, sustainable solutions that make a real difference in the lives of those we serve.

Working Together to Strengthen Rural Healthcare

Over the past few months, I've had the opportunity to meet with a number of healthcare providers, community organizations, and local leaders to discuss the future of healthcare in our area. One thing I continue to see is that there is a lot of good work being done throughout our region, but we also know there are gaps in services that need to be addressed. I believe there are opportunities to better coordinate what is already available, strengthen our partnerships, and work together to meet the needs of our communities

As we move forward with the Rural Health

Integration Planning Grant, my hope is

that we can identify where the gaps are,

build on what's already working, and

find ways to better serve the people in

our communities. I've said it many times,

no one organization can do it all. But when

we bring the right people together who

are willing to work toward a common

goal, I believe we can make a real difference.