Desert Healthcare District & Foundation will launch new 5-year strategic plan on July 1
The Desert Healthcare District & Foundation will begin implementing its new strategic plan on July 1, marking a significant step forward in its mission to improve health and wellness for all Coachella Valley residents.
The five-year plan was approved unanimously by the Board of Directors on May 26, following a 10-month planning process led by highly regarded consulting firm Sowen and informed by extensive community engagement.
More than 200 residents participated in the planning process through seven community listening sessions held across the District’s geographic zones (one per Board Director), a virtual community forum, and an online survey. Together, residents shared their health and wellness priorities, concerns, and hopes for the future of healthcare in the Coachella Valley.
The strategic plan provides a roadmap for advancing system-wide improvements in how health and wellness services are delivered throughout desert communities.
“This strategic plan represents an exciting opportunity to chart a new path forward for the Desert Healthcare District & Foundation and the communities we serve,” said Kimberly Barraza, president of the Board of Directors. “The plan will guide the Board’s decision-making as we work to ensure all Coachella Valley residents have access to the health and wellness programs, services, and resources they need to thrive. It positions us to strengthen partnerships, address critical challenges, and create lasting improvements that benefit current and future generations.”
The new strategic plan expands the organization’s role as a health system amplifier. While continuing its long-standing commitment to grantmaking, the District & Foundation will increasingly serve as a convener, catalyst, and leader on critical health and wellness issues. An essential component of the expanded District & Foundation role is to bring together residents, healthcare providers, nonprofit organizations, community leaders, educational institutions, government agencies, and other stakeholders to identify solutions and drive meaningful change.
The plan is organized around four strategic pillars:
- Workforce Development – Strengthening the pipeline of healthcare professionals and support workers needed to meet growing community needs.
- Awareness and Access – Increasing understanding of available services and reducing barriers to care.
- Engagement – Building stronger connections with residents and community partners to ensure diverse voices help shape solutions.
- Data-Driven – Using reliable data, research, and measurable outcomes to guide investments and decision-making.
Implementation of the strategic plan will occur in phases and will include organizational restructuring, the addition of staff as needed, development of new partnerships, and alignment of resources with strategic priorities.
To support this transition, the District & Foundation has temporarily paused its grants program. Grantmaking is expected to resume in early 2027 under a framework aligned with the new strategic plan.
“The challenges facing our region require collaboration, innovation, and a shared commitment to improving health and wellness,” said Donna Craig, Chief Program Officer and Interim CEO. “This plan provides the tools and direction needed to help create a healthier future for everyone who calls the Coachella Valley home.”
Residents are encouraged to review the complete strategic plan and supporting materials at dhcd.org. Available resources include the full plan, community engagement report, and answers to frequently asked questions (FAQs) designed to help residents better understand the organization’s transformation and future direction. Read the FAQs: English, Español.
Questions about the plan may also be submitted by email to info@dhcd.org.
Media Contact: Will Dean, director of communications and marketing, Desert Healthcare District & Foundation, at wdean@dhcd.org.
About the Desert Healthcare District & Foundation
The Desert Healthcare District is a local government agency formed in 1948. Its mission is to improve health access and outcomes for all District residents through strategic funding and partnership-building to advance resilient communities. The District includes more than 400,000 residents and encompasses the entire Coachella Valley. The District and Desert Healthcare Foundation, together, are one of the largest funders in the valley. These funds are used to assist residents — especially the underserved — in accessing vitally needed resources, such as primary and behavioral healthcare.