Seneca Healthcare District to Seneca Healthcare Foundation

Chester, CA – September 20, 2024 – Seneca Healthcare District (SHD) is excited to announce the launch of the Seneca Healthcare Foundation (SHF), a dedicated non-profit created to support the goals and mission of the District.  

“Launching the foundation is a significant milestone for our hospital and our community,” said Seneca CEO Shawn McKenzie, “With the support of the foundation, we are confident that we can create a healthcare facility that not only meets, but exceeds the needs of our residents for generations to come.” 

The foundation will operate with a 5-member board. The newly elected board members were appointed on April 12th, 2024, and include Shawn McKenzie, Steve Boline, Traci Holt, Tracey Smith and Chelssa Outland.  

Shawn McKenzie is the current CEO of Seneca Healthcare District and President of the Seneca Healthcare Foundation. Shawn is known as an inspirational, dynamic and accomplished professional with a passion for progressive contributions in hospital and clinical/business operations. A dedicated healthcare professional, he brings a unique blend of executive consulting and operational experience in multiple diverse healthcare environments. 

Steve Boline, Treasurer for SHF serves as the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) at SHD, a role that’s crucial for keeping the financial gears turning smoothly. As CFO, Steve oversees budgeting, financial planning, and fiscal management—ensuring that the hospital’s financial health remains robust. 

Traci Holt, Assistant Treasurer/Secretary, is a visionary leader with over twenty years of dedicated service in workforce development. She brings a wealth of experience encompassing operations, finance, strategic planning, human resources, public relations, policy development, and organizational management. Her strategic foresight and ability to navigate complex information have consistently driven innovative solutions that address evolving workforce challenges. 

Tracey Smith, Secretary of SHF, recently retired, boasts an impressive 30-year tenure as VP Business Advisor and Branch Manager at Plumas Bank. Holding a Bachelor’s degree in Business from Chico State, Tracey dedicated her career to empowering clients to achieve their financial aspirations. A pillar of her community for three decades, she is deeply invested in the growth and prosperity of the local rural area.  

Chelssa Outland is the current Director of Marketing and Public Relations at SHD and the Executive Director of the Seneca Healthcare Foundation. Her role involves fundraising, marketing, communications, and planning for the new hospital build. She is an avid volunteer in the Lake Almanor Community, where she has volunteered with the Lake Almanor Area Chamber and many other organizations over the past decade. 

The Seneca Healthcare Foundation’s inaugural campaign is to fundraise for the new modern, state-of-the-art hospital that will meet the evolving needs of our community.  “Seneca Healthcare Foundation thanks The Almanor Foundation for its support in the early stages of fundraising efforts through 2022 for the hospital rebuild,” said Shawn McKenzie, president of the board for SHF.  

The Seneca Healthcare Foundation is committed to transparency and community engagement, ensuring that all funds raised are used effectively to benefit the hospital and its patients. “We encourage the community to join us in this significant effort,” said Chelssa Outland, Executive Director of the SHF. “Together, we can make a meaningful impact on the health and well-being of our community.” For more information about the SHF and how you can support its mission please visit https://senecahealthcarefoundation.org or contact the foundation office at 1(833)227-3743 ext 1600.   

About Seneca Healthcare District: SHD’s mission is to provide community members and visitors with outstanding health care services and quality care through dedicated and compassionate staff, providers, and innovative technology. Our commitment to the communities around us, including the disadvantaged and vulnerable, is to create an atmosphere promoting wellness and healing. 

About Seneca Healthcare Foundation: The formation of the Seneca Healthcare Foundation will ensure that the Lake Almanor Basin continues to receive healthcare services for years to come. The foundation’s efforts will focus on enhancing the hospital’s infrastructure, expanding medical services, and ensuring the sustainability of healthcare in the region. 501c3 status for the foundation is currently pending.