The People Who Make Ellsworth Possible

A Labor Day note

This Labor Day, I find myself thinking about the people behind every healthcare encounter—the work that happens before a clinician ever walks through the door, and the care that follows once they do.

At Ellsworth, that work is personal. It connects us to Our Relatives, to our tribal communities, and to the belief that everyone deserves access to dedicated, compassionate healthcare.

For years, my work in communications for nonprofits here in Washington, DC, gave me a way to advocate for our communities. I remain proud of that work. Ellsworth has given me another, deeply tangible way to contribute: helping bring healthcare professionals into communities where their presence can make a difference.

What stays with me is hearing about the care taking place. An elder receiving the attention they deserve. A parent finding support. A child being cared for. An expectant mother receiving prenatal care, and a baby getting a healthy start. Each encounter is personal to someone—a Relative whose health matters deeply to a family and a community.

To the clinicians on the ground: thank you. You bring your knowledge, dedication, and humanity to this work every day. Your commitment to improving lives and expanding healthcare access is what gives our mission meaning.

I am also grateful for our recruiters, whose work makes those connections possible. We have a team I am proud of, and this holiday, I am especially mindful of one recruiter who has been going above and beyond. That extra effort matters. It reminds me how much a person’s commitment can mean to an entire organization—and, ultimately, to the people we serve.

Together, our recruiters and clinicians make Ellsworth whole. One helps open the door; the other steps through it to provide care. Both are essential.

There is much to be thankful for this Labor Day. For me, the greatest source of pride is knowing that Ellsworth offers a meaningful way to serve Indian Country, alongside people who care deeply about the work and the relatives at the heart of it.

To everyone who makes Ellsworth possible: thank you. I am grateful for your effort, proud of what we are building together, and happy to be part of it with you.

With gratitude,

Michael Woestehoff