Going Above and Beyond for Community Health

Michigan Primary Care Association Awards three Family Health Care Employees

BALDWIN– The passion for improving the health of rural communities is a commitment by all those who work for Family Health Care (FHC). Recently, the Michigan Primary Care Association awarded the 2018 Distinguished Service Award to Bonnie Mapes, Chief Operating Officer, Chris Hicks, Chief Business Optimization Officer, and Bruce Whitney, Board Member.

Bonnie Mapes has been with FHC for over 13 years starting with many challenging tasks including the acquisition of a long-standing private practice. Bonnie helped those staff struggling in their “new organization” by bringing them together to see the bigger picture of how a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) supports its community.  She developed a culture of “family” and made staff an essential part of what the growing organization was all about. Bonnie has worked hard to integrate the many departments and programs throughout the organization. She has been successful in bringing Optometry Services to White Cloud, various schools throughout Northern Michigan and most recently in Baldwin. Bonnie is a true team player.

"Bonnie often takes on the most challenging projects and provides a finished product with results that will benefit BFHC,” said Kathy Sather, President & CEO.

Chris Hicks has been at FHC for over six years. Digging deep into FHC’s data system, Chris provides a wealth of information for clinicians and administrators. This information has helped FHC become successful in grant opportunities, assisted in strategies that resulted in being recognized as a Quality Leader and has placed FHC as an active member of collaborative programs with area hospitals and large systems of care.  Chris has been promoted three times during his tenure with the organization and has committed his time to the mission and vision of BFHC. He does whatever he can for the betterment of the organization’s needs; even if that means long and in-depth research for requested reports.

“Chris doesn’t call it good enough until he has accomplished his goal,” said Kathy. “He is committed to the goals of the organization and always encourages his team to strive for their best.”

Bruce Whitney's passion for the mission of FHC is apparent in his dedication to his role as a board member and an active community member. Bruce, also known as Pastor Whitney, leads the Baldwin Congregational Church. The daily struggles, those who are ill, aged and on limited incomes have a friend forever in him. Bruce is a fierce advocate legislatively and has the stories to support what families’ experience, and how vital FQHC’s are in providing the necessary resources for the small northern Michigan town that struggles to combat poverty. He is actively engaged in changing the trajectory for area families.

“His heart for representing the community, their needs and active defender of the work at the health center is the typical characteristic you will hear with a few minutes spent talking to him,” said Kathy. “Bruce practices what he preaches, not only actively engaged as a community member but also a patient of Family Health Care.”