Funding Recipient Spotlight: Health Connect of South Dakota

Posted in: Blog

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We want to highlight the amazing work being done in our region by regularly featuring funded projects in our nine states. This week, we are featuring the Health Connect of South Dakota project led by Executive Director Fran Rice.

Health Connect, a consumer health library and health and safety information clearinghouse, sought to expand their educational offerings to the Sioux Empire metropolitan area. Despite some unusually turbulent weather throughout the grant period, Fran and her team were able to pull together to present MedlinePlus lecturettes; purchase a library automation system to make accessing health resources easier for individuals and organizations; and showcase medical librarianship at public libraries and statewide student and professional organizations. To get the word out, promotion was conducted via local media outlets, including TV, radio and print.

In total, Health Connect of South Dakota’s project was able to reach over over 162 organizations or unique individuals. Fran said, “We are always working in a collaborative mode to better our state and the Sioux Empire community area.” She goes on to say, “Capturing the eyes of those working on the next steps in their lives was promising for a profession that is…being challenged.” Moving forward, Health Connect of South Dakota plans to continue presenting about MedlinePlus and medical librarianship to groups who indicated interest.

Interested in  to obtain funding to create or expand your outreach programming or technology resources? We are currently accepting applications for Year 4. The deadline to apply is November 10, 2023 at 5:00 p.m. MT. Reach out to your state’s point of contact with any questions you may have.

• Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico – Dana Abbey
• Idaho, Montana, Utah – George Strawley
• North Dakota, South Dakota, Wyoming – David Brown

Planning on submitting an application? Reach out to John Bramble to assist you with a budget review.