History

Origins and Mission

The Jennie Edmundson Foundation was formed in December 1994 as a dedicated fundraising organization to ensure that the hospital could continue to provide high-quality, patient-centered care. Rooted in a legacy of service, the Foundation was created to bridge the gap between the hospital's operational needs and the community's healthcare aspirations. Its mission is to secure and manage philanthropic support to enhance Methodist Jennie Edmundson Hospital's programs, services, and facilities.

Our history stands as a powerful testament to the extraordinary achievements made possible when a community unites with a common vision and purpose: to uplift the health and well-being of every individual we serve. Since December 1994, this unwavering commitment has been the driving force behind our work, inspiring us to overcome challenges and innovate with compassion. Each step we’ve taken, and every milestone we’ve reached, has been a reflection of our dedication to creating a brighter, healthier future. This legacy not only impacts the lives we touch today, but it also paves the way for generations to come, ensuring that our collective effort continues to inspire hope, change, and progress for a healthier tomorrow.

(Jennie Edmundson Foundation's Donor Recognition Wall)

The Legacy of Ed Lynn

A pivotal figure in Methodist Jennie Edmundson Hospital's history is Ed Lynn, whose dedication to the community and philanthropy left an indelible mark. Ed Lynn served as the President and CEO of Jennie Edmundson Hospital from 1966 to 1996. His visionary leadership spanned three decades, during which he significantly advanced the hospital's mission and services. In 1994, he established the Jennie Edmundson Foundation to ensure the hospital’s future growth and success.

As the original director of the Jennie Edmundson Foundation, Ed Lynn was instrumental in establishing its vision and guiding its early successes. His unwavering support for the hospital culminated in the creation of the Lynn Pavilion. This state-of-the-art facility stands as a testament to his vision and generosity.

The Lynn Pavilion opened in 1995 to provide advanced medical services in a modern, patient-friendly environment. This facility has become a cornerstone of the hospital's offerings, housing critical departments and services that cater to the diverse needs of patients. Lynn’s contributions went beyond financial support; he actively championed initiatives to improve healthcare access and inspire others to invest in the community’s well-being.

 (Ed Lynn and Tara Slevin in November 2024)

Inspiring a New Era of Leadership

In 2004, Tara Slevin became the Director of Volunteer Services & Foundation. Building on the legacy established by Ed Lynn, Tara has continued to build on her predecessors' solid foundation, bringing her passion and vision to the role. With a background in nonprofit management and community engagement, Tara has been instrumental in expanding the Foundation's reach and impact. Under her leadership, the Foundation has launched innovative fundraising initiatives, strengthened partnerships, and further enhanced the hospital’s ability to serve the community. 

Now, as president of the Jennie Edmundson Foundation and chief philanthropy officer at Methodist Jennie Edmundson Hospital, her unwavering commitment to healthcare excellence and her profound connections to the Council Bluffs community have established her as an indispensable leader. Her visionary leadership continues to drive the Foundation's success, inspiring transformative change and ensuring a healthier, brighter future for all those we serve.

Milestones and Achievements

Under Tara’s leadership, the Foundation has been instrumental in:

1. Funding Life-Saving Technology: The Foundation has led several transformative capital campaigns to secure state-of-the-art medical equipment, ensuring that our patients have access to the latest advancements in diagnostics and treatment. Among our most significant achievements are the 2015 renovation of the Cancer Center, which enabled the acquisition of the area’s first and only Linear Accelerator, and the 2024 opening of the Anne Elizabeth Nelson Women and Newborns Center. We have also made crucial upgrades, such as renovating our Behavioral Health unit and outdoor garden, maintaining the Medi-Van program, and our latest campaign to enhance the cardiovascular care we provide by renovating the "cath lab" by adding two new cardiovascular suites. 
2. Supporting Community Health Programs: Through targeted grants, community engagement, and our Caring for Communities initiative, the Foundation supports wellness programs, free health screenings, and educational efforts aimed at addressing critical health disparities. By focusing on underserved populations, we ensure access to vital resources that empower individuals to make informed health choices, prevent illness, and improve overall well-being. These initiatives are designed to break down barriers and create lasting, positive change in communities in need.
3. Expanding Facilities: Generous contributions have enabled significant expansions and renovations that enhance both the quality of care and patient experience. With upgraded surgical suites, advanced imaging technology, and new telemetry equipment, we are able to provide more precise and efficient care. Additionally, we have created comfortable, welcoming spaces for patients and their families, ensuring they feel supported throughout their journey. These improvements, made possible by our donors, continue to have a lasting impact on the care we provide and the lives we touch.
4. Establishing Endowments: The Foundation is privileged to manage several endowments that provide crucial, ongoing support for essential programs that make a profound impact on our community. These endowments ensure the sustainability of programs such as cancer care, which offers patients access to cutting-edge treatments and compassionate support during their most challenging times. Additionally, they fund educational and nursing scholarships, helping to empower the next generation of healthcare professionals and leaders. By managing these endowments, the Foundation is able to create a lasting legacy of care, compassion, and opportunity, ensuring that vital services continue to thrive and benefit those who need them most for years to come.
5. Engaging the Community: Through events like our annual Wheels of Courage Car Show, Spirit of Courage Gala, and other fundraising activities, the Foundation has united individuals, businesses, and organizations in support of our mission. These gatherings not only raise vital funds but also cultivate a sense of compassion and community. Each participant—whether attending, volunteering, or sponsoring—plays a key role in making a lasting impact, helping us provide essential care and resources to those who need them most.

Creating Lasting Change

As we look toward the future, the Jennie Edmundson Foundation stands steadfast in our mission to build a healthier, more compassionate community—one where every individual has the opportunity to thrive. With each step we take, we are guided by a deep sense of purpose, a commitment to fostering meaningful partnerships, embracing innovative solutions, and always responding with empathy to the evolving needs of the patients and families who trust us. Together, we honor a legacy rooted in the unwavering belief that everyone deserves the chance to live a healthy life.

At the heart of our efforts lies our Caring for Our Communities (CFOC) initiative, created in 2014, out of a profound desire to make a difference in the lives of those who need it most. This program connects those at the highest risk—low-income, underserved, and vulnerable individuals—with the support and resources they deserve. It’s a lifeline for many, a beacon of hope when circumstances feel insurmountable.

Through CFOC, we join forces with compassionate community health coaches and nonprofit organizations, addressing the daily challenges people face—lack of safe housing, hunger, and the inability to access reliable transportation. But this program is so much more than just providing resources; it’s about lifting up the human spirit by offering education and guidance to help people regain control of their lives and their health. Every success story is a testament to the power of community, and each life we touch reminds us of the difference we can make when we come together with purpose and compassion.