2024 Conference Recap

On November 20, 2024, we came together for an incredible day of connection, learning, and inspiration at the Pennsylvania Charitable Healthcare Coalition’s annual conference, "Strengthening the Safety Net." Held at the Best Western Premier Hotel in Harrisburg, PA, the event was a resounding success, bringing together healthcare leaders, advocates, and volunteers to explore innovative ways to expand access to care for underserved communities. We are deeply grateful to everyone who participated, supported, and contributed to making this event an unforgettable experience!

Meet the Experts: 2024 Conference Speakers

    Chad Barger, CFRE

          Founder of Productive Fundraising, Chad helps nonprofit professionals fundraise more efficiently and effectively. He is a top-rated conference speaker and webinar presenter, as well as a master trainer of boards that “don’t want to fundraise.”
Marisa Barnes, Direct Relief

          With over thirty years of experience in managing and developing systems for various sectors, Marisa is dedicated to enhancing access to healthcare for vulnerable populations. Her work focuses on connecting medication access to improved health outcomes.
Kelly Braun, RDH, MSDH

          Serving as the Rural Primary Care and Integration Coordinator at the Pennsylvania Office on Rural Health, Kelly leads technical assistance activities for Rural Health Clinics in Pennsylvania, focusing on care integration with an emphasis on oral health.
Phil Falvo, Public Policy Director, United Way of PA

          An experienced public policy professional with over eleven years in state government, Phil has worked on a variety of policy areas, primarily focusing on health, human services, and insurance.
Amanda Taylor Gehman

          As a Program Manager with the PA Area Health Education Center, Amanda coordinates the PA Training Center for Health Equity and Community Health Worker Training Program, managing programs and grant activities related to Community Health Worker training and support.
Ariana Gordillo De Vivero

          The Senior Director of Strategic Initiatives at the National Association of Free & Charitable Clinics, Ariana manages partner relationships, oversees grant programs, mobilizes volunteers, and provides leadership in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion efforts.

    Helen Hawkey

          Executive Director for the PA Coalition for Oral Health, Helen has worked as a research coordinator and dental educator, focusing on oral health initiatives across Pennsylvania.
Mary Herbert, MPH, MS

          Practice Manager and Clinical Director for the Program for Health Care to Underserved Populations, Mary oversees day-to-day operations of the program’s two community-embedded free clinics.
Matthew Hess, Senior Director of Operations, Global Wordsmiths

          With a background in financial services and nonprofit work, Matt oversees operations at Global Wordsmiths, focusing on delivering efficient, cost-effective language access solutions for various clients.
Cat Hulburt, Senior Director, US Programs, Americares

          Cat drives strategic growth and program development in the US for Americares, focusing on health equity, mental health, and health system strengthening.
Stephen Kurtz

          Prior to joining WellSpan, Erin worked 17 years at the PA House of Representatives, focusing on long-term care and services for individuals with disabilities.
Susan Veldheer, DEd, RD

          A prevention researcher and registered dietitian, Dr. Veldheer leads the Penn State Food as Medicine initiative, developing and testing culturally relevant interventions to reduce the burden of diet-related chronic disease.