About Us
The Foundation
The Foundation is the official 501(c)(3) organization supporting The West Hawaii Region of Hawaii Health Systems Corporation.
Hawaii Health Systems Corporation serves as the “Safety Net” for Neighbor Island Acute Care in the State of Hawaii. Our facilities provide services to all, regardless of whether an individual has health insurance or the ability to pay.
Within the West Hawaii Region, HHSC operates two key facilities: Kona Community and Kohala Hospitals.
Kona Community Hospital "KCH" is a Level III trauma, 94-bed full-service acute care hospital with 24-hour emergency services, proudly serving the West Hawaii community and has undergone several iterations of hospital facilities at the current site in Kealakekua (South Kona) since 1914. KCH’s most recent facility was constructed in 1974; the hospital is currently initiating significant capital improvement projects to bring up to date, safeguard, and expand upon services for the region.
Kohala Hospital, a Critical Access Hospital located in the rural town of Kapaau (North Kohala), opened its doors to patients on April 1, 1917. It complements KCH by providing emergency services and long-term care to the Kohala area, enhancing the region's healthcare resilience. Given the rural and isolated nature of the island, these two facilities are interdependent, often relying on each other for resources and support to ensure comprehensive care for the region’s residents.
Launched in 2024, the West Hawaii Region Hospital Foundation supports the mission and priorities of both storied hospitals, which have served as a cornerstone of healthcare delivery in West Hawaii for over 100 years. As the region continues to serve a growing and diverse population, the Foundation was formed to expand access to philanthropic and grant funding, enabling the hospital to meet the evolving health needs of the West Hawaii community.
The Foundation’s sole mission is to advance public health by supporting programs, operations, and capital projects at West Hawaii Region that align with the hospital’s long-standing commitment to high-quality, patient-centered care. While the Foundation is a newly formed entity, it draws on the deep expertise and leadership of the region's senior management and governing board to ensure strategic alignment, operational integrity, and community trust.
Our Board
President- Amy Feeley Austin
Vice President &Treasurer- Dawnell Buell
Secretary- Jane Clement
Clayton McGhan
Eugene Amar
Daniel Rick
Dr. Sarah Hathaway
Your Place
At West Hawaii Region, we strive to create a place of belonging,
where everyone is seen, heard and deeply known.
We get to be present for your most beautiful moments,
and stand alongside you in the hard times.
Our hospitals have served West Hawaii for over 100 years,
offering care to Ohana for generations.
We are YOUR place.
Our Story
Our Community
Our Strategic Goals
Our Strategic Goals
At West Hawaii Region Hospital Foundation, we strive to make a difference in the lives of every patient, every day.
Our 2024 Community Needs Assessment helped us learn more about gaps in healthcare services on Hawaii Island.
We know our growing community needs more.
With your support, we can make that happen.
Full report can be found here: KCH Final Write Up Outline v.7.docx
Our Strategic Goals
Our Strategic Goals
Our Strategic Goals
Now more than ever, the community needs our hospitals to ensure safe, accessible care remains available close to home.
Our Goals:
To be a highly engaged, collaborative partner working with its community to transform our healthcare ecosystem.
To increase our capacity to deliver safe, effective, person-centered care.
Our Impact
Our Strategic Goals
Our Impact
WHR is the care provider for over 70,000 Hawaii Island residents. And our population is growing!
Discover the difference we are making in our community.
With your help, West Hawaii Region Hospital Foundation will provide essential services and support to those who need it most.