The Rural Wisconsin Health Cooperative (RWHC) recently bestowed their 2010 Rural Health Ambassador Award to Chris DeLapp, Columbus Community Hospital Education Coordinator.

The award recognizes health care employees at RWHC hospitals who have gone above the call of duty in promoting their respective organizations, while making significant contributions to rural health. Eleven individuals from across the state received awards this year. Each recipient demonstrates a history of fostering positive communication and relations within the hospital's respective service area by: serving on community boards/service organizations; taking advantage of volunteer or public speaking opportunities; and supporting community health activities beyond the scope of the hospital.

In addition to serving as the CCH Education Coordinator, DeLapp assists CCH in promoting health and wellness by participating in a variety of health fairs and community events including the Dodge County Senior Expo, the Club Scrub Program at CCH, speaking at the Sun Prairie, Marshall, and Waterloo libraries, presenting at the Columbus Rotary Club, speaking at the Rio Elementary School D.A.R.E. graduation, and organizing the Red Cross Blood Drive Mobile Donor Unit day for CCH employees. In addition, DeLapp is the host of the hospital’s radio program, “Well Into The Future,” which airs on WBEV twice a month.

DeLapp, a CCH employee for the past seven years, is a member of the Columbus Connects Coalition and a CCH representative for the Community Learning Services Annual Education.

“Chris is extremely energetic and exudes a positive attitude and passion for rural health which is evidenced by his commitment and dedication to CCH staff, med staff, patients and the communities we serve,” said Ann Roundy, CCH Vice President of Employee Services.

Incorporated in 1979, RWHC receives national recognition as one of the country's earliest and most successful models for networking among rural hospitals. RWHC serves as a catalyst for regional collaboration and as an aggres­sive, creative force on behalf of rural communi­ties and rural health. Owned and operated by 35 acute, medical-surgical hospitals, RWHC offers its members a wide range of shared services that meet local community health needs, including: staffing, consulting, management, networking and education. Columbus Community Hospital is an active member of RWHC; their employees support the shared mission of “strengthening and sustaining rural health”.