Press Releases Archive Sunflower Foundation Announces New Funding Opportunities April 21, 2009 Complete details on these RFPs and application documents can be found on the foundation’s Web site, www.sunflowerfoundation.org, or are available by calling the foundation at 785-232-3000 (local) or 866-232-3020 (toll free). Potential applicants are encouraged to participate in one of the RFP briefings to be held by telephone conference calls April 24, 28, 29 and 30, 2009. These briefings will be specific to each RFP. Information regarding the conference call schedule and instructions for participating are available in the documents posted on the foundation’s Web site. The foundation welcomes questions about the application process or guidelines. The Sunflower Foundation was created in 2000. The mission of the foundation is to serve as a catalyst for improving the health of Kansans, which it supports through a program of grants, awards and related activities. Health Affairs editor brings national perspective to Kansas March 11, 2009 TOPEKA – Susan Dentzer, editor-in-chief of Health Affairs, the nation’s leading journal of health policy, and an on-air analyst on health issues with The NewsHour with Jim Lehrer on the Public Broadcasting Service (PBS), is the next speaker in a new series sponsored by Sunflower Foundation: Health Care for Kansans. Dentzer will speak at 3:30 p.m. Wednesday, March 18, 2009, at the Capitol Plaza Hotel in Topeka. The speech and reception that follows are open to the public, but reservations are required by calling 785-232-3000. Dentzer became editor of the peer-reviewed journal Health Affairs in May 2008 after a decade as the on-air health correspondent for The NewsHour. The journal is published by Project HOPE, an organization providing health education and humanitarian assistance worldwide. “We feel very fortunate to have Susan Dentzer join us for our series,” said Billie Hall, president and CEO for the Sunflower Foundation. “Her background in national and international health issues, as well as her front-row seat on health care reform in our country, will make this a timely and insightful presentation – one that will be incredibly useful for the advocacy work being done in Kansas.” Dentzer is the third of four nationally known speakers the Sunflower Foundation is bringing to Kansas to highlight the importance of effectively communicating and advocating for health issues in the state. The first was acclaimed author and activist, David Cohen, a former leader of the Advocacy Institute and Common Cause. The second was public policy expert Ann Wiesner, a principal with Grassroots Solutions, a Minnesota-based firm specializing in helping non-profit organizations achieve their public policy objectives. Dentzer is an award-winning journalist who has been recognized nationally for her work on Alzheimer’s disease, women’s health issues and nursing home reform. In 2005 she won an Excellence in Health Care Journalism award from the Association of Health Care Journalists for “Wounded Soldier” and “Wounded Warrior,” stories about a paralyzed and brain damaged soldier who was severely wounded in Iraq. Prior to joining The NewsHour in 1998, Dentzer was chief economics correspondent and economics columnist for U.S. News and World Report and senior writer covering business news for Newsweek. A graduate of Dartmouth, Dentzer now lives in the Washington, D.C., area. The Sunflower Foundation is a charitable organization with a mission to serve as a catalyst for improving the health of Kansans. The foundation’s funding priorities are health care access, healthy behaviors and prevention, capacity building and advocacy. More information can be found at www.sunflowerfoundation.org. Grassroots strategist brings expertise to Kansas December 22, 2008 TOPEKA – A public policy expert who believes non-profit organizations can be more effective in designing, organizing and implementing grassroots strategies is the next speaker in a new series sponsored by Sunflower Foundation: Health Care for Kansans. Ann Wiesner is a principal with Grassroots Solutions, a Minnesota-based firm specializing in helping non-profit organizations achieve their public policy objectives. She will conduct a workshop-like presentation for the public at 3:30 p.m. Wednesday, January 7, 2009, at the Capitol Plaza Hotel in Topeka. “At this critical time, with the economic challenges facing businesses and our government, it is imperative non-profit leaders are equipped with the expertise they need to advocate for those they serve,” said Billie Hall, President and CEO for the foundation. “Ann brings a depth of knowledge and enthusiasm to her work that will give people interested in engaging in the public policy debate the tools they need to be successful,” Hall said. Wiesner is the second of four nationally known speakers the Sunflower Foundation is bringing to Kansas to highlight the importance of effectively communicating and advocating for health issues in the state. The first was acclaimed author and activist David Cohen, a former leader of the Advocacy Institute and Common Cause. All speeches and the receptions that follow are free and open to the public. Advance reservations are required by calling 785-232-3000. Wiesner will provide first-hand accounts about how non-profits can develop grassroots campaigns that effectively contribute to changes in public policy. Her clients include groups working on issues ranging from tobacco control to anti-poverty policy, and include organizations such as the Lance Armstrong Foundation, North Carolina Justice Center and Illinois Community Action Associations. “This is an opportunity to hear from an outstanding presenter,” Hall said. “She brings a very down-to-earth approach to public policy, which sometimes can seem out-of-reach to those most affected by policy decisions.” The Sunflower Foundation is a charitable organization with a mission to serve as a catalyst for improving the health of Kansans. With nearly $100 million in assets, the foundation’s funding priorities are health care access, healthy behaviors and prevention, capacity building and advocacy. More information can be found at www.sunflowerfoundation.org. Sunflower Foundation taps nonprofit leaders for new advocacy initiative November 22, 2008 TOPEKA – A new program launched by the Sunflower Foundation: Health Care for Kansans provides 15 nonprofit leaders from across the state an opportunity to learn how to become effective public policy advocates for their organizations and the people they serve. The first Sunflower Foundation Advocacy Fellowship class of 2008 – 2009 is part of the foundation’s new non-partisan advocacy initiative, which is designed to provide education and training opportunities for nonprofit leaders. The goal is to bring the perspective of the nonprofit world to public policy. “This is a critically underserved area for nonprofits,” said Billie Hall, President and CEO of the Sunflower Foundation, which surveyed nonprofit leaders prior to launching the advocacy initiative. “The fellowship program provides nonprofit leaders the opportunity and skills to become powerful voices for the Kansans they serve.” The fellowship program includes six sessions over the course of a year, including one visit to Washington, D.C. Topics include how to develop advocacy strategies, build coalitions and grassroots efforts, navigate the political process and work with the media. “We believe bringing the nonprofit perspective to policy discussions not only benefits the individuals and their organizations, but is important if we are going to find solutions to today’s complex health problems,” Hall said. Leaders selected for the first fellowship class are (click here for photos and bios of the Fellows): EMPORIA - The Sunflower Foundation is a charitable organization with a mission to serve as a catalyst for improving the health of Kansans. With nearly $100 million in assets, the foundation’s funding priorities are health care access, healthy behaviors and prevention, capacity building and advocacy. More information is available at www.sunflowerfoundation.org. National activist and advocacy expert to kick off Speaker Series November 11, 2008 TOPEKA – Nationally recognized activist, author and advocacy expert David Cohen will launch a new speaker series sponsored by Sunflower Foundation: Health Care for Kansans. Cohen, who has led two of the nation’s most progressive advocacy groups – the Advocacy Institute and Common Cause, is expected to draw on his decades of experience working as an advocate and strategist on major social justice and political reform issues, from civil rights to anti-poverty work. The speaker series, Advocacy in Health, is part of the Sunflower Foundation’s advocacy initiative, which is designed to provide education and training opportunities for nonprofit leaders who want to become involved in advocacy and public policy. “We are thrilled to have David Cohen bring his experience to Kansas,” said Billie Hall, President and CEO of the foundation. “He delivers an incredibly inspirational message that will have us all motivated to get involved in the public policy process –whether in our hometowns, the state or at a national level.” Cohen will speak at 3:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 19 at the Capitol Plaza Hotel in Topeka. A reception to meet the speaker will follow. Cohen is the first of four nationally known speakers who will come to Kansas in the next few months to highlight the importance of nonprofits getting involved in public policy, advocating on behalf of the people they serve and contributing to common solutions. The other speakers are: SUSAN DENTZER – Health correspondent, ANDY GOODMAN – Public interest communication specialist “Our goal with the speakers’ series is to introduce ideas that can spark change in the policy arena,” Hall said. “We want to encourage and strengthen the involvement of the nonprofit sector when it comes to advocacy and public policy engagement, and this provides an opportunity to learn from the best.” read more > Kansas small businesses say health care costs a priority and rank policy options October 29, 2008 TOPEKA – A new survey of small business owners shows rising health care costs are among their top concerns. In Kansas business owners favor policy options that make it easier for small businesses and employees to purchase health care coverage but stop short of supporting an employer mandate – indicating it would hurt small business. The state survey of more than 200 small business owners was funded by the Sunflower Foundation: Health Care for Kansans, and is a part of a national survey commissioned by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. While the national survey results will not be released for several weeks, Sunflower released the Kansas results this week in conjunction with “Insuring a Healthy Kansas” conference sponsored on October 30 by the Institute for Policy and Social Research at the University of Kansas. The conference is being simulcast from the Kansas Union at KU, Pioneer Communications in Ulysses and The Entrepreneurial Center in Phillipsburg. “We wanted to provide statewide data that could help inform this discussion about what is next,” Hall said. “The findings show that small business owners are looking at a collaborative approach to finding a solution. The conference brings together some of the leading experts in our state and we wanted the perspective of small business to be represented.” Overall, the survey found that:
In Kansas, according to the survey, small business owners supported the following (See Chart 1):
However, a majority of respondents said an employer mandate would hurt their small business. (See Chart 2) When asked about specific approaches to controlling rising health care costs and increasing the number of Americans with health coverage, Kansas small businesses are open to several approaches, with as many as half supporting a government-guaranteed option. (See Charts 3, 4 and 5) “This tells us that small business owners are considering a broader set of policy options,” Hall said. “They favor a market-based approach, but are open to other options including government sponsored-pools and tax credits.” “This is the kind of data we find invaluable,” said Sandy Praeger, Kansas Insurance Commissioner and President, National Association of Insurance Commissioners. “It reinforces what we hear from small businesses and their employees almost every day – that the cost of employer-sponsored health insurance is hurting their ability to stay profitable and competitive.” “Small business owners know first-hand what we’re discussing at this week’s conference – that this is an economic issue,” said Marcia Nielsen, Executive Director of the Kansas Health Policy Authority. “We look forward to working with small business owners and other employers to find solutions that will help them and their employees in the future.” The Sunflower Foundation is a charitable organization with a mission to serve as a catalyst for improving the health of Kansans. With approximately $100 million in assets, the foundation’s funding priorities are health care access, healthy behaviors and prevention, capacity building and advocacy.
Tobacco Poll Shows Kansans Favor Smoke-free Ordinances June 28, 2007 TOPEKA - A statewide public opinion poll of Kansas voters indicates a strong majority favor laws prohibiting smoking in all indoor workplaces and public facilities. Additional findings show a great concern about secondhand smoke and support for an increased cigarette tax. The poll was commissioned by the Sunflower Foundation: Health Care for Kansans, a Topeka-based philanthropy. It was conducted earlier this year by Public Opinion Strategies, a national survey firm, and covered a variety of tobacco-related issues. In addition to 500 Kansas voters, the survey over-sampled Republican primary voters. The margin of error for Kansas voters was +/- 4.4 percent, and among Republican voters was +/- 4.9 percent. Among the three primary findings: 1) Clean indoor air Kansas voters overwhelmingly favor a statewide law prohibiting smoking in all indoor workplaces and public facilities. 2) Secondhand smoke Kansas voters overwhelmingly believe secondhand cigarette smoke is a health hazard. 3) Spending programs Support is strong for increasing the current 79-cent tax on a pack of cigarettes. “Our intent with this poll was two-fold,” said Billie Hall, President and CEO of the Sunflower Foundation. “First, we wanted to inform our own work, which includes a focus on tobacco use prevention, and, second, we wanted to help policymakers understand how tobacco-related issues are perceived in Kansas.” Tobacco use is the leading preventable cause of death in the United States and Kansas, according to health experts. The Sunflower Foundation wants to use information from the statewide poll to inform decision making in the state, Hall emphasized. “We hope we can continue the dialogue about tobacco and its health consequences – with the long-term goal of finding solutions that protect the health of all Kansans,” Hall said. Sunflower Foundation Appointments Announced April 11, 2007 Sunflower Foundation Announces New Funding Opportunity October 6, 2006 Topeka: The Topeka-based Sunflower Foundation: Health Care for Kansans has announced a statewide grant opportunity through the organization’s semi-annual request for proposals (RFP). This funding opportunity, called RFP 07-102, calls for programs and projects that address issues specified in four funding categories within the foundation’s interest areas. The funding categories are Bridge Grants, Capacity Building, Physical Activity and Walking Trails. Complete details on this RFP and application documents can be found on the foundation’s Web site, www.sunflowerfoundation.org, or are available by calling the foundation at 785-232-3000 (local) or 866-232-3020 (toll free), or by e-mail request to info@sunflowerfoundation.org. The submission steps and deadlines involved in applying to this grant opportunity are determined by the funding category under which application is made. Potential applicants are encouraged to participate in one of several RFP briefings to be held by telephone conference calls October 16, 18 and 24, 2006. These briefings will be specific to the RFP funding categories. Information regarding the conference call schedule and instructions for participating are available in the RFP General Information document posted on the foundation’s Web site. The Sunflower Foundation was created in 2000. The mission of the foundation is to serve as a catalyst for improving the health of Kansans, which it supports through a program of grants, awards and related activities. Sunflower Foundation Appointment Announced July 20, 2006 Topeka: The Topeka-based Sunflower Foundation: Health Care for Kansans announces the appointment of Kraig L. Gross, Hays, to a three-year term as a member of the organization’s board of trustees. Gross, who is Controller/Office Manager for Kansas Natural Gas, Inc., Hays, was appointed to the position by Kansas Attorney General Phill Kline. The Sunflower Foundation is governed by nine trustees who represent diverse backgrounds and regions of the state. Eight members are appointed through a process overseen by the attorney general. One trustee is appointed by Blue Cross Blue Shield of Kansas. The Sunflower Foundation was created in 2000 with $75 million in proceeds from a settlement between the Kansas Attorney General, the Kansas Insurance Department and Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas to resolve Blue Cross’ charitable obligations to the state. The mission of the foundation is to serve as a catalyst for improving the health of Kansans, which it supports through a program of grants, awards and related activities. Sunflower Foundation Appointments Announced April 28, 2005 Topeka: The office of Kansas Attorney General Phill Kline has announced the appointment of five trustees to the board of the Topeka-based Sunflower Foundation: Health Care for Kansans. Eight members of the nine-member board are appointed through a process overseen by the Attorney General. One trustee is appointed by Blue Cross Blue Shield of Kansas. The trustee appointments include the reappointment of Brenda Gray, Wichita. New appointments include Marty Beezley, Pittsburg; Karen Hauser, Salina; Christopher Ruder, Lawrence; and Chris Sandoval, Dodge City. The attorney general’s trustee appointments come from candidates nominated by the foundation’s community advisory committee. The members of the community advisory committee are appointed by the attorney general. Three new appointments to the community advisory committee have also been announced, and include Bernard Franklin, Kansas City; Phyllis Gilmore, Olathe; and Kris Kobach, Overland Park. The Sunflower Foundation was created in 2000 with $75 million in proceeds from a settlement between the Kansas Attorney General, the Kansas Insurance Department and Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas to resolve Blue Cross’ charitable obligations to the state. The mission of the foundation is to serve as a catalyst for improving the health of Kansans, which it supports through a program of grants, awards and related activities. Sunflower Foundation Announces New Funding Opportunity October 5, 2005 Topeka: The Topeka-based Sunflower Foundation: Health Care for Kansans has announced a statewide grant opportunity through the organization’s semi-annual request for proposals (RFP). This initiative calls for programs and projects that address specified issues within the foundation’s three program areas: access to health care, capacity building, and healthy behaviors and prevention. Details on this funding opportunity and application documents can be found on the foundation’s Web site, www.sunflowerfoundation.org, or are available by calling the foundation at 785-232-3000 (local) or 866-232-3020 (toll free), or by e-mail request to info@sunflowerfoundation.org. The first step in applying to this grant opportunity is the submission of a concept paper, due November 15, 2005. Potential applicants are encouraged to participate in one of several RFP briefings to be held by telephone conference calls October 19 and 20, 2005. These briefings will be specific to individual program areas. Information regarding the conference call schedule and instructions for participating are also available on the foundation’s Web site. Those who submit concept papers will be notified in December if they have been selected to submit a full proposal. Invited full proposals will be due February 15, 2006. The Sunflower Foundation was created in 2000. The mission of the foundation is to serve as a catalyst for improving the health of Kansans, which it supports through a program of grants, awards and related activities. Sunflower Foundation Announces New Funding Opportunity April 5, 2005 Topeka: The Topeka-based Sunflower Foundation: Health Care for Kansans has announced a statewide grant opportunity. This is a new request for proposals (RFP), calling for programs and projects that address specified issues within the foundation’s three program areas: access to health care, capacity building, and healthy behaviors and prevention. Details on this funding opportunity and application documents can be found on the foundation’s Web site, www.sunflowerfoundation.org, or are available by calling the foundation at 785-232-3000 (local) or 866-232-3020 (toll free), or by e-mail request to info@sunflowerfoundation.org. The first step in applying to this grant opportunity is the submission of a concept paper, due May 15, 2005. Potential applicants are encouraged to participate in one of several RFP briefings to be held by teleconference April 20 and 22, 2005. These briefings will be specific to individual program areas. Information regarding the teleconference schedule and instructions for participating are also available on the foundation’s Web site. Those who submit concept papers will be notified in June if they have been selected to submit a full proposal. Invited full proposals will be due August 15, 2005. The Sunflower Foundation was created in 2000. The mission of the foundation is to serve as a catalyst for improving the health of Kansans, which it supports through a program of grants, awards and related activities. Sunflower Foundation Announces Grant Awards February 16, 2005 Topeka: The Topeka-based Sunflower Foundation: Health Care for Kansans has announced grant awards totaling $97,750 to 13 community-based coalitions throughout Kansas. The purpose of the grants is to enhance community-based tobacco use prevention and control programs. The Sunflower Foundation awards are a component of a partnership with the American Legacy Foundation and their Funders for Tobacco Control grant program. The program, which project is administered by the Kansas Department of Health and Environment. The coalitions receiving grants are based in Barton, Cloud, Cowley, Dickinson, Douglas, Ellis, Finney, Lyon, Jefferson, Pottawatomie, Reno, Riley and Sedgwick Counties. Billie G. Hall, president and CEO of the Sunflower Foundation, said, “The growing number of Kansans who are uninsured and underinsured has increased an already heavy burden on safety net providers. We are pleased to be able to support efforts by these organizations to build their capacity to provide essential health care services to those in need.” A complete list of grantees, including a brief description of their projects, will be available in the near future on the foundation’s Web site: www.sunflowerfoundation.org. Sunflower Foundation Announces New Funding Opportunity January 6, 2005 Topeka: The Topeka-based Sunflower Foundation: Health Care for Kansans has announced a statewide grant opportunity. This is a new request for proposals (RFP), calling for programs and projects that address specified issues within one or more of the foundation’s three program areas: access to health care, capacity building, and healthy behaviors and prevention. Details on this funding opportunity and application documents can be found on the foundation’s Web site, www.sunflowerfoundation.org, or are available by calling the foundation at 785-232-3000 or toll free at 866-232-3020, or by e-mail request to info@sunflowerfoundation.org. The first step in applying to this grant opportunity is the submission of a concept paper, due February 15, 2005. Potential applicants are invited to participate in one of several RFP briefings to be held by teleconference beginning January 18. A required registration form for the briefing conference calls is also available on the foundation’s Web site. Those who submit concept papers will be notified in March if they have been selected to submit a full proposal. Invited full proposals will be due May 1, 2005. With this announcement, the Sunflower Foundation is also inaugurating a new funding plan to issue semi-annual requests for proposals. Following this current grant opportunity, subsequent calls for proposals will be issued annually on May 15 and October 15. The Sunflower Foundation was created in 2000. The mission of the foundation is to serve as a catalyst for improving the health of Kansans, which it supports through a program of grants, awards and related activities. Sunflower Foundation Names Program Officer November 17, 2004 Topeka: The Topeka-based Sunflower Foundation: Health Care for Kansans has appointed Yvette Desrosiers-Alphonse as program officer for the organization. Prior to joining the Sunflower Foundation, Ms. Desrosiers-Alphonse served as program officer for The Rapides Foundation in Alexandria, Louisiana. In addition to her work in philanthropy, she also brings significant experience in public health to her new role, including service with the U.S. Peace Corps. Ms. Desrosiers-Alphonse is a native of Boston, Massachusetts. She holds a B.A. in Sociology from Boston College and a Masters of Public Health from Boston University School of Public Health. Ms. Desrosiers-Alphonse’s expertise includes health education, health promotion and access to health care. Billie G. Hall, president and CEO of the Sunflower Foundation, said, "We are delighted to have Yvette as part of our team. Her experience in public health and philanthropy will be a great benefit to our grantmaking program and our work to address public health issues in Kansas." The Sunflower Foundation was created in 2000. The organization has a statewide focus and a mission to serve as a catalyst for improving the health of Kansans, which it supports through a program of grants and related activities. Sunflower Foundation Announces American Legacy Foundation Grant July 8, 2004 Topeka: The Topeka-based Sunflower Foundation: Health Care for Kansans has been awarded a $150,000 grant from the American Legacy Foundation, a national public health foundation based in Washington, DC. The grant will enhance existing activities and support new efforts in tobacco use prevention and control through community coalitions across Kansas. The Sunflower Foundation is granting an additional $300,000 of its own funds to support the project, which will be administered by the Kansas Department of Health and Environment. The grant comes through the American Legacy Foundation’s Funders for Tobacco Control Grant Program, a national funder partnership effort designed to increase the number of foundations across the country that fund tobacco control programs in their communities, and develop a broader base of philanthropic organization involvement in tobacco control. Billie G. Hall, president and CEO of the Sunflower Foundation, said, "The American Legacy Foundation is committed to reducing tobacco use in the U.S. by promoting a range of prevention and cessation programs. We are very pleased to have the opportunity to participate with this respected foundation in this unique national, state and local partnership. Because of this program, community-based tobacco use prevention and control efforts in Kansas will be strengthened, potentially saving thousands of lives and keeping many young people from ever taking up the life-threatening habit of smoking." The Sunflower Foundation was created in 2000. The organization has a statewide focus and a mission to serve as a catalyst for improving the health of Kansans, which it supports through a program of grants, awards and related activities. ### The American Legacy Foundation is dedicated to building a world where young people reject tobacco and anyone can quit. Located in Washington, DC, the foundation develops programs that address the health effects of tobacco use through grants, technical assistance and training, youth activism, strategic partnerships, counter-marketing and grass roots marketing campaigns, public relations, and outreach to populations disproportionately affected by the toll of tobacco. The foundation’s national programs include Circle of FriendsTM, Great Start, a Priority Populations Initiative, Streetheory and truth®. The American Legacy Foundation was created as a result of the November 1998 Master Settlement Agreement (MSA) reached between attorneys general from 46 states and the tobacco industry. Visit www.americanlegacy.org. Sunflower Foundation Announces Grant Awards June 30, 2004 Topeka: The Topeka-based Sunflower Foundation: Health Care for Kansans has announced grant awards totaling $344,724 to 23 selected applicants throughout Kansas. The awards were in response to the organization’s recent request for proposals titled "Building the Capacity of the Health Care Safety Net in Kansas." In this funding cycle, the foundation targeted nonprofit safety net providers that deliver a significant amount of their health care services to the uninsured, underinsured and other vulnerable clients. Grants were awarded to assist these organizations in improving their organizational capacity through enhancements in areas such as organizational assessment, program evaluation, strategic planning, client management services, communications, financial management, fund development, governance, information systems and leadership development. Billie G. Hall, president and CEO of the Sunflower Foundation, said, "The growing number of Kansans who are uninsured and underinsured has increased an already heavy burden on safety net providers. We are pleased to be able to support efforts by these organizations to build their capacity to provide essential health care services to those in need." A complete list of grantees, including a brief description of their projects, will be available in the near future on the foundation’s Web site: www.sunflowerfoundation.org. Sunflower Foundation Announces Funding Opportunity Addressing Obesity March 19, 2004 Topeka: The Topeka-based Sunflower Foundation: Health Care for Kansans has announced a funding opportunity designed to promote physical activity and healthy eating to reduce the prevalence of obesity in Kansas. The foundation is looking for projects that help people make healthy choices – projects that increase opportunities for and remove barriers to physical activity and healthy eating. This targeted funding by the Sunflower Foundation is in response to the building evidence that overweight and obesity in Kansas are increasing at an alarming rate, as they are nationally. In fact, many are calling the situation an epidemic. The foundation recognizes that this public health problem is complex and needs to be addressed through a variety of community-based intervention sites, including schools, worksites, restaurants, health care settings, parks and recreations facilities, neighborhoods and communities. This request for proposals focuses on approaches in these and related sites. Billie G. Hall, President and CEO of the Sunflower Foundation, said, “We are all hearing more every day about the growing obesity epidemic. We are concerned about the implications of this problem, both in terms of the health risk to individuals and the cost to society, and have committed significant resources to helping find solutions in Kansas. This funding opportunity is one strategy to create and support systems that help individuals across our state establish and maintain healthy and active lifestyles.” The postmark deadline for proposals is April 23, 2004. Complete information and funding guidelines are available on the foundation’s Web site, by calling the foundation at (785) 232-3000 or toll free at (866) 232-3020, or by e-mail. Sunflower Foundation Announces Funding Opportunity Targeting Safety Net Capacity Building February 18, 2004 Topeka: The Topeka-based Sunflower Foundation: Health Care for Kansans has announced a funding opportunity designed to strengthen the capacity of health care safety net providers in Kansas. Typically, these are providers that deliver a significant level of health care to the uninsured, those covered by Medicaid and others unable to pay for services. Funds will be available to help qualifying organizations strengthen their capacity to serve by assessing or implementing capacity building needs and by forming collaborations to improve services. Billie G. Hall, President and CEO of the Sunflower Foundation, said, “Safety net providers in Kansas continue to demonstrate a remarkable commitment to meeting the health care needs of the vulnerable populations they serve. But, as the demand for their services continues to increase, many find their resources stretched to the limit with few options available for building capacity. It is the hope of the Sunflower Foundation that the funds committed to this initiative can help strengthen these organizations and their ability to serve the health care needs of their clientele.” Applications for this funding opportunity must be postmarked by March 15, 2004. Complete information and funding guidelines are available on the foundation’s Web site (www.sunflowerfoundation.org), by calling the foundation at (785) 232-3000 or toll free at (866) 232-3020, or by e-mail (info@sunflowerfoundation.org). The mission of the Sunflower Foundation is to serve as a catalyst for improving the health of Kansans, which it supports through a program of grants, awards and other related activities. Sunflower Foundation Announces Grant Awards April 11, 2003 Topeka: The Topeka-based Sunflower Foundation: Health Care for Kansans has announced grant awards totaling $320,000 to 39 selected applicants throughout Kansas. The awards were in response to the organization’s recent request for proposals titled "Strengthening the Organizational Capacity of Safety Net Providers." In this funding cycle, the foundation targeted non profit health care organizations that deliver a significant amount of their health care services to the uninsured, underinsured and other vulnerable clients. Grants were awarded to assist these organizations in improving their organizational capacity through enhancements in areas such as strategic planning, governance, information systems, fund development, management, client management services and evaluation. Billie G. Hall, president and CEO of the Sunflower Foundation, said, "We recognize that core safety net providers in Kansas are experiencing increased demands on their services while often operating with declining resources. We are pleased to support these organizations which provide essential health care services to those in need." A complete list of grantees, including a brief description of their projects, is available on the foundation’s Web site: www.sunflowerfoundation.org. The Sunflower Foundation was created in 2000 with $75 million in proceeds from a settlement between the Kansas Attorney General, the Kansas Insurance Department and Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas to resolve Blue Cross’ charitable obligations to the state. The mission of the Foundation is to serve as a catalyst for improving the health of Kansans, which it will support through a program of grants, awards and other related activities. Candidates Sought for Sunflower Foundation Board of Trustees January 13, 2003 Topeka: Candidates are being sought for two positions on the board of trustees of the Topeka-based Sunflower Foundation: Health Care for Kansans, by the organization’s nominating entity, its Community Advisory Committee. Final appointments to the foundation’s board are made by the Kansas Attorney General from the nominations submitted by the Community Advisory Committee. The Sunflower Foundation was created in 2000 with $75 million in proceeds from a settlement between the Kansas Attorney General, the Kansas Insurance Department and Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas to resolve Blue Cross’ charitable obligations to the state. The mission of the foundation is to serve as a catalyst for improving the health of Kansans, which it supports through a program of grants, awards and other related activities. Rochelle Chronister, Chair, Community Advisory Committee For further information, contact Billie G. Hall, president and CEO, Sunflower Foundation, 785.232.3000 or toll free 866.232.3020. Sunflower Foundation Announces Funding Opportunity Addressing Obesity December 17, 2002 Topeka: The Topeka-based Sunflower Foundation: Health Care for Kansans has announced a funding opportunity designed to support efforts to reduce the prevalence of obesity in Kansas. The organization has issued a call for Letters of Intent to explore diverse approaches and strategies that address obesity prevention, intervention, research, data and information. Following a review of all responses to this call, selected applicants will be invited to submit a full proposal for funding. The Sunflower Foundation’s interest in this issue is not new, but has been heightened as more evidence becomes available regarding the health consequences of obesity. Billie G. Hall, President and CEO of the organization, said, "It’s clear that the impact of this complex problem is significant, whether calculated in health risk or in resources, and pervasive, affecting all segments of the population, regardless of age, race or gender. The prevention and treatment of overweight and obesity and their associated health problems are important public health goals, a great interest to our board and the impetus of this funding opportunity. We are confident that many organizations in our state have the capacity to advance creative and effective projects that address obesity in the Kansas population and we are eager to review the ideas put forward in response to this call." Further information regarding this funding opportunity is available on the foundation’s Web site (www.sunflowerfoundation.org), by calling the foundation at (785) 232-3000 or toll free at (866) 232-3020, or by e-mail (info@sunflowerfoundation.org). Letters of Intent in response to this call are due January 24, 2003. Sunflower Foundation Announces Board Appointment December 16, 2002 Topeka: The Topeka-based Sunflower Foundation: Health Care for Kansans, announces the recent appointment of Jeffrey O. Ellis, J.D., to its board of trustees. Mr. Ellis practices Law in Overland Park, Kansas, where he is a partner in the firm of Lathrop & Gage. His expertise includes the areas of health care, corporate/general business and insurance coverage. He has served in numerous capacities at the local and statewide level, including as a member of the National Association of Insurance Commissioner’s Task Force on High Risk Insurance Pools, the Kansas Insurance Commissioner’s Advisory Committee on Health Care, and as a task force chair of the Governor’s Commission on Health Care. Mr. Ellis was appointed to the Sunflower Foundation board of trustees by Attorney General Carla J. Stovall to fill the unexpired term of Dave A. Lindstrom, an Overland Park businessman who resigned his position earlier in the year. Mary Carol Pomatto, Ed.D., chair of the foundation’s board, said "We are delighted to have Jeff join our board. He is very involved in his community and in activities across Kansas and is concerned about the issues that are important to our organization. He will bring a unique and beneficial perspective to the Sunflower Foundation." The Sunflower Foundation was created in 2000 with $75 million in proceeds from a settlement between the Kansas Attorney General, the Kansas Insurance Department and Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas to resolve Blue Cross’ charitable obligations to the state. The mission of the foundation is to serve as a catalyst for improving the health of Kansans, which it supports through a program of grants, awards and other related activities.
Sunflower Foundation Announces New Funding Opportunity November 18, 2002 Topeka: The Topeka-based Sunflower Foundation: Health Care for Kansans, has announced a unique funding opportunity designed to strengthen the organizational capacity of safety net providers. Typically, these are health care providers that deliver the majority of their services to the uninsured, those covered by Medicaid and others unable to pay for services provided. Funds will be available to assist qualifying organizations in several areas, including governance and management development, information systems, fund development, client management services and evaluation. Billie G. Hall, President and CEO of the Sunflower Foundation, said, "We are aware that many providers in this category have a critical need for resources, especially as the vulnerable populations they serve increase in numbers. It is the hope of the Sunflower Foundation that the funds committed to this initiative can help strengthen these organizations and assist them to provide more efficient and effective services to their growing constituencies." Applications for this funding opportunity are due December 31, 2002. Further information and funding guidelines are available on the foundation’s Web site (www.sunflowerfoundation.org), by calling the foundation at (785) 232-3000 or toll free at (866) 232-3020, or by e-mail (info@sunflowerfoundation.org). Sunflower Foundation Announces First Grant Awards June 21, 2002 Topeka: The Topeka-based Sunflower Foundation: Health Care for Kansans has announced its first grant awards. The grants are in response to the organization’s recent request for proposals extended to health-based organizations statewide and were primarily awarded based on priority areas of interest established by the foundation’s board of trustees. Those priorities included programs to expand the number of Kansans with health insurance, to increase the capacity of safety net health care providers, to seek long-term solutions that address health care workforce shortages, to gain new insights into factors leading to and prevention efforts regarding obesity in children and youth, to increase access to prescription drugs for the low income elderly and to explore strategies that strengthen volunteer caregiving as an important component of health care for the aging. Mary Carol Pomatto, Ed.D., chair of the Sunflower Foundation Board of Trustees, said, "We’re excited to begin our work as a health philanthropy. The grants we’re awarding represent new resources directed to communities across the state at a time when public and private funding for health and social services is limited. We had an overwhelming response to the announcement of our first grant opportunity, confirming the growing needs of organizations that are committed to improving the health of Kansas residents and giving us some very hard choices to make among many excellent proposals." Dr. Pomatto indicated that the populations served by the programs of the approved grants are generally representative of the state’s population distribution, with every geographic region receiving funding from the foundation through regional or statewide programs. Projects funded also target multiple racial and ethnic groups, seniors, youth and the uninsured and underinsured. In this first funding cycle, the foundation’s resources allowed it to grant approximately $2.5 million to the 46 selected applicants; a total of nearly $11 million was requested from 139 applicants. The grant recipients are primarily not-for-profit health and social services organizations, with additional awards to several university-based programs and state initiatives. A complete list of grantees and their projects is available under the "Grantee News" page of the foundation’s Web site: www.sunflowerfoundation.org. The organization’s next grantmaking cycle will begin in July, 2002, with details of the funding opportunity and criteria to be announced on the Web site and through the media. Sunflower Foundation Announces Community Advisory Committee Members February 1, 2002 Topeka: The Topeka-based Sunflower Foundation: Health Care for Kansans has announced the appointment of nine individuals to its Community Advisory Committee. The appointments, made by Kansas Attorney General Carla Stovall, complete the new organization’s compliment of governance and advisory entities. The ongoing role of the Community Advisory Committee is to nominate candidates for appointment by the Attorney General to the organization’s Board of Trustees, which also has nine members, and to provide input to that Board on other matters as requested. Two State Senators and two State Representatives, appointed by the leadership of the Kansas Legislature, also serve as Legislative Advisors to the Foundation’s Board of Trustees. The members of the Community Advisory Committee, chosen to reflect diverse representation from across Kansas, include: Rochelle Chronister, Neodesha; Lynn Mitchelson, Kansas City; Margaret Myers, Hutchinson; Verna M. Rundell, Syracuse; Karen A. Seals, Lawrence; Dale Sprague, McPherson; Anita Strnad, Munden; Sandra S. Vader, Shawnee Mission; and Oren M. Windholz, Hays. The Sunflower Foundation was created in 2000 with $75 million in proceeds from a settlement between the Kansas Attorney General, the Kansas Insurance Department and Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas to resolve Blue Cross’ charitable obligations to the state. The mission of the Foundation is to serve as a catalyst for improving the health of Kansans, which it will support through a program of grants, awards and other related activities. The philanthropy expects to announce its first year program guidelines and funding opportunities in March.
Sunflower Foundation Names New Officer January 17, 2002 Topeka: Billie G. Hall, President and CEO of the Topeka-based Sunflower Foundation: Health Care for Kansans, today announced that Larry Tobias has been named the organization’s Program Officer. In making the announcement, Hall said, "I am delighted that Larry is joining the Sunflower Foundation staff. His hospital background, both in governance and at the executive level, gives him a broad knowledge of the health care delivery system in Kansas. His awareness of the unique health care challenges of communities across the state and experiences in coalition development will be valuable assets to the Foundation as we work to establish grantmaking strategies that will benefit Kansas citizens." Tobias, a native of Lyons, comes to the Foundation from his position as Vice President of Community Relations at the Kansas Hospital Association. Immediately prior, he served as the Kansas Health Foundation/Kansas Hospital Association Community Health Fellow, following seven years as the Vice President of Operations at Memorial Hospital in McPherson. The Sunflower Foundation was created in 2000 with $75 million in proceeds from a settlement between the Kansas Attorney General, the Kansas Insurance Department and Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas to resolve Blue Cross’ charitable obligations to the state. The mission of the Foundation is to serve as a catalyst for improving the health of Kansans, which it will support through a program of grants, awards and other related activities. The philanthropy is governed by a nine-member board of trustees, who represent diverse interests and regions of the state. The Sunflower Foundation expects to announce its first year program guidelines and funding opportunities in early 2002. Sunflower Foundation Names CEO August 28, 2001 Topeka: The Sunflower Foundation Board of Trustees announced this week the selection of Billie Hall, Topeka, as the foundation’s first Chief Executive Officer. The Sunflower Foundation is a new Kansas health foundation created to serve the health needs of Kansans. Sunflower’s board chairman, Mary Carol Pomatto, Pittsburg, said, "The Board of Trustees is extremely pleased to announce the appointment of Billie Hall as CEO of the Sunflower Foundation: Health Care for Kansans. Over the next few months we will be identifying the strategic direction for the foundation, establishing a permanent office, and developing grantmaking guidelines to address the health care mission of the organization." Hall has an extensive background in community health, program development, and public health policy. As Sunflower’s CEO, Hall will be responsible for implementing the foundation’s strategic plan, establishing the operational policies and procedures, developing the grantmaking program and guidelines, and directing the foundation’s endowment. "I am excited about the contribution the Sunflower Foundation can make in improving health and access to care for all Kansans. Collaboration will be a key component in our work as we encourage the development of new partnerships across the state," said Hall. Hall, who most recently served as Vice President for the Kansas Health Institute, Topeka, has more than 20 years experience in working with public and private health systems. She has a master’s degree in public health from the University of Missouri, Columbia, and received a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Washburn University, Topeka. She has served as Executive Director of the Community Health Council, Inc., Manhattan; Director of the Jane C. Stormont Women’s Health Center, Topeka; and Director of Corporate Services for Kansas Foundation for Medical Care, Topeka. In 2000, the Sunflower Foundation was formed with $75 million in proceeds from a settlement between the Kansas Attorney General, the Kansas Insurance Department, and Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas to resolve Blue Cross’ charitable obligations to the state. The Foundation is governed by nine trustees, eight appointed by the Kansas Attorney General and one appointed by Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas. The trustees are to invest the $75 million and use the proceeds to further the Foundation’s charitable purpose. The Foundation will support health care related activities through a widely publicized program of grants and awards. Earlier this year, the board of trustees elected Dr. Mary Carol Pomatto, Assistant to the President/Legislative Liaison at Pittsburg State University, Pittsburg, as Chairman of the Board. Brenda Gray, Director of University Relations, University of Kansas School of Medicine, Wichita, was elected Secretary of the Board; and Harry Craig, Jr., Chairman and CEO of Martin Tractor Company, Topeka, was elected Treasurer. The remaining six trustees include: David Lindstrom, Overland Park; Dr. Vernon Mills, Leavenworth; Penney Schwab, Garden City; Cindy Rainey, Lawrence; Greg Unruh, Scott City; and Tom Miller, Topeka. Sunflower Foundation’s Board of Trustees November 20, 2000 Attorney General Carla J. Stovall today announced the appointment of nine members to the Board of Trustees of the Sunflower Foundation: Health Care for Kansans. This new public health foundation was created as part of the $75 million settlement between Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas (BCBSKS), Attorney General Stovall and Insurance Commissioner Kathleen Sebelius. The $75 million will remain as a permanent endowment for public healthcare, with only the interest earned being available for expenditure on an annual basis by the trustees. "I was absolutely delighted with the high personal caliber and range of expertise of the 95 Kansans who applied to serve on the governing body of the Sunflower Foundation," Attorney General Stovall said. "The difficult task was in choosing only eight, because every individual would have brought unique talents and perspectives to the board." The Settlement Agreement dictated that the Attorney General select eight trustees with the ninth being selected by Blue Cross and Blue Shield. Stovall sought recommendations from statewide elected officials, legislative leadership, community groups, and the public at large. "My hope, too, is that the newly elected President of the Kansas Senate and Speaker of the Kansas House, as well as the minority leaders of each body, will each designate a legislator to serve on a legislative advisory group, to advise the Board of Trustees as they make decisions regarding the health needs of Kansans." BCBSKS filed a lawsuit against Attorney General Stovall in May 1997 to determine whether or not BCBSKS had any charitable financial obligations that stemmed from its original organization and operation. The Attorney General was sued because the responsibility to protect the charitable assets of the people of Kansas rests with the Attorney General. She maintained that BCBSKS had charitable obligations while BCBSKS believed it did not. The Insurance Commissioner intervened in the lawsuit and sided with the Attorney General. On August 21, 2000, Attorney General Stovall, President and CEO of BCBSKS John Knack, and Insurance Commissioner Sebelius announced that they had reached a settlement of the lawsuit. BCBSKS agreed to pay $75 million to fund a new public health foundation that will serve the health needs of Kansans in several ways, which include providing health care and health care information, promoting preventive health care which can include tobacco prevention and providing other health-related services. In accordance with the settlement agreement, members of the Board of Trustees must reflect the diversity of the state's geographi, ethnic, gende, age, socioeconomic and professional characteristics. They also must have qualifications and qualities that will most benefit the Foundation in carrying out it charitable purposes. Because of the unique responsibility of the Attorney General in protecting public charitable monies, the settlement agreement required the Attorney General to appoint the members and to oversee the establishment and operation of the foundation. The members of the Sunflower Foundation Board of Trustees are as follows: Harry Craig, Jr., Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Martin Tractor Company, of Topeka. Since 1993, Craig has been a member of the Board of Directors of Stormont-Vail HealthCare and currently serves as Vice Chair. He also is a member of the Kansas Board of Regents and is a trustee of the Menninger Foundation. Craig was nominated by Secretary of State Ron Thornburgh. Brenda Gray, Director of Marketing for Foulston & Siefkin, L.L.P, of Wichita. Gray is a recipient of the 2000 A. Price Woodard Award from the National Conference of Community and Justice which fights discrimination and bias. She is a 1992 Leadership 2000 Alumna, a member of the Wichita Eagle Editorial Community Advisory Committee, and the past president of the Family Services Institute Board of Directors. David Lindstrom, former Kansas City Chiefs player and now a Kansas City-area business man, of Overland Park. Lindstrom was recently honored as Leadership Kansas Alumnus of the Year. He is past chair of the Kansas Special Olympics, a board member of the Shawnee Mission Medical Center Foundation and the founder of the Kansas City Sports Walk of Stars. Dr. Vernon Mills, general pediatrics doctor, of Leavenworth. He is a member of the board of directors for Heartland Health, Providence Hospital and PrimeCare Northeast Kansas. Dr. Mills was nominated by Jerry Slaughter on behalf of the Kansas Medical Society. Dr. Mary Carol Pomatto, Assistant to the President/Legislative Liaison and Professor of Nursing at Pittsburg State University, of Pittsburg. Pomatto has served as the Assistant to the President since 1996 and has served as a Professor in Nursing since 1974. She was nominated by Insurance Commissioner Kathleen Sebelius, State Treasurer Tim Shallenburger, and State Senator Jim Barone. Penny Schwab, Executive Director of United Methodist Western Kansas Mexican-American Ministries, of Garden City. Schwab has served as the executive director since 1986 and also is a charter member of the Kansas Association for the Medically Underserved. She was nominated by the Kansas Association for the Medically Underserved. Cindy Rainey of Lawrence has more than 25 years of experience in professional and volunteer fundraising. She has worked for many non-profit organizations throughout the country from the American Red Cross to science museums. Prior to her financial development work, she was a laboratory technologist involved in cancer research in pharmacology laboratories at the University of Michigan Medical School and the Sloan Kettering Research Institute in New York City. Greg Unruh, President and CEO of the Scott County Hospital, of Onaga. Prior to joining the Scott County Hospital in 1994, Unruh was the administrator of Senior Institutional Services for Lutheran Medical Center in Wheatridge, Colorado. Unruh was nominated by former United States Senator Sheila Frahm based on his health-related background and experience. BCBSKS's appointee to the Board of Trustees is Tom Miller, former President of Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas, of Topeka. Miller was employed by BCBSKS for 30 years. His professional experience with BCBSKS included finance, medicare, medicaid, medical affairs and health information services. According to the settlement agreement, three of the trustees shall serve for one year, three shall serve for two years and three shall serve for three years. Replacements will be nominated by the nine members of the Community Advisory Committee, who shall be appointed by the Attorney General by March of 2001. The CAC members will reflect the same diversity and qualifications as the Trustees and the Attorney General welcomes applications from persons interested in serving on this committee. "These members of the Sunflower Foundation have accepted a unique and exciting challenge - to improve the health of Kansas citizens for generations to come!" Attorney General Stovall said. "There will be a tremendous amount of work involved in assessing the health needs the foundation should address and I am grateful so many citizens are willing to devote the time and energy necessary to perform this valuable community service." $75 Million to Fund New Health Care Foundation August 21, 2000
$75 MILLION TO FUND NEW HEALTH CARE FOUNDATION Attorney General Carla J. Stovall, President and CEO of Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas, John W. Knack, and Insurance Commissioner Kathleen Sebelius announced today at a news conference in Topeka that they have reached an agreement in the lawsuit that Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas (BCBSKS) filed in May 1997. As part of the settlement, BCBSKS has agreed to pay $75 million to fund a new public health foundation. "This is a great day for public health in Kansas. I am honored to have created, with my partners here today, the Sunflower Foundation: Health Care for Kansas," Attorney General Stovall said. "I think it's appropriate to use the money from this agreement to incorporate a new public health foundation. The Sunflower Foundation will serve the health needs of Kansans in several ways, such as providing health care and health care information, promoting preventive health care which can include tobacco prevention, and providing other health-related services." The agreement resolves litigation that was filed by BCBSKS against the Attorney General to resolve whether or not BCBSKS had charitable assets because of the manner in which the company was originally organized and operated. The Kansas Insurance Department, an intervener in the lawsuit, also approved the agreement. According to Knack, BCBSKS decided to settle the lawsuit to avoid putting the company under continued risk of losing all of its assets. "Our board of directors felt it was best not to gamble on the results of an appeals court decision that would keep the suit in litigation for at least another year and potentially jeopardize all our policyholders' assets," Knack said. "We need to know where we are in today's competitive marketplace environment and go forward from there." Attorney General Stovall believed this lawsuit was inevitable either with the State of Kansas as plaintiff or BCBSKS as plaintiff. "I am glad BCBSKS took the initiative when it did to create an opportunity for this issue to be judicially addressed," Attorney General Stovall said. Insurance Commissioner Kathleen Sebelius said she joined the lawsuit to protect the people of Kansas who are BCBSKS policyholders. "I believe this is a fair and reasonable amount for Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas to pay," Insurance Commissioner Sebelius said. "The financial viability of Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas affects tens of thousands of people across the state. As the largest health insurer in the state, it was important to me that Blue Cross and Blue Shield remain financially sound." The settlement comes as a result of a Shawnee County District Court ruling earlier this year that held that BCBSKS has charitable obligations stemming from its origin in 1941 through 1969. According to the terms of the agreement, within 30 days, BCBSKS will transfer the $75 million to the Wichita Community Foundation on a temporary basis until the Sunflower Foundation is formed and obtains tax-exempt status as a charitable organization. The Sunflower Foundation will be governed by nine trustees - eight appointed by the Attorney General and one appointed by BCBSKS. The trustees will invest the $75 million and use the proceeds to further the Sunflower Foundation's charitable purpose. Each fiscal year the Sunflower Foundation will distribute a minimum of five percent of its assets in grants in order to support health care related activities. At least once a year, the trustees will report the foundation's affairs, financial condition and significant activities to the Attorney General and a Community Advisory Committee (CAC) which also will be set up as a result of the agreement. The Attorney General will provide that information each year to the Governor and the Legislature. In selecting the board members, consideration will be given to ensure that the board represents Kansas' geographic, ethnic, gender, age, socioeconomic and professional diversity. In addition, each member shall possess the type of qualifications and qualities that will most benefit the Sunflower Foundation in furthering its charitable purpose. No later than nine months after the creation of the Sunflower Foundation, the Attorney General will appoint nine members to the Community Advisory Committee. The committee members will be selected based on the same qualifications imposed on the trustees. CAC members will select three trustee candidates for each vacancy on the Sunflower Foundation's board of trustees, from which future trustees will be appointed. "Thirty-one states, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico have or are addressing the preservation and conversion of Blue Cross and Blue Shield's charitable assets," Attorney General Stovall said. "I am pleased that this has been resolved in Kansas and BCBSKS can pursue business opportunities that will best serve its needs and the needs of its policyholders." Statement of Attorney General Carla J. Stovall August 21, 2000 On behalf of John Knack, President and CEO of Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas, and Insurance Commissioner Kathleen Sebelius, I am pleased to announce today a settlement of the lawsuit filed by Blue Cross against the Attorney General in May 1997. As you may remember, the lawsuit was filed to simply determine whether or not Blue Cross/Blue Shield had any financial obligations to the people of Kansas that stemmed from their original organization and operation, which I maintained had significant charitable characteristics. Blue Cross had a contrary view. The Insurance Commissioner intervened and sided with me. Keep in mind, this issue was not unique to Kansas. Thirty-one other states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico have resolved or are involved in similar disputes with the Blue Cross organizations within their jurisdictions. Earlier this year, Judge Nancy Parrish, of Shawnee County District Court, issued a ruling that made both sides win and lose simultaneously. She held that BCBSKS had charitable obligations (the Attorney General wins), but that they concluded in 1969 not in 1999 (Blue Cross wins). Both sides were set to appeal, and the litigation would have continued for another couple of years. Instead, the parties began settlement discussions and are able to announce the details of the settlement to you today. Blue Cross/Blue Shield of Kansas will pay $75 million to create The Sunflower Foundation: Health Care for Kansans. Consistent with the controlling principle of cy pres, the money that was owed to the people of Kansas must be used for purposes consistent with the intent of the original donors. People giving money in the 1940's, 1950's and 1960's to Blue Cross intended that their money would benefit the health of Kansas citizens. The Sunflower Foundation will make grants and engage in certain other activities which further its purpose of serving the health needs of Kansans by 1) providing health care and health care information to indigent, uninsured, and under-insured persons, 2) promoting preventive health care (which includes - but is not limited to - reduction of tobacco use and addiction), and 3) engaging in other health related services. Because the sole responsibility for protection of public charitable monies rests with the Attorney General, I will continue to play an active role in establishing this foundation and nurturing its development. I will immediately move to incorporate the Sunflower Foundation and to appoint its eight initial members of the Board of Trustees. Blue Cross also will have the right to appoint one member of the Board of Trustees. Thereafter, Trustees will be nominated by a Community Advisory Committee, which I shall appoint in nine months. Members of the Board of Trustees and the Community Advisory Committee will reflect the diversity of the state - and will recognize our geographic, ethnic, gender, age, socioeconomic, and professional characteristics. They must also have qualifications and qualities which will most benefit the Foundation in carrying out its charitable purposes. More specific limitations on these individuals is contained in the press packet. I welcome letters of interest regarding people who would be valuable members of our initial Board of Trustees. Those letters can be sent to me at 120 SW 10th, Topeka, 66612. The letters will get routed to me more quickly if the senders clearly designate "The Sunflower Foundation" boldly and clearly. In several months, I will solicit names for those people who should be considered for a position on the Community Advisory Committee. The $75 million is intended to be a permanent endowment and the Trustees must implement investment and spending policies consistent with that principle. They will issue an annual report detailing their investments and revenue, as well as grants made and expenses incurred. I will make this report public. I am pleased that this issue has been resolved in Kansas in the manner in which it has. The people of Kansas benefit from a permanent endowment dedicated to health care and BCBSKS benefits because it can now conduct its business and serve its policyholders, without the cloud of litigation, while remaining financially viable and stable. It has been a pleasure to work with Blue Cross Blue Shield of Kansas and its President and CEO, John Knack. I greatly appreciate the cooperation and professionalism of John and his staff. Outline of Foundation Structure and Governance August 21, 2000 The Attorney General shall immediately begin paperwork to incorporate The Sunflower Foundation and to receive its tax-exempt status from the IRS. She also shall organize its first meeting of incorporators or Trustees. Within 30 days of August 21, 2000, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas (BCBSKS) will transfer $75 million to the Wichita Community Foundation to be held on a temporary basis for the Foundation. Any interest earned shall inure to The Sunflower Foundation. SELECTION OF MEMBERS OF BOARD OF TRUSTEES. Within 60 days of August 21, 2000, the Attorney General shall select eight Trustees to serve on the initial board - after consultation with elected officials and community groups. Three of these trustees shall serve for one year, three shall serve for two years, and two shall serve for three years.
Within 30 days of August 21, 2000, BCBSKS shall appoint a Trustee to serve a 3 year term. BCBSKS may continue to have one Trustee on the Board as long as BCBSKS remains a domestic corporation. Within nine months after the creation of The Sunflower Foundation, the Attorney General shall appoint nine persons to the Community Advisory Committee (CAC). Three of the CAC members shall serve for one year, three shall serve for two years, and three shall serve for three years and will reflect the same diversity and qualifications as the Trustees. The CAC will nominate three candidates for each Trustee position open and the Attorney General (after the initial board) will select from these candidates.
PURPOSE OF FOUNDATION The foundation shall make grants and engage in other activities (consistent with being a non-profit) which further its charitable purpose to serve the health needs of Kansans, including providing health care and health care information to indigent, uninsured, and under-insured persons; promoting preventive health care (including reducing tobacco use and addiction), and other health related services.
Each year the Foundation shall pay out no less than five percent of the Fair Market Value of its assets. The Foundation is intended to be a permanent endowment and Trustees will adopt spending/investment policy to that effect. Each year the Foundation will provide to the CAC and the Attorney General an annual report including the grants made, expenses incurred, and revenue generated. The AG will make this available to the Governo, the Kansas Legislature, and the public. | Calendar October 28, 2010 Final application deadline for the foundation's three current Requests for Proposals (RFPs). Plan to participate in TELEPHONE CONFERENCE CALL BRIEFINGS to discuss the RFPs and the new Online Application process. Watch this website for the briefing schedules as they are announced. |
