Major donation leads to digital inclusion for Loretto employees

Posted on April 25, 2021

Thanks to the generosity of the Parker Family of Portland, Oregon, Loretto will launch a new technical training program this spring to promote digital-inclusion with its employees.

With this half million dollar donation, the organization will begin training its diverse staff on new electronic medical records (EMR) that will significantly streamline how frontline healthcare workers provide care, as well as provide them with transferrable skills that will enable them to be successful in a digital, knowledge-based economy.

Through collaborations with lead EMR vendors, and because of financial support from a New York State grant and the Mother Cabrini Foundation, Loretto had been planning for initiatives around digital literacy for its workforce throughout 2020. Digital literacy, or the skill of being able to find, discern, analyze and use high quality data found on digital platforms, is a critical component of providing high quality, affordable health care.

Healthcare workers have faced roadblocks in growth around technology, though. “Digitally-literate knowledge workers have higher wages and lower unemployment rates than service and blue-collar workers, who are seeing persistently higher unemployment rates and wage stagnation,” said Dr. Kimberly Townsend, president and CEO at Loretto. For low income and rural populations, this disparity has a significant negative impact on the development of their regions and on their ability to participate in an increasingly digital economy.

Quick Facts:

·        As an employer, 65% of Loretto’s frontline employees are individuals coming from the most highly impoverished zip codes in the United States.

·        As a safety net provider, 70% of the individuals Loretto serves are Medicaid-eligible. Medicaid is the government sponsored health plan for low-income individuals, seniors, and chronically ill children.

Loretto is committed to providing the training and resources needed to allow each employee to fully participate in a digitally-driven, knowledge-based economy. But this training requires a significant financial investment. The Parker Family recognized the opportunity to effect change at both an organizational-level and personally for employees.

“In 2007, my parents became residents of the Loretto community. During frequent visits with them, I became acquainted with dozens of employees, who work diligently and with compassion.  Technical literacy has become imperative for all workplaces of today and tomorrow. My family is honored to help Loretto initiate the EMR Employee Training program, which will advance staff skills and allow them to enhance the service they provide," Kathy Parker shared in regard to what inspired this generosity.

The Parker Family, comprised of Mark and Kathy Parker, along with their three children, dedicated this support in honor of John and Shirley Mills, Kathy's parents. While Shirley still resides in her hometown of Syracuse, NY, this support helps to keep John's memory alive and at the forefront of their family's minds. John and Shirley spent their lives as humble, devoted community members of Central New York, known for their commitment to helping populations in need. The family values philanthropic investments that generate outcomes, particularly for those who are most marginalized. Kathy Parker still visits her hometown regularly to spend time with her mother.

Loretto relies in large part on the generosity of the community to support its operations and the care that its employees carry out daily to support thousands of Central New Yorkers each year.

“While many companies have had to lay off workers and close their doors, we are continuing to find ways to invest in our employees in ways that support their personal growth, support the mission of Loretto as in organization, and support our community as a whole,” Townsend said. “Words cannot express what this donation from the Parkers means to our employees and our organization. We hope this inspires others in the community to consider many of our initiatives that are still in need of financial support.”

About Loretto

Loretto is a leader in comprehensive healthcare services in Central New York. As the fourth largest healthcare provider and the sixth largest employer in the region, the 2,500 exceptional people at Loretto’s 19 locations deliver extraordinary care to close to 10,000 people of all ages, income levels, and care needs in Onondaga and Cayuga counties each year. From adult day programs and short-term rehabilitation, to the home-like settings in its assisted living communities and skilled nursing facilities, Loretto is actively investing in its employees, in medical research, and in new technologies to improve care in our community, Making Every Day Extraordinary. Loretto: Exceptional people. Extraordinary care. For more information on Loretto, please visit lorettocny.org.

Other Member News

Broadway in Syracuse
July 26, 2024

TICKETS FOR CAMERON MACKINTOSH’S ACCLAIMED PRODUCTION OF BOUBLIL AND SCHÖNBERG’S LES MISÉRABLES WILL GO ON SALE JULY 29TH AT 10AM

This reborn dream of a production looks and sounds fresher than ever. Sends shivers of excitement racing down the spine - You emerge feeling stirred and exhilarated.

Logo for Dannible & McKee, LLP
July 25, 2024

Dannible & McKee, LLP Announces the Promotion of 18 Professionals

The commitment to excellence from these 18 professionals is well demonstrated, and we congratulate them on their achievements.

Park Strategies Managing Director Featured in syracuse.com Article on New York's Cannabis Industry Rollout
July 24, 2024

Park Strategies Managing Director Featured in syracuse.com Article on New York's Cannabis Industry Rollout

His advocacy, born from an understanding of coalition-building and decision-making, has been influential amid many regulatory challenges.

Forbes Best Employers for Women logo
July 23, 2024

Excellus BlueCross BlueShield Recognized by Forbes as One of America’s Best Employers for Women 2024

This award highlights the organization’s ongoing commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace where women can thrive and advance their careers.

Ashley McGraw Architects
July 23, 2024

Ashley McGraw Architects Acquires studioMLA Architects, A National Leader in Early Education Design

Founded in 2006, studioMLA Architects is recognized as a national leader in the design of early education facilities along with nature-inspired playscapes for young children.

Mike Becallo
July 23, 2024

Michael Becallo Joins Oswego Health as Community Relations Representative

Originally from Cicero, Becallo is well-routed in CNY and brings over 15 years of healthcare experience.

Kate Weidman, Deputy Executive Director, AURORA of CNY
July 19, 2024

AURORA of CNY Announces Leadership Changes

Weidman will transition into the role of Executive Director following the retirement of current Executive Director Debra Chaiken, ensuring a seamless succession in leadership.

Credit Score 101
July 17, 2024

Credit Score 101 - Everything You Need to Know

Understanding and managing your credit score is a key step towards achieving financial stability and success. 

Larry Bousquet
July 16, 2024

Crouse Health Board of Directors Welcomes Two New Members

The Crouse Health Board of Directors has appointed two new directors.