Giving Compass' Take:

• Exponent Philanthropy highlights the work of Janell E. Ray, a leading innovator in transformative health philanthropy across rural America.

• What are you doing to support underserved communities in rural areas? How are you double-checking that your giving is supporting equitable initiatives in health philanthropy?

• Read more about the critical need for improved healthcare in rural areas during COVID-19.

In rural communities with little philanthropic history and endemic, embedded poverty, Janell E. Ray has quickly established two foundations as leaders in health innovation and nonprofit capacity building.

Janell serves as CEO of the Pallottine Foundation of Huntington and Executive Director of the Pallottine Foundation of Buckhannon, two foundations in West Virginia that continue the caring legacy of the Pallottine Missionary Sisters.

The Pallottine Foundation of Buckhannon advances transformative initiatives that promote healthy lifestyles.

Their Healthy Communities Initiative provides support to health-focused nonprofits for continuing or enhancing existing projects, as well as developing new project offerings.

Janell is a great example of how philanthropy can be shaped by those from different backgrounds. Her long career in finance and operations bridges the corporate and nonprofit worlds.

She has worked internationally and domestically in the energy industry, held finance and development roles in faith-based higher education institutions, and served in a variety of positions in Catholic parishes, schools, and organizations, including Catholic Charities.

Janell is great at partnering and never thinks she has the answer. Her empathy for her rural communities is palpable. She demonstrates how to combine faith, strong analytical skills and listenership in service to some of the most challenged communities in Appalachia.

Janell is a finalist for Exponent Philanthropy’s 2020 Outsized Impact Award, honoring an individual whose style of philanthropy achieved greater-than-expected results.

Read the full article about health philanthropy in rural areas at Exponent Philanthropy.