The Health Foundation was formally established in January 1999 with initial assets of approximately $60 million from the sale of Central Massachusetts Health Care, Inc. (CMHC), a physician-initiated, not-for-profit health maintenance organization (HMO) to a for-profit company. The trustees of CMHC envisioned a philanthropic organization dedicated to improving the health of the people in the region as a fitting legacy to the physicians who founded and then supported the original organization since 1977.
As a health conversion foundation, The Health Foundation is bound to use its assets to continue serving a similar purpose and population, or geographic area, as its predecessor organization.
Worcester physician Dr. Wayne Glazier served as founding board chair, guiding The Health Foundation through its formative years. Dr. Jan Yost was appointed as the founding President and CEO in 1999 and led the Foundation for nearly 23 years, retiring in 2023. Under her leadership, The Health Foundation awarded more than $50 million in grants and grew its assets from $60 million to $96 million. Dr. Yost’s approach focused on measurable outcomes and policy advocacy, earning her national recognition, including the Terrance Keenan Leadership in Health Philanthropy Award from Grantmakers In Health. Both Drs. Glazier and Yost were instrumental in shaping The Health Foundation’s mission and strategic direction, emphasizing sustainable impact through policy change.
When it converted from CMHC, the Foundation intentionally sought to retain the plan’s tax-exempt status as a 501(c)4 organization to retain the capacity to lobby. The Foundation’s ability to lobby has been strategically woven into its grantmaking, most notably the Synergy Initiative, in which advocacy and lobbying are utilized as tools to aid in sustaining the projects.
The Health Foundation Fund, Inc.
In 2000, The Health Foundation created The Health Foundation Fund as a 501(c)3 fundraising affiliate to support the purpose and mission of The Health Foundation through donations, memorial contributions and gifts of life insurance.
A Catalyst for Change
In 2024, The Health Foundation of Central Massachusetts celebrated 25 years. Take a look back through 25 years of investing in the health of our region.
“By agreeing to sell this plan and turn over the proceeds to the foundation, they leave a legacy that will benefit this community forever.”
John Powell, president and CEO, Healthsource CMHC
Worcester Telegram & Gazette, February 10, 1996