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CHEWELAH — NEW Health has been named one of PEOPLE’s 2026 Companies That Care.
That places the community health center among 100 organizations nationwide recognized for their commitment to employees, workplace culture, community impact and opportunities for growth. NEW Health ranked 96th on the list.
National recognition reflects local investment in people, career pathways and the future of rural healthcare, according to a NEW Health news release.
“I know firsthand that rural communities are strongest when people can access quality healthcare close to home and see a future for themselves here,” CEO Desiree Sweeney said in the news release.
For NEW Health, this honor is especially meaningful because the work PEOPLE recognized begins here. For nearly five decades, the organization has worked alongside communities across Stevens, Pend Oreille and Ferry counties to keep quality healthcare within reach while creating opportunities for local people to learn, grow and build careers close to home.
“Investing in education, career pathways and professional growth is not simply about filling jobs,” Sweeney said. “It is about strengthening the health, stability and future of the communities we serve.”
PEOPLE highlighted Bridging the Gap, NEW Health’s 10-week paid summer workforce development program, which introduces participants to healthcare careers through hands-on experience, professional development and community connections. The 2026 cohort recently completed the program.
Bridging the Gap is part of NEW Health University, which creates opportunities for students and adults to explore healthcare careers and develop pathways into employment. This locally focused approach helps address rural workforce shortages while allowing people to envision a future in the communities they already call home.
PEOPLE also highlighted the journey of a NEW Health employee who advanced from a janitorial role to a pharmacy technician position. His story reflects a culture that values potential, supports growth and creates opportunities for employees to build lasting careers.
Additionally, NEW Health provides primary medical, dental, behavioral health and pharmacy services throughout Stevens, Pend Oreille and Ferry counties. As a Federally Qualified Health Center, its mission is to promote health and wellness within its communities by providing integrated, open-access healthcare for all.
The recognition reinforces a message that has guided NEW Health for decades: strong communities and strong healthcare systems go hand in hand. By investing in people, expanding access and growing the rural workforce from within, NEW Health is helping ensure that quality care remains close to home for generations to come.
