Transforming Mental Healthcare: Sheridan Memorial Hospital’s Growing for You Campaign
Sheridan Memorial Hospital is making remarkable strides in addressing Wyoming’s critical mental health needs through its Growing for You Campaign. As discussed in a recent episode of Public Pulse hosted by Floyd Whiting, Chief Development Officer Cody Sinclair and Foundation Director of Philanthropy Liz Dearcorn shared the progress of this transformative initiative. The campaign is funding a new Behavioral Health Unit, a vital step toward providing accessible, comprehensive mental health care in Sheridan County and beyond.
Wyoming’s mental health crisis
Wyoming faces a significant mental health crisis, with a 2022 statistic revealing that 32% of adults experiencing anxiety or depressive disorders did not receive needed counseling or therapy, compared to the national average of 28%. The state’s suicide rate, alarmingly 120% higher than the national average, underscores the urgency of this project. The Behavioral Health Unit aims to bridge these gaps by offering crisis stabilization, inpatient care and a robust network of community-based services.
Campaign goals and progress
The campaign, launched in 2023, has a total project goal of $18.9 million, with the Sheridan Memorial Hospital Foundation tasked with raising $8.12 million. Thanks to overwhelming community support, including contributions from local donors, businesses, the state legislature and partners like the Helmsley Charitable Trust, the campaign is just $700,000 short of its goal. A recent $45,000 matching gift from O’Dell Construction has further energized fundraising efforts, encouraging community members to double their impact by donating.
Community collaboration and leadership
Cody Sinclair highlighted the collaborative spirit driving the project: “When you have a whole community come together, and with The Foundation, we have a committee that meets every couple months… it’s been a team effort for sure.” This teamwork extends beyond fundraising, with the hospital forging partnerships with local law enforcement, schools and mental health providers to create a seamless care network. Dr. Michael Kinney, the new psychiatrist at SMH, has already made a significant impact, serving over 300 patients in just six months and reducing Title 25 involuntary commitments.
Impact and vision of the Behavioral Health Unit
Liz Dearcorn emphasized the project’s immediate and future impact: “The community needs the right place, the right department, and the right team to take care of these people going through a mental health crisis. Seeing this all come together, phase by phase, has been absolutely incredible.” The Behavioral Health Unit, now in phase three of four, involves renovating hospital spaces to include six inpatient rooms, a crisis stabilization area and pediatric rooms, ensuring care for all ages.
Project efficiency and community engagement
The project’s rapid progress is a testament to the dedication of the hospital’s team, led by figures like Director of Behavioral Health Brittany Goodwin and Dr. Kinney. By repurposing existing hospital space, costs were reduced from an initial $32 million to a more manageable $18.9 million, making this vision feasible. Community engagement remains central, with tours available to showcase the ongoing renovations and foster continued support.
🎧 Listen to Cody Sinclair and Liz Dearcorn’s full interview on Public Pulse by clicking below.
Sheridan Memorial Hospital invites the community to get involved by donating or scheduling a tour to see the progress firsthand. Contact The Foundation at 307.673.2418 or visit sheridanhospital.org/foundation to contribute to this life-changing initiative. Every donation, no matter the size, is a step toward a stronger, healthier Sheridan County.
