Endowment Established to Support Behavioral Health

A Lifeline for Mental Health Care in Teton County

Behavioral health remains one of the most underfunded areas in healthcare—despite its critical role in community well-being. Services like psychiatry, therapy, and crisis care often operate at a loss due to low reimbursement rates, workforce shortages, and a high volume of uncompensated care. Yet their impact is profound, preventing crises, improving quality of life, and promoting equity

In response, St. John’s Health named behavioral health a top priority in its 2024 Strategic Plan, expanding access to outpatient therapy and child and adolescent psychiatry. But providing this care—especially in a rural setting—requires more than clinical resources. It needs long-term financial backing.

To help meet that need, St. John’s Health Foundation established the Behavioral Health Endowment. Seed-funded by Alison and Lewis Lee through The Childress Foundation, and supported to date by Connie Kemmerer, the Kemmerer Foundation, and Noa and Ted Staryk, the endowment is a permanent fund that will generate sustainable revenue for psychiatry, counseling, and preventative services.

“This endowment allows us to focus on what matters most—consistent, compassionate care—without worrying about how we’ll keep the doors open,” said Lindsay Long, Administrator and Service Line Leader of Behavioral Health and Psychiatry.

Philanthropy is also expanding access. A $245,240 grant from the Community Foundation of Jackson Hole, along with funding from St. John’s Health Foundation, will underwrite adult psychiatrist Dr. Leah Fortson’s first three years of practice. Starting in October 2025, Dr. Fortson is expected to conduct more than 1,800 visits in her first year, with increased access for non-English speakers through interpretation services.

These investments are building the foundation for a stronger, more resilient behavioral health system in Teton County. As Lindsay put it, “With community support, we’re making mental health care not just available—but sustainable.”

Dr. Leah Fortson, Adult Psychiatrist, will begin seeing patients in October 2025.