Building Opportunity Through Partnership: Chinook and Skagit Regional Health
Strong community partnerships do not happen by accident. They are built through shared values, mutual respect, and a belief that everyone has something meaningful to contribute. Chinook’s partnership with Skagit Regional Health reflects all of that and more. Through contracted Grounds Maintenance Services, inclusive employment opportunities within the hospital, and leadership representation on Chinook’s Board of Directors, this collaboration shows what is possible when organizations commit to equity and opportunity together.
As a Public Hospital District, Skagit Regional Health values working with a local, mission-driven partner that is rooted in the community it serves. Chinook’s Grounds Maintenance team supports the hospital campus with consistent care, attention to detail, and pride in their work. According to Bill McCann, Director of Inpatient Plant Operations and Safety Officer, the partnership has made a noticeable difference. “The quality of work and attention to detail has really improved as we work together to better partner between Skagit Regional Health and Chinook Enterprises,” he shared. “The grounds are looking great. The Chinook team is fantastic, and their workers are wonderful to have on our campus.”
Inside the hospital, Chinook jobseekers are employed within Food Services, contributing to daily operations such as food preparation and dishwashing. Regional Director of Food Services Karla Dills has seen firsthand how supported employment strengthens both productivity and workplace culture. She shared that Chinook customers “add energy, dedication, and pride in their work, and they strengthen the culture of our department.” Watching individuals grow in confidence while becoming valued members of the team has been, in her words, “incredibly rewarding.”
Chinook’s support model plays a key role in that success. Employment Specialists work alongside hospital leadership and staff to support learning, communication, and long-term retention. This collaborative approach benefits both the employee and the employer, creating workplaces where expectations are clear and people are supported as they build skills and independence. Karla noted that Chinook’s ability to support both the individual and the employer is what makes the partnership work so well.
That sense of belonging is echoed by Chinook customers themselves. Ramon, who works in Food Services, shared, “I like it here, everyone is friendly. I like helping out as I can.” James expressed pride in his role, saying, “I like my job very much. I plan to keep it for a long time… I am proud of my job, and I am proud to work here.” Their words reflect the real impact of inclusive employment, not just on individuals, but on the broader community.
Beyond daily operations, the partnership extends into service and vision. Karla also serves on Chinook’s Board of Directors, allowing her to support the organization’s mission at a deeper level. “Serving on the Chinook board has been equally rewarding,” she shared, noting her appreciation for an organization that is “truly changing lives by creating pathways to independence and opportunity.” From campus grounds to hospital kitchens to board leadership, this partnership demonstrates how aligned values can create lasting community impact.
