President's Message

Dear Colleague,

“Be the change you want to see in the world.”
− Gandhi

As I join Blue Shield of California Foundation and its talented staff, it is abundantly clear that we are living in interesting times.  Implementation of national health reform is in full swing nationally and here in California.  This law has the potential to dramatically improve access to quality care for all Californians.  Its success, however, depends on our collective efforts over the next few years to make sure the promise of coverage expansion is realized. We plan to build on our significant investments in community clinics over the past few years to help them – along with the broader health care safety net – realize the full potential of health reform.

Beyond that, I am eager to build on a history of core support for shelters and the successful initial launch of the Strong Field Project to support efforts to end domestic violence in California at this critical time.  Our partners and grantees have made tremendous progress in strengthening their organizations and building new networks as they weather the financial storms created by uncertainty in state and federal funding.  As the largest private funder of domestic violence services in the state, we are steadfast in our commitment to this vital issue.

Californians will always remain at the center of our mission.  We’re working toward a future where all Californians have access to quality health care, and no one experiences domestic violence.  Our policy work is informed by the “real world” experiences of clinic and shelter leadership.

Finally, I understand that when we make progress, it will be together.  I encourage you to share your ideas and questions with me in the weeks and months ahead as we take the next steps on our journey. Follow me on Twitter, where I will keep you posted on our work and share other relevant information.  I look forward to working with each of you.

Warm regards,

Peter

Peter Long
President and CEO
Blue Shield of California Foundation 
Peter.Long@blueshieldcafoundation.org
 
 

(July 28, 2010)