Caldwell, Idaho — West Valley Medical Center, as part of HCA Healthcare, announced Thursday that the HCA Healthcare Foundation has awarded a $25,000 grant to the Treasure Valley Family YMCA for a new heart health maintenance program at the Caldwell YMCA location. The funding is part of the HCA Healthcare Foundation’s Healthier Tomorrow Fund, a community impact fund with an initial investment of $75 million focused on addressing high priority community needs.
The grant announcement was made during a check presentation and facility tour at the Caldwell YMCA and aligns with American Heart Month, reinforcing both organizations’ shared commitment to improving community health outcomes.
The grant supports a new program designed to help individuals in the community maintain cardiovascular health after completing cardiac rehabilitation or medical treatment. Through supervised exercise, education and peer support, participants gain the tools and confidence needed to sustain long-term healthy habits.
"This collaboration allows us to extend care beyond the hospital setting," said Dr. Richard Augustus, Chief Medical Officer at West Valley Medical Center. "By partnering with the YMCA, we’re supporting a continuum of care that empowers individuals to actively manage their heart health."
The Caldwell YMCA’s upcoming cardiac and pulmonary fitness program is scheduled to launch in the fall of 2026 with continued collaboration from West Valley Medical Center's Cardiac Services team.
The four-week program includes weekly 60-minute sessions focused on cardiovascular and strength training, lifestyle education and social connection. Participants also receive access to YMCA facilities between sessions to practice skills learned under supervision.
"This program fills an important gap in care," said Erik Bullock, Executive Director of the Caldwell YMCA. "Too often, people finish rehab and aren’t sure what comes next. This partnership provides a safe, supportive environment to continue strengthening heart health and overall wellness."
"As a YMCA program advisor and someone who has personally experienced a heart attack, I understand how difficult the transition out of cardiac rehab can be," added Mary Biddle, Treasure Valley YMCA. "This program creates a bridge, so people aren’t navigating their recovery alone."
Funding the Healthier Tomorrow Fund at the HCA Healthcare Foundation is one example of the many ways HCA Healthcare is making a positive impact in the communities it serves. In 2024, HCA Healthcare provided charity care, uninsured discounts and other uncompensated care at an estimated cost of $4.4 billion. HCA Healthcare also contributed more than $48.5 million to community organizations in 2024. Additionally last year, 21.2% of West Valley Medical Center colleagues alone logged over 3,500 hours of community service.
"HCA Healthcare colleagues are driven by our mission to care for and improve human life," said Virginia Tenpenny, Vice President of Community Engagement at HCA Healthcare. "That mission extends outside the walls of our facilities and into our communities. Partnering with other organizations has always allowed us to unlock possibilities for improving health and well-being."
Find out more information on the HCA Healthcare Foundation website.