WellCare of Kentucky Celebrates 2026 Community Health Champions at Churchill Downs

Celebrating Community Health Champions

WellCare of Kentucky proudly hosted its seventh annual Community Health Champions Awards on September 10, 2026, at the iconic Churchill Downs. The event brought together 12 exceptional individuals and organizations from across the Commonwealth, honoring their invaluable contributions to removing barriers to healthcare, enhancing health outcomes, and fostering a sense of community well-being.

Corey Ewing, President of WellCare of Kentucky, emphasized the mission shared between the recipients and WellCare, stating, "Today is about recognizing individuals who see a need and respond, who meet challenges with compassion, and who work every day to help their neighbors live healthier, safer, and more hopeful lives." This celebration is not just about awards; it's about a unified purpose of improving healthcare access and opportunities within the community.

The 2026 champions were chosen from hundreds of nominations across various Medicaid regions in Kentucky. Each regional winner received a grant of $3,000, while the statewide Community Health Champion was awarded $5,000. This year’s statewide champion, Kelly Pompilio from the Alexandria Police Department, pioneered the first police social worker program in Kentucky, a groundbreaking initiative that has been replicated in nearly 40 police departments statewide. Her leadership has connected countless individuals facing mental health challenges, substance use, homelessness, and food insecurity with essential resources and support.

Pompilio's influence goes beyond her role in law enforcement; she spearheads numerous community initiatives, including mobile mammography screenings, Easter meal distributions, and an annual cell phone drive aimed at supporting families affected by traumatic events. Her work exemplifies the spirit of the awards, showcasing the impactful and compassionate response to local needs.

The event also featured keynote speaker John Y. Brown III, who spoke passionately about efforts to support underserved communities. This was paired with recorded congratulatory messages from Governor Andy Beshear and Dr. Steven Stack, Secretary of the Cabinet for Health and Family Services, who celebrated the honorees’ contributions to community health.

The regional winners for this year’s awards included:
1. Region 1: Jean Crawford, Murray Calloway County Need Line
2. Region 2: Helen Brown, American Red Cross
3. Region 3: Amanda Jones, Nelson County Schools
4. Region 4: Jennifer Woods, Trammel Creek Extension Homemakers
5. Region 5: Joey Jones, New Vista
6. Region 6: Pam Harper, Kentucky Thorough-Breasts Dragon Boat Racing Team
7. Region 7: Lisa Phelps, Hope's Place Child Advocacy Center
8. Region 8: Pamela Hereford, Johnson County Public Library

Provider categories honored primary care and specialty care contributors. Winners included the Ashland Children's Clinic, St. Elizabeth Health Care, and Marshall Pediatrics. These organizations have consistently demonstrated excellence in care delivery and commitment to improving health outcomes for their communities.

Overall, the 2026 Community Health Champions Awards was a resounding success, uniting those dedicated to enhancing healthcare and fostering compassion within Kentucky's communities. The stories of the winners inspire ongoing efforts to create a healthier and more equitable society, reflecting WellCare of Kentucky’s commitment to its mission of supporting individuals and families in achieving a better quality of life.

For an even deeper look into the exemplary work of these champions and WellCare's initiatives across Kentucky, visit www.wellcare.com/kentucky.