Service Integration’s Purpose

Fall emerges and ushers in a new season. Leaves start to change in color and begin to fall. Transformation ensues.

For Kim Dwyer, a professional transformation has begun.

On Sept. 14th, Dwyer joined Santiam Hospital & Clinics and Clinics as the new Santiam Service Integration Coordinator. Dwyer has a Bachelor’s of Arts in Psychology with a minor in social sciences. Before joining Santiam Hospital, Dwyer was a Juvenile Probation Officer with Polk County Juvenile Department for 23 years.

Dwyer’s background also includes 23 years’ experience with the Service Integration program. Dwyer began attending Service Integrations meetings in 1998 in Polk County. She is familiar with the model and process.

“Having sat on Service Integration for so long I have a feel for the model and how it runs,” Dwyer said. I also have the boots on the ground experience as far as the advocate piece for the families. I am not afraid to keep pushing when I hear “no” or think outside of the box.”

Melissa Baurer, Santiam Hospital & Clinics and Clinics Program Director of Disaster Services and Community Engagement and previous Santiam Service Integration Coordinator, hand selected Dwyer.

“Kim and I have known each other since 2009 when I started to attend Service Integration meetings. I know she is a strong individual, determined, and challenges the system; she asks questions. To continue to improve and expand the program we need someone who will do all of those things. I know we are in good hands,” Baurer said.

Dwyer’s decision to make a professional career change after 23 years as a juvenile probation officer was driven by her desire for hometown connection.

“I wanted to work in my own community and be close to home,” Dwyer said. “I wanted to see daily impact in the area that I live in. After my son was born, I wanted more roots and connection. School is the heart of a community and with him in school I wanted to be more involved.” Dwyer’s son, Jackson, is 10 years-old and attends the North Santiam School District.

After living in the Canyon for 18 years, and as the new Service Integration Coordinator, Dwyer looks forward to expanding her ties to the area.

“I look forward to strengthening connections with agencies that I’m already familiar with and learning about new ones. I want to help my own community and make sure needs are met,” Dwyer said.

A deep sense of connection in her personal life also fuels Dwyer to be the best version of herself for the people who matter most to her.

“I draw inspiration from the women in my circle who keep going. They have all had some kind of setback, but they do not give up. They get right back in the saddle,” Dwyer said. “My son Jackson, he inspires me with his bravery and endurance in spite of his medical challenges. My husband, who is a correctional sergeant, he is a great dad who even after working a 16 hour shift gets up early to take Jackson to school.”

Dwyer is excited for what the future holds.

“Professionally, I look forward to continuing the amazing work that Service Integration has accomplished over the last four years in the Canyon. On a personal note, I’m excited to spend more time with my family and hopefully leave a legacy of service for my son that reflects the importance and value of giving back,” Dwyer said.

Santiam Hospital & Clinics and Clinics is looking forward the continued growth of the Service Integration program.

NOTE: The purpose of the Service Integration Program is to facilitate collaboration among community partners to provide coordinated resources and information for individuals and families. These are agency and community partners expediting solutions by matching resources to clearly defined needs, while avoiding duplication of services.

Service Integration is a partnership between Santiam Hospital & Clinics and Clinics, school districts, faith groups, non-profits, social service agencies, local clubs, government agencies, businesses, and community members. The Service Integration Teams will meet monthly to network, share resources, discuss local needs, and find solutions. Each team will be unique to its community.

If you are interested in learning more about Service Integration in the Santiam Region please contact the Service Integration Coordinator Kim Dwyer at 503-769-9319 or email kdwyer@santiamhospital.org. She can add you to the email list in order to stay informed of meeting reminders, team member funding requests, and the Service Integration meeting recaps.