Lane County Public Health and the County Board of Commissioners (acting as Health Board) have honored an individual and an agency for excellence in public health.
Jack Tripp, Executive Director of the Eugene Mission and HIV Alliance received the awards for improving the overall quality of life for all residents.
Dr. Jocelyn Warren is Lane County Public Health Manager. She says Jack Tripp is recognized for transforming the Mission from a traditional shelter into a wellness–focused program.
“Not just food and beds, and they do that—they do over 800 meals a day,” Warren says. “But they also are able to provide intensive case management, connect people with other housing options, get them into drug treatment or whatever counseling they may need.”
HIV Alliance was honored for their work in support and prevention of HIV-AIDS
“This past year, they also responded to two HIV outbreaks in our community that were especially difficult,” Warren added.
The Excellence Awards are voted on by the entire Lane County Public Health staff and bestowed during National Public Health Week.