Projects

Lower Elwha FQHC Initiative

A federally recognized healthcare model in development

FOLS is working to establish a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) — a cornerstone of the U.S. public health system — in the Lower Elwha area.

Impact goals:

  • Reduce barriers to primary and behavioral healthcare

  • Integrate mental health + spiritual wellbeing into everyday care

  • Improve health outcomes for rural and tribal communities

  • Strengthen the community healthcare workforce

Status: Developing partnerships, securing early funding, and actively identifying sites.

This is a public health investment — and a long-term legacy for the region.

Two people holding hands, one appears older with darker skin and grey hair, the other younger with lighter skin and a blue shirt, sitting close together.

Mind-Body Medicine Program

Ten years of free, evidence-based mental health support

Since 2014, FOLS programs have brought healing tools to:

  • Oregon Health Plan medical homes

  • Community clinics in Portland

  • Participants living with trauma, chronic illness, and mental health disorders

Founded on the model of the Center for Mind-Body Medicine, these groups improve:

  • PTSD symptoms

  • Anxiety & depression

  • Pain & stress-related diseases

  • Social connection & community resilience

This is prevention, trauma healing, and public mental health in action.

Group of six diverse people sitting in circle during support group meeting, listening to a woman in white shirt and beige cardigan speaking.