COEUR d'ALENE — The nonprofit Kootenai Health Foundation on Friday night presented Kootenai Health $12.5 million to complete its five-year expansion fundraising campaign.

The check presentation was made during the foundation's annual Donor Reception to thank community donors for their support.

"We’re thankful for the generous gifts given to support the hospital’s growth and proud of the efforts made by our board," said Julie Holt, Kootenai Health Foundation president.

"Because of our community’s support, Kootenai Health is able to continue to meet the health care needs of our growing community."

The Kootenai Health and foundation boards honored Paul Anderson with the Visionary Leadership Award for his service to the foundation and community.

"Paul has played an important role at Kootenai Health and in our community," Kootenai Health CEO Jon Ness said. "It is a pleasure to recognize his contributions to improving health care in northern Idaho by honoring him with the Visionary Leadership Award."

The Visionary Leadership Award honors those whose insightful leadership and innovative thinking significantly improve Kootenai Health and access to health care in our community.

Anderson is the third recipient of this award. Ron McIntire was the second recipient of this award in 2017. John Smith Richards received the inaugural award in 2015.

Prior to serving on the Kootenai Hospital District board of trustees, Anderson served six years on the foundation board. During his tenure, Kootenai Health renewed and expanded its commitment to providing patient-focused care, and ensuring measurably superior quality and safety to the citizens of our region.

Anderson also led the Kootenai Health CEO transition in 2010. Through his exemplary commitment to Kootenai Health and his extensive community involvement, he has advocated for improved and expanded health care for local citizens.

With more than 3,300 employees, Kootenai Health is the largest employer in Kootenai County.

Kootenai provides a comprehensive range of medical services to patients throughout the Inland Northwest.

Services include a 299-bed community-owned hospital, a multi-specialty physician practice with over 200 providers, and specialized care for oncology, cardiology, orthopedics, and women and children.

Kootenai is a community-owned district hospital and is accredited by DNV, holds Magnet Designation for nursing excellence and is a member of the Mayo Clinic Care Network.

The foundation, created in 1983, has been the avenue through which generous members of our community can make donations to improve health care in North Idaho. Since its inception, donors helped build and expand cancer, heart, neonatal, rehabilitation, intensive care and emergency services.

For more information, or to learn more about making a charitable contribution to the foundation, visit kh.org/foundation or call 208-625-4438.