February, 2026
Service Awards
We celebrated many years of dedicated service this past February at the Corporate Office. Below are photos of those who attended the event. Once again, we extend a big thank you for your continued commitment and the many contributions you have made over the years.
Group Photos (left to right):
5 Year: Ron England, Lauren Grindstaff, Vince Howard, Hope Salyers, Christina Stike & Rutendo Bwawa
10 Year: Misty South & Jason Hayes
15 Year: Della Sproles
25 Year: Kristina Dryden, Stacy Burnette & Lola Dulaney
35 Year: Diana Finlay
PLEASE CLICK IMAGE TO SCROLL
Spreading Valentine’s Cheer in Hawkins County
Each February, the team at Frontier Health’s Hawkins County office takes time to share a little extra love with members of the community. As part of a growing tradition, staff create handmade Valentine’s cards for residents of a local nursing home, spreading kindness and cheer during the winter season.
Over the years, this simple act has become a cherished tradition for the team—one they look forward to each February. Staff members gather to craft colorful cards filled with thoughtful messages, kind words, and warm wishes for the residents who receive them.
While the cards bring smiles to those living in the nursing home, the experience is just as meaningful for the staff who create them. It serves as a reminder that even small gestures can have a powerful impact.
Through this heartfelt tradition, the Hawkins County team continues to demonstrate that connection, compassion, and a little creativity can brighten even the coldest winter days.
Frontier Health to Offer CONNECT Postvention Training
Frontier Health will be offering CONNECT Postvention Training on two upcoming dates for staff interested in strengthening their knowledge and response to suicide and other sudden or traumatic losses. The training will be held April 8, 2026, in Kingsport at the Frontier Integrated Care (FIK) location and July 23, 2026, in Johnson City at Turning Point. While the training is not mandatory at this time, staff are encouraged to attend if they are interested in learning more about this important topic.
Postvention refers to the organized response that occurs in the immediate, short-term, and long-term aftermath of a suicide or other traumatic death. Its purpose is to promote healing among those affected while helping reduce the negative impacts that can follow exposure to such events.
The CONNECT Postvention Training is grounded in the social-ecological model, which looks at suicide risk and protective factors across multiple levels—individual, relationship, community, and societal. Participants will explore national best practices while also considering the role of cultural and demographic influences in prevention and response efforts.
The training also highlights areas that are sometimes overlooked, including lethal means safety, safe messaging, and the influence of social media. Through interactive discussion and practical exercises, participants will gain tools to strengthen communication, coordination, and collaboration during difficult circumstances. A strong emphasis is also placed on self-care, recognizing the importance of supporting those who provide this critical work.
Because training seats are limited, staff members who are interested in attending must register through Relias. Employees are encouraged to share this opportunity with colleagues who may benefit from participating.
If you experience any issues registering through Relias, please contact Ashley Sidebottom at asidebot@frontierhealth.org for assistance.
Community Needs Assessment Now Available
Understanding the needs of the communities we serve is at the heart of everything we do. Each year, our team works to gather insight from across Northeast Tennessee and Southwest Virginia to better understand the challenges, strengths, and opportunities that shape our region.
Our 2025 Community Needs Assessment highlights key findings about behavioral health, substance use services, and community resources throughout the area. The report reflects feedback from partners, stakeholders, and community members and helps guide our efforts as we continue working to provide accessible, high-quality care.
This assessment plays an important role in helping us identify gaps in services, recognize emerging needs, and plan for the future. By listening to our communities and analyzing the data, we can make more informed decisions that support individuals and families across the region.
We invite you to explore the full report and learn more about the needs and priorities of the communities we serve. Simply scan the QR code below to download the full Community Needs Assessment.
Together, by staying informed and engaged, we can continue working toward a healthier, stronger community for everyone.
Frontier Industries of Kingsport Earns United Way Trophy
We are proud to recognize Frontier Industries of Kingsport (FIK) for achieving a 100% employee contribution rate during this year’s United Way campaign. Kristie Hammonds recently presented the Frontier Health United Way trophy to the FIK team in appreciation of their incredible generosity and commitment to giving back.
Their dedication reflects the spirit of teamwork and compassion that makes a meaningful difference in our community. Congratulations to the entire FIK staff for this outstanding achievement!
