The Gunnison Valley Cares Coalition held its monthly meeting Tuesday, March 23, 2026, at Gunnison City Hall.

Michelle Standley of the Richfield office of Six County Association of Governments spoke to the coalition about a veteran caregiver program and an upcoming resource conference. With guidance from Standley, the caregiver program provides in-home care and support for eligible veterans, including paid caregiver options for family members. There is no current wait list. Veterans must be enrolled in VA health care to qualify. Funding varies based on need, with annual care budgets ranging from about $40,000 to $100,000 per veteran.

The Richfield office will hold a Veteran Resource Conference on April 22, 2026, from 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 82 E. 600 North. Lunch will be provided. The event will feature available services and resources, and all veterans are encouraged to attend. Those planning to eat lunch must register in advance by calling 435-893-0731.

Tiffany Greenhalgh, also with Six County, spoke to the group about aging and caregiver services. The program offers both long-term support through the Aging Waiver and Alternative programs and short-term caregiver support lasting six to 12 months, based on individual needs. Services may include in-home care, housekeeping, medical alert devices, meals and home support to help individuals remain at home.

Additional resources include a Senior Companion Volunteer Program for those 55 and older and a new quarterly caregiver support group. The next support group will meet in person Tuesday, April 14, 2026, at the Richfield office, 82 E. 600 North. Lunch will be provided. RSVP for lunch by calling 435-893-0731. On-site care will be available for loved ones if caregivers need to bring them.

Michael Brooke of Manti spoke to the coalition about a class he is teaching on anxiety and depression. The Nedley Program, described as a holistic health program, is an eight-week course of about two hours per week focused on addressing root causes, including nutrition, lifestyle and toxicity, while promoting overall wellness and resilience.

Brooke said he is looking for opportunities to partner with employers, schools and agencies, offering incentives and virtual options to encourage groups to take the class. He also hopes to include the broader community.

“Every person could benefit from a class like this,” Brooke said.

He said he hopes to offer a survey and advertisement soon.

Community updates

Darren Sheffer of Workforce Services said the agency supports employment opportunities across five counties and offers free job-posting assistance for employers looking for help. He can be reached at 435-893-0015 or at dsheffer@utah.gov.

Gunnison Valley High School is implementing a new PowerSchool registration system for next year’s schedule to encourage interest-based class selection and expand career exploration, including virtual reality. The Hope Squad recently held Hope Week and will soon launch a new commercial at the Casino Star Theatre.

Law enforcement reported a significant increase in mental health-related calls, highlighting the need to better connect officers with local resources.

Gunnison City reminded residents of the April 4 Easter Egg Hunt at 10 a.m. at Gunnison City Park. All children ages 0-12 are encouraged to attend. The event is sponsored by the Gunnison Lions Club and the Gunnison Valley High School swim team.

The city also reported plans for a park project estimated at $900,000. Major funding has been secured, with a groundbreaking planned for fall 2026 and construction expected in spring 2027. The project includes tennis court replacement and playground upgrades.

The Children’s Justice Center will host a fundraiser dinner Thursday, April 16, 2026, along with a silent online auction in recognition of Child Abuse Awareness Month.

Gunnison Valley Hospital reported changes to OB services, with Dr. Kayla Olson serving as the primary provider for women’s health. Two new OB-GYNs, Dr. Sean G. Haskett and Dr. Cameron D. Lowry, will also perform women’s health surgeries.

The hospital is offering a scholarship for high school seniors interested in pursuing a career in the medical field. The deadline is April 13, 2026, for students from Gunnison, North Sevier and Manti. For more information, call 435-528-7246 or email Oakleem@gvhospital.org.

The Sanpete Food Pantry reported that demand remains high, with 60 to 70 families served per distribution and a growing need among senior citizens. Distributions in Gunnison are held the first Thursday of each month from 6 to 7 p.m. and the third Tuesday from 11 a.m. to noon. No one is turned away. Volunteers are needed.

The next meeting will be April 28, 2026, at noon at Gunnison City Hall. All are welcome.