Community Engagement Monthly Report: January 2026

Essentia Health is a Proud Sponsor of the Beargrease Sled Dog Marathon in Duluth

Established in 1980, the marathon brings the community together and draws an estimated 600 attendees each year. This premier sled dog race includes checkpoints and road crossings that are easy for the public to access. More than 400 volunteers help make the event happen each winter.

St. Joseph’s Medical Center Hosted Health Care Day for the Local Leadership Group

Blue Ox Leadership Group members spent the day learning about health care leadership and operations. The visit included a discussion on leading in health care, followed by a panel on public health and mental health. Participants also toured the cardiac catheterization lab, facilities department, supply chain, and an ambulance for a behind-the-scenes look at the teams working together every day to provide high-quality patient care.

Supporting Local First Responders

Essentia Health partnered with the Breezy Point Police Department to help secure funding for a LUCAS 3 device, which delivers chest compressions during cardiac emergencies. The department said the additional device ensured one was available for each call, and the new equipment was used within a week of being received. Essentia Health is grateful for the opportunity to support local first responders and help ensure life saving tools are available when every second counts.

Volunteers in Action

The pharmacy team served dinner at the Brainerd Sharing Bread Soup Kitchen, with food prepared by the Nutritional Services Department. Thank you to everyone who gave their time and effort to support the community.