Olivia’s Fund at Five Years: A Community Investment That’s Changing Lives

Five years ago, a shared belief that cost should never be an obstacle to mental health care sparked the creation of Olivia’s Fund. Thanks to generous community support, hundreds of individuals and families across Eagle County have received critical behavioral health services.

“Olivia’s Fund has allowed us to focus on what matters most: meeting people where they are and providing care when they need it, without cost as a barrier,” says Chris Lindley, Vail Health’s Chief Population Officer and Executive Director of Behavioral Health.

Olivia’s Fund Has Evolved with Our Community’s Needs

As we mark the program’s fifth anniversary, we are proud to share how Olivia’s Fund continues to grow and adapt to meet the evolving needs of our community, while ensuring that philanthropic investments have the greatest possible impact.

“Over the past several years, new insurance contracts and state-funded programs have expanded access to behavioral health care in ways that were previously out of reach,” explains Chris. “Most notably, the State of Colorado’s iMatter program now provides six free counseling sessions for youth under 18. This increased access, combined with new partnerships that ensure insurance coverage for many behavioral health services, has allowed us to refocus Olivia’s Fund on those facing the greatest financial barriers.”

Olivia’s Fund supports:

• Anyone under 18 who lives or works in Eagle County, regardless of insurance or immigration status.
• Uninsured adults needing financial assistance for outpatient therapy or psychiatry.

By refining eligibility in this way, we have ensured that every philanthropic dollar goes further. With fewer residents requiring extensive direct financial assistance, Olivia’s Fund can now serve more people and sustain the program for years to come.

Each session funded through Olivia’s Fund represents more than a counseling appointment. It is an opportunity for healing, hope, and connection. Because of this support, individuals who might otherwise go without care can take a critical first step toward wellness.

Due in part to Olivia’s Fund and the expanded access it has made possible, Eagle County is now experiencing a historic low suicide rate, representing a more than 66% reduction from previous years.

Looking to the Future

As we look ahead, we are committed to keeping Olivia’s Fund strong, adaptive, and aligned with local needs. The combination of philanthropic support, public funding, and expanded insurance coverage shows what is possible when we work together to build a truly integrated behavioral health system that addresses mental health needs alongside physical needs in the primary care setting.

Thank you for believing in this mission from the beginning and for continuing to make behavioral health care accessible to all. Generosity from people like you has laid the foundation for a healthier, more compassionate community.

To apply for an Olivia’s Fund scholarship, visit vailhealthbh.org/patient-resources/financial-assistance-information/olivias-fund >