Hailey Baker had envisioned herself moving to Colorado ever since childhood. Born in Florida and raised in Tennessee, she had never visited the state but always sensed a special connection. “I feel like I was just drawn here,” she said. Seven years ago, her dream came to fruition when she moved to the Colorado mountains.
Now settled in Glenwood, Hailey has built a life that reflects her passion for both helping others and enjoying all that the mountains have to offer. She currently works as a Surgical Scheduling Post-Op Liaison at Vail Health’s Howard Head Sports Medicine clinic in Basalt, where she coordinates physical therapy appointments for patients undergoing surgery.
Outside of work, she enjoys hiking local trails, reading, dog-sitting for coworkers, and spending time at home with her two cats, Finley and Falcon. “It’s been my dream, but it’s definitely a tough place to live financially,” Hailey shared.
Facing an Unexpected Hardship
This past August, financial pressure came to a head when unexpected car issues made it extremely difficult for Hailey to pay rent, leaving her feeling uncertain and vulnerable. The constant stress was taking a toll on her mental health. “I was so nervous, and it just made me feel sick all the time trying to figure it out.”
She remembered learning about Vail Health’s Employee Support Fund, which provides financial assistance to employees facing unexpected and severe hardships, at an employee town hall meeting a few years earlier.
Initially, she assumed the process would be complicated and time-consuming. Hailey also struggled with admitting she needed help. Despite her hesitation, she decided to apply and found the online process to be quick and seamless; she was approved within a few hours. “It wasn’t a burden whatsoever. I just had to ask.”
Employee Support Fund Provides Relief
The fund helped cover Hailey’s rent that month, easing her stress and allowing her to focus on work without constantly worrying about how she would make ends meet. With the weight lifted off her shoulders, Hailey now feels a deep sense of gratitude to the benefactors who contribute to the Employee Support Fund, making this support possible.
“I’ve always been impressed with Vail Health’s work-life balance and how the organization shows it genuinely cares about its employees. This was the icing on the cake,” Hailey said. “It was amazing to have that assistance available and to be supported by so many people who don’t necessarily know me. It’s a huge gift to anyone who may find themselves in a situation like mine.”
It was wonderful to know people were in my corner, helping me through a challenging time. Thank you to everyone who has supported the Employee Support Fund.” Hailey Baker