Our History

The McCune-Brooks Healthcare Foundation was founded in 1997 to support the various programs of the McCune-Brooks Hospital in Carthage, MO. When the city-owned hospital was sold to Mercy, the Foundation expanded its mission to encompass healthcare initiatives for the Carthage community.

The Foundation is committed to enhancing the health and well-being of the Carthage community. Through strategic investments and collaborative partnerships, we are able to support programs and initiatives that work towards building a healthier community for generations to come.

Our work is two-fold: to provide grants to organizations that align with our healthcare focus mission, and to provide direct support to individuals’ healthcare needs. Our direct support programs consist of:

Pink Ribbons Mammogram Program
Happy Bottoms Diaper Project

OUR MISSION

To promote and support programs, organizations and initiatives that directly contribute to better health and healthy lifestyles for the citizens of Carthage through financial grants and volunteer activities.

STRATEGY

McCune-Brooks Healthcare Foundation uses a dual front approach:

Help organizations and programs to meet immediate needs, and
Help organize and support large initiatives that have ongoing impact in the community.

All those who seek and receive our help should have direct influence on the health and healthy lifestyle choices of the Carthage Community with an emphasis on healthcare, nutrition, programs that promote physical activity and organizations that encourage sound mental health.

Board of Directors

Mark Elliff, Chairman

Mariann Morgan, Vice Chairman

Beth Simmons, Secretary/Treasurer

Pam Barlet

Amy Cole

Tom Flanigan

Jonathan Haffner

Stacey Musche

Patrick Scott

Meet the Team

We are a small but mighty team with a passion for building a healthier community.

Executive Director

Lora Phelps

Born and raised in Carthage, Lora Phelps has deep roots in the community. She and her husband, both graduates of Carthage High School, are proud parents of two children who currently attend Carthage R-9 Schools.

Prior to becoming the Executive Director, Lora spent over 20 years in the legal and wealth management industries. Her leadership experience extends beyond her career, having served on several local boards and organizations, including Vision Carthage, Soroptimist, Lafayette House, and the Carthage Chamber of Commerce. She has also been involved in initiatives that promote social service, culture, and community growth, such as the Missouri Southern Foundation, Jasper County Association for Social Service, and Connect 2 Culture.

An advocate for the growth and success of Carthage, Lora is ready to continue contributing to the growth and success of her community.

lora.phelps@mbhfoundation.com

Director of Creative Services

Leanna Canfield

Leanna, a Carthage native and Carthage High School graduate, brings a wealth of experience to this role.

After high school Leanna receive her Bachelor of Science in Business Education from MSSU and then received her Master of Science in Instructional Technology from NWMSU.

Prior to becoming the Director of Creative Services, Leanna spent five years teaching business and computer classes. She then ventured into entrepreneurship, specializing in creating custom graphic designs, branding, websites, and marketing for small businesses. She also spent one year as the Executive Director of Vision Carthage, a community betterment non-profit. Leanna's passion for marketing is what fuels her mission here at MBH Foundation.

In her spare time, Leanna is a wife to a junior high teacher and coach and mom to three boys.

leanna@mbhfoundation.com