HERMISTON, Ore.-The Good Shepherd Community Health Foundation (GSCHF) board recently welcomed Jeff Kelso as its newest member.
“I love the fact that the Foundation provides scholarships for local students pursuing medical careers,” said Kelso, of what drew him to the board. “It’s important to grow our own talent, and with family ties here, these students can come back to live and serve. Hopefully, we can keep them in the community for 40 years.”
The GSCHF board is comprised of 15 members from the business and private sectors, serving three-year terms.
“We are eager to welcome Jeff Kelso on the Foundation Board,” said Liz Marvin, Executive Director of the GSCHF. “His experience, leadership, and willingness to get involved will be a great asset in furthering our mission to enhance the quality of life and general health of residents living in the West Umatilla and Morrow County communities.”
Elected to the Hermiston City Council in 2024, Kelso also volunteers with several groups and organizations, and he is a staple at community events.
“I’m always interested in serving the community,” said Kelso, on joining the GSCHF Board. “I’m a hard worker with community connections and a willingness to serve.”
When Kelso, who works as Director of Technology for the Hermiston School District, moved to Hermiston from Western Oregon in 2017, he admits he was a little worried that the small community might be rather insular.
“It was actually the exact opposite,” said Kelso. “I couldn’t believe how great the people were. Hermiston has been so welcoming.”
According to Kelso, his community involvement is no accident, and he traces its origins to 2017 when he first moved to the area, and his wife stayed on the west side of the state until their son finished high school.
“I don’t do well with idle time,” said Kelso of waiting for his wife to join him in Hermiston back in 2017. “I had lots of time on my hands, so I got involved in the community, and it’s been great, really enriching.”
A past-President of the Hermiston Kiwanis Club and 2023-2025 Lt. Governor of the Northeast Oregon Division of Kiwanis, Kelso is also President of Inland Northwest Musicians, a traveling troupe of classical musicians that provide free performances for students around the region, as well as Secretary Treasurer of the Hermiston Amateur Radio Club.
“Community service means giving back to the place that gave you a lot,” said Kelso. “There are so many ways to spend your time now, I choose to be out interacting with people and helping the community.”
When not working or serving the community, Kelso keeps idle time at bay by spending time with his wife, three adult children in the Hermiston, Tri-Cities and Portland areas, and four grandchildren.
More information about the Good Shepherd Community Health Foundation is available online.
