Introducing WellLink: A Name That Reflects Our Commitment to Holistic Health and Connectivity

May 29, 2025 at 08:01 AM EDT

The Center for Health Affairs and CHAMPS Align New Brand with Expanded Vision for Community Well-Being

(PRUnderground) May 29th, 2025

The Center for Health Affairs and its affiliate CHAMPS Group Purchasing are proud to announce a significant milestone in our journey as we unveil our new brand, WellLink. This transformation reflects our expanded focus on fostering the health of our communities to include medical, social, and economic well-being.

For over a century, we have been at the forefront of healthcare advocacy, innovation, and collaboration, serving as the collective voice of Northeast Ohio hospitals. As the nation’s first regional hospital association, we have consistently adapted to the evolving landscape of healthcare, ensuring that we continue to serve the needs of our members and our community.

One Organization. Three Divisions. One Shared Mission.
Today, health no longer lives only in hospital corridors or exam rooms. Health lives in homes, schools, and neighborhoods. It is shaped by food security, education, mental wellness, workforce stability, and economic opportunity.

WellLink coalesces our three divisions under our shared mission to improve medical, social and economic health:

WellLink Health Alliance, formerly The Center for Health Affairs, is dedicated to fostering physical, mental, and emotional well-being through advocacy, education, and community impact initiatives.
WellLink Group Purchasing, formerly CHAMPS Group Purchasing, is committed to supporting the economic well-being of organizations by connecting cost-effective, high-quality goods and services to a wide range of industries.
WellLink Innovations, formerly The Essentials Group, will push the boundaries of what is possible in healthcare solutions to help organizations in healthcare and beyond to strengthen and advance their businesses in a competitive, rapidly evolving environment.

WellLink Health Alliance

As the community impact arm, WellLink Health Alliance plays a critical role in advancing the well-being of Northeast Ohio’s residents. Through strategic partnerships and initiatives, WellLink addresses social drivers of health and strengthens the region’s health equity. Signature efforts include workforce development programs, community-based education and training, and targeted research to inform policy and drive measurable outcomes.

“At the heart of our work is a deep commitment to improving the health and well-being of our communities, not just within clinical settings, but in every aspect of life that influences health,” said Kim Byas, Sr., PhD, vice president of community engagement and impact. “From education and housing to food access and workforce development, we understand that addressing social determinants of health is essential to building a healthier future. WellLink reflects that expanded vision.”

WellLink Group Purchasing

WellLink Group Purchasing plays a vital role in advancing our mission by supporting the economic well-being of the organizations we serve. Through cost-saving purchasing agreements and strategic sourcing, we help healthcare providers, businesses, and public agencies stretch their resources further. This impact is made possible not only through the significant savings we deliver, but also through our exceptional account management and personalized service, which sets us apart in the group purchasing landscape.

“Our GPO members can count on the same trusted team, the same excellent level of service, and the same commitment to delivering value,” said Maria Summers, vice president of WellLink Group Purchasing. “This new brand positions our organization for exciting growth while staying true to the values that have always set us apart.”

The People Behind the Purpose

At the core of everything we do at WellLink are the people who bring our mission to life. Our new brand reflects a deep commitment to fostering a culture that empowers, supports, and celebrates our workforce.

“Our new brand is not only a reflection of where we’re headed, but also a recognition of who we are,” said Lesley Forneris, vice president of talent & organizational excellence. “Everything we achieve as an organization starts with our people. When we support our people, we strengthen our ability to deliver on our mission and shape healthier, more connected communities.”

United by Mission, Driven by Purpose
The new brand unifies everything we do under one shared mission: advancing total well-being. Whether we are focused on healthcare, economic vitality, or social health, every part of our organization is driven by a common purpose: to create stronger, more connected people, organizations, and communities.

“We are excited to introduce WellLink as a brand that not only honors our history but also positions us for a dynamic future,” said Brian Lane, president & CEO. “WellLink represents connection, collaboration, and community. It reflects how we link ideas, people, and solutions across every part of the ecosystem that influences health. Most of all, it affirms that everything we do is guided by a single, powerful mission: transforming the well-being of people. We truly are one limitless link.”

About WellLink

Incorporated in 1916, WellLink has a rich history as the nation’s first regional hospital association. Convening 37 hospitals and healthcare organizations with community partners across 10 counties in Northeast Ohio, WellLink is committed to advancing total well-being by connecting people, organizations, and resources across the healthcare, economic, and social sectors. Formerly known as The Center for Health Affairs and CHAMPS Group Purchasing, WellLink brings together advocacy, education, group purchasing, and community impact under one unified mission. With a legacy of more than a century, WellLink continues to serve hospitals, businesses, and communities through innovative solutions that promote better health, greater opportunity, and stronger, more connected systems of care. Learn more at www.WellLinkCommunity.com.

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