Project Access-East Tennessee

08/26/2026

Today, we recognize Women's Equality Day and the women who work every day to make a difference in our community. At AMPA, almost our entire staff is made up of women who bring their knowledge, compassion, advocacy, and dedication to the work of helping patients access the healthcare they need.

We believe that access to healthcare is part of building a community where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. Today, we're proud to celebrate the women behind the mission and the impact they make every day.

08/21/2026

✨Meet the Mission: Erica✨

Meet Erica, one of AMPA's Care Coordinators. In her role, she helps uninsured patients navigate the healthcare system and connects them with the specialty care they need. For Erica, the heart of the work is removing the barriers that can keep someone from getting the care they need. Sometimes, that starts with simply having someone who will listen, advocate, and help them figure out what comes next.

One of the moments that has stayed with Erica is seeing the relief on a patient's face when they realize that someone is truly willing to help. As she puts it, “Even the things that may feel like small steps to us can be life-changing for someone else.” Knowing she can help someone access care they didn't think was possible is what makes her work so rewarding.

And when she's not helping patients find their next step? You might find her enjoying a Pumpkin Spice Latte or Chai Latte.

We're proud to have Erica as part of the AMPA team and grateful for the difference she makes every day.

08/18/2026

We are incredibly grateful to the Northeast Tennessee Medical Alliance for its generous donation to AMPA’s Patient Assistance Program. This support helps patients overcome practical barriers to care, including transportation, medications, and other essential needs.

Thank you for partnering with AMPA to ensure that access to healthcare starts here, in our community. Your generosity makes a meaningful difference in the lives of the patients we serve.

08/17/2026

Access starts with us. This National Nonprofit Day, we're celebrating the power of community and the impact nonprofits have on the lives of those they serve.

At AMPA we believe access to healthcare starts with more than an appointment, it starts with people. Through the support of healthcare providers, community partners, donors, and advocates, we're able to help connect uninsured individuals with the care they need.

Thank you to everyone who helps make access possible. Together, we're building healthier communities, one connection at a time!

08/14/2026

✨ Meet the Mission: McKenna ✨

What excites McKenna most about AMPA's future is the organization's continued commitment to making healthcare accessible for uninsured and underserved individuals throughout our community. She's inspired by the way AMPA brings together local healthcare providers and community partners to remove barriers to care, knowing that even the smallest contribution can help change someone's life.

To McKenna, community means people coming together with compassion, trust, and a shared commitment to helping one another succeed. When asked why someone should support Project Access, she shared that every contribution, whether through time, resources, or advocacy, helps ensure individuals receive the care they need while creating healthier families and stronger communities.

This year, Mckenna is focused on making more meaningful memories with friends and family, guided by their favorite quote: "Be where your feet are." A reminder to be fully present, cherish the moments that matter most, and not let tomorrow steal today.

08/10/2026

08/07/2026

✨ Meet the Mission: Pam ✨

From the very beginning of their career, Pam knew she wanted to do work that was meaningful, purposeful, and made a difference. That desire to help others is what led her to Project Access, where they find purpose in connecting individuals to medical care they may not otherwise be able to receive.

To Pam, AMPA's mission is about serving others with compassion, kindness, and respect while taking the time to listen and build trust with the people and communities we serve. When asked what she wished more people knew about Project Access, her answer was simple: that this incredible resource exists. Her hope is that more people become aware of the program so those in need know that help is available.

Outside of work, Pam says their faith is what keeps them motivated each day. And for a fun fact? She was once crowned her middle school's Hula Hoop Champion—a title they still wear proudly, even if the trophy has long since disappeared!

08/01/2026

A promise to care is more than words—it's action.

This National Promise to Care Day, we're grateful for the providers, volunteers, donors, and community partners who make compassionate healthcare possible. Every gift to Appalachian Mountain Project Access helps remove barriers to care and brings hope to a neighbor in need.

Join us in keeping that promise. Donate today: https://givebutter.com/ampa-is-turning-20 💙

07/27/2026

Every great journey ends with a story worth telling.

As the home of the International Storytelling Center in Jonesborough, Washington County reminds us that stories have the power to connect communities, preserve history, and inspire hope. As Appalachian Mountain Project Access celebrates 20 years of service, we're reminded that our story has been written one patient, one partnership, and one act of compassion at a time.

For our final stop on the Road to Access, we're proud to recognize Johnson City Community Health Center, one of AMPA's top referring providers. Their commitment to connecting patients with the care they need has helped strengthen our mission and expand access to specialty healthcare throughout our region.

Over the past several months, this journey has taken us through the communities we serve, highlighting the organizations, providers, and partners who make our work possible. While every county has its own unique story, one message has remained the same: access to healthcare is strongest when communities work together.

As we close this chapter of our Road to Access, we thank every healthcare provider, community partner, volunteer, donor, and advocate who has helped shape AMPA's first 20 years. The road doesn't end here. Together, we'll continue writing the next chapter; one partnership, one referral, and one patient at a time.
Thank you for traveling with us.

07/24/2026

Today is International Self-Care Day! Self-care isn't just about taking time to relax; it's also about prioritizing your health. Whether it's scheduling a checkup, staying active, taking your medications, or simply taking a moment to recharge, every small step supports your overall well-being. Take care of yourself today. You deserve it!