Navigating the healthcare system can be daunting, especially when facing barriers like language, cost, or trust. At United Way Impact 100 partner Vibrant Health, delivering compassionate, comprehensive healthcare isn’t just a mission, it’s a daily commitment. Through a whole-person care model, Vibrant Health ensures that every patient is met with dignity, respect, and resources ready to address both medical needs and other factors that influence health.
“Health outcomes improve when care is respectful, inclusive, and accessible,” said Alex Ruybalid, Director of Marketing and Philanthropy at Vibrant Health. “We strive to understand each patient’s background and lived experience, so they feel safe and empowered in our spaces.”
Patients interact with a team of professionals, including medical providers, behavioral health specialists, and care coordinators, who work together to deliver seamless, whole-person care.
“Whether needs are met within our clinics or through trusted community referrals, we aim to ensure every patient receives the support they need to live a healthy, vibrant life,” said Ruybalid.
For one patient who recently moved to Kansas City, Kan., this approach made all the difference.
“I heard about Vibrant Health from someone at church,” the patient shared. “And that they were able to speak my native language of Spanish.”
Language had been a barrier for the female patient when accessing healthcare, a challenge she often overcame by leaning on friends to find help. At Vibrant Health, she found more than just interpretation–she found genuine care and support.
“They really do care about you. I was facing a cost that I could not pay, and they even helped me apply for aid,” she shared. “It has helped me be a healthier person and someone who cares and is proactive about my health.”
Her story reflects a core principle of the organization: health equity.
“Culturally sensitive and equitable care is not just a value—it’s a daily practice that informs who we hire, how we train, and how we serve. We believe this approach is essential to making a lasting, positive impact on our community’s health,” said Ruybalid.
However, there are many challenges. Clinic closures, provider shortages, and rising rates of chronic illness threaten access to care across the region. Yet through the support of the community, donors and collaborations with partners including United Way Impact 100 organizations El Centro, Happy Bottoms, as well as KanCare, Reach Out and Read, the Unified Government of Wyandotte County, and United Way, Vibrant Health continues to meet those challenges head-on.
With the support of community donors and local partners, Vibrant Health provides about $9M in unreimbursed care each year.
“Their commitment allows us to remove barriers to care and ensure that families across Wyandotte County receive high-quality, compassionate healthcare, regardless of insurance status or ability to pay,” shared Ruybalid. “We’re focused on building a sustainable model that ensures long-term access to essential services. Our goal is to be here for generations to come—delivering the care our community deserves.”
United Way of Greater Kansas City is proud to stand alongside organizations like Vibrant Health, who are driving meaningful change in health outcomes in our community. Learn more about Vibrant Health and how you can support their vital work by visiting here.