Based on recommendations by the Mayor's Task Force on Lincoln General Sale Proceeds, the Community Health Endowment (CHE) of Lincoln was created on August 24, 1998. The goal of the CHE is to make Lincoln, Nebraska the healthiest community in the nation.

According to the Lincoln Municipal Code 4.16 (14K pdf), the CHE fund shall "consist of the cash proceeds realized by the City of Lincoln from the sale of Lincoln General Hospital on October 31, 1997. Monies in the fund shall be used for the purpose of funding health-related programs or projects which further the health, safety, or welfare of the citizens of the City of Lincoln, and for no other purpose."

A 15-member Board of Trustees provides general supervision and control of the CHE. The Board annually prepares and submits a proposed budget to the Lincoln City Council. The Board of Trustees sets funding priorities on an annual basis. According to the Mayor's Task Force Report, Creating the Healthiest Community in the Nation (197K pdf), funding priorities are to be based on "extensive review and thoughtful consideration of current community health priorities, local data, anticipated trends, and community perception."

The CHE also uses the following guiding principles to shape funding recommendations:

• To operate the CHE in a manner consistent with pursuing the Definition of Health and Vision for a Healthier Lincoln.

• To promote and provide leadership in understanding community health priorities and determining the community needs to be met.

• To utilize CHE funds to leverage other resources which will improve community health.

• To promote health behaviors and support increased community attention to prevention and wellness.

• To maintain trusting and collaborative relationships with other community organizations and agencies who are dedicated to the areas of health, education, and human services.

• To evaluate the results of each expenditure to assure that desired results have been accomplished.