Our Mission
We’re focused on building a healthier Washoe County through advocacy, philanthropy, and education.
The Washoe Medical Alliance (formerly AWCMS—Alliance with the Washoe County Medical Society) was founded in 1947 on the principle of promoting quality medical care and better health for Northern Nevadans.
WMA’s mission has not wavered! Our mission is achieved through our 3 Pillars and:
fundraising activities
health advocacy and education programs
support of community partners that offer health-related services
WMA is fully volunteer-run nonprofit 501c3 organization. Our members include spouses and partners of Washoe County physicians/retired physicians, medical resident and medical student spouses and partners, nonprofit organizations and community members who share in our mission.
We organize events, provide resources, and volunteer to make a positive impact in Washoe County. We are about showing up, building connections, and giving back!
Apply for Funding
Click the button here to download our application. Please respond to the questions on the application and email it to simmi321@yahoo.com.
Our 3 Pillars
Advocacy
WMA provides education on public health initiatives that impact medical practice and community health.
Philanthropy
WMA raises funds to provide financial and service-related support to local nonprofit organizations that deliver valuable health services in our community.
Camaraderie
We provide a genuine and welcoming social and professional network through interest groups, fundraising, community service opportunities, and social events.
If you like building connections and giving back, come be a part of something amazing!
Board of Directors
Our Board members are truly dedicated to the mission of WMA. WMA is recognized by the Community Foundation of Northern Nevada as a 100% Giving Board.
-
Alla Schock
President
-
Josh Mansion
President-Elect
-
Sara Carrea
Secretary
-
Hollie Meier
Co-Treasurer
-
Donna Juell
Co-Treasurer
Our History
Originally established by nurses returning from service in WWII, our organization encouraged and helped Nevada students pursue a career in nursing. A sponsored event raised funds for the first nursing scholarship, awarded in 1949.
In 1951 the first “Doctors’ Wives Rummage Sale” was held to support the continuation of the scholarship program. Every year the Rummage Sale generated funds that were put back into the community.
In the 1970s, our organization established the Community Action Fund (CAF) Committee that began a grant funding application process for local health-related nonprofits to assist with their service needs. Over the years, more than 450 nursing scholarships have been awarded. WMA has established endowments at the University of Nevada, Reno Orvis School of Nursing, and at Truckee Meadows Community College (TMCC) that carry on this tradition, and provide a means to award scholarships every year.
In 2015 WMA created a Health Science Technology scholarship at TMCC to support students training in health technical fields. In 2017 WMA began its own endowment — the AWCMS Endowment Fund — to provide a long-standing and enduring means to continue our mission.
The beloved Rummage Sale ran for 65 years before being retired in 2016. Ever true to its mission — WMA has since continued to host charitable events that raise funds to award scholarships and help local health-related organizations & causes.
WMA has contributed several million dollars to community organizations in Washoe County, encompassing a wide range of community health needs.