McCook, Neb. – Community Hospital proudly hosted a Community Open House at the newly completed ROOTS Apartment Complex, drawing an impressive crowd of over 300 attendees across four scheduled showings. Guests included Community Hospital staff, donors, board members, providers, and local community members, all eager to see the innovative housing initiative designed to attract and support medical students and healthcare professionals in McCook.

Troy Bruntz, Community Hospital President & CEO, and Lori Beeby, Vice President of Support Services, shared the vision, collaboration, and dedication that brought the ROOTS project to life. Lori emphasized the incredible teamwork behind this initiative, recognizing the many individuals and departments whose commitment made such a large-scale project possible. She congratulated everyone for their countless hours of effort and unwavering support.

The event also featured a ribbon-cutting ceremony led by the McCook Chamber of Commerce, with Sarah Schneider marking a significant milestone for the project.

“ROOTS is more than housing—it’s about planting roots in our community,” said Bruntz. “This project ensures that future healthcare professionals feel welcomed and supported as they begin their careers, hopefully in rural Nebraska.”

“I’m so proud of what we’ve accomplished together,” said Beeby. “This project reflects the heart of Community Hospital—teams coming together with a shared purpose. Thank you to every person and department who contributed your time, talent, and energy to make ROOTS a reality.”

For more information about ROOTS, visit: https://chmccook.org/locations/roots-student-housing.

What is ROOTS?
ROOTS, Rural Opportunities Offering Tomorrow’s Success, is an innovative housing project developed by Community Hospital to address a critical challenge facing rural communities: attracting and retaining healthcare professionals. By offering comfortable, community-driven living spaces for medical students, interns, and residents, ROOTS helps ensure that future providers experience the benefits of rural life while completing their training.

About the Project
Located in the heart of downtown McCook, ROOTS features 12 state-of-the-art apartment units equipped with modern furnishings, high-speed internet, and dedicated study areas. The complex is designed to foster academic success and personal well-being, while encouraging students to immerse themselves in rural healthcare and community life. This investment represents a bold commitment to the future of healthcare in southwest Nebraska, ensuring patients continue to receive high-quality, compassionate care from well-trained professionals who understand and value rural communities.