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Trailhead Foundation Appoints First CEO to Expand Pediatric Health Initiatives

  //health-fitness.news-articles.net/content/2026/ .. -ceo-to-expand-pediatric-health-initiatives.html
  Published in Health and Fitness on Monday, February 9th 2026 at 20:50 GMT by Cleveland.com
      Locales: Ohio, UNITED STATES

CLEVELAND, OH - February 10th, 2026 - The Trailhead Foundation, a rapidly growing philanthropic organization dedicated to the health and wellbeing of children in Northeast Ohio, today announced the appointment of Dr. Gary Silbermann as its inaugural Chief Executive Officer. Dr. Silbermann, effective January 2nd, brings over two decades of experience in healthcare leadership to the foundation, poised to guide its expansion beyond grantmaking and into a more proactive role in improving pediatric health outcomes.

The Trailhead Foundation, established in 2023, quickly gained prominence as a significant funding source for pediatric healthcare providers and organizations across the region. Initial efforts have concentrated on strategic grant distribution, channeling over $35 million into vital programs focused on tackling critical issues affecting children's health. These areas of focus include addressing social determinants of health - the non-medical factors like poverty, housing, and education that significantly impact wellbeing - improving access to quality care, and ultimately, bolstering overall health outcomes for children.

However, the appointment of a CEO signifies a pivotal shift for the foundation. Previously operating primarily as a grantmaking entity, Trailhead now intends to become a more direct catalyst for change. While grant distribution will remain a core function, Dr. Silbermann's leadership is expected to foster the development and implementation of innovative programs, partnerships, and advocacy initiatives designed to address systemic challenges within the pediatric healthcare landscape.

"Gary's passion for children's health and his deep understanding of the Northeast Ohio health care landscape make him the ideal leader to guide Trailhead's next chapter," stated Jonathan Bell, Chairman of the Trailhead Foundation's Board of Directors. "We believe his expertise will be instrumental in amplifying our impact and ensuring that every child in our region has the opportunity to thrive."

Dr. Silbermann's credentials are exceptionally well-suited to this undertaking. He most recently served as Senior Vice President and Chief Medical Officer for Summa Health, where he oversaw clinical operations and spearheaded quality improvement initiatives. Prior to that, he held the position of Medical Director for University Hospitals Rainbow Babies & Children's Hospital, gaining invaluable experience in the intricacies of pediatric care delivery. This extensive background gives him a nuanced understanding of the challenges faced by both healthcare providers and the families they serve.

The timing of this appointment is particularly significant. Northeast Ohio, like many regions, is grappling with increasing disparities in children's health, exacerbated by factors such as economic hardship and limited access to resources. The COVID-19 pandemic further amplified these inequities, highlighting the urgent need for targeted interventions. Trailhead Foundation's commitment to addressing social determinants of health is crucial, as these factors often contribute more to health outcomes than medical care alone. For example, food insecurity, unstable housing, and lack of transportation can all create significant barriers to accessing preventative care and managing chronic conditions.

Dr. Silbermann expressed his enthusiasm for the role, stating, "I'm honored to join the Trailhead Foundation and to work alongside its dedicated team and partners to improve the health and well-being of children throughout Northeast Ohio." He is expected to prioritize building strong relationships with community organizations, healthcare systems, and policymakers to maximize the foundation's impact.

Experts predict that Dr. Silbermann will likely focus on several key areas in his initial leadership. These include expanding access to mental health services for children and adolescents, addressing the growing rates of childhood obesity, and improving early childhood education programs. Furthermore, he is anticipated to champion innovative approaches to care, such as telehealth and school-based health centers, to reach underserved populations. The Foundation will likely increase its focus on data-driven decision making, tracking the impact of its investments and adapting its strategies accordingly.

The Trailhead Foundation's trajectory promises to be one of significant growth and impact. With a dedicated board, a strong financial foundation, and now, a seasoned CEO at the helm, the organization is well-positioned to become a leading force in improving the health and wellbeing of children in Northeast Ohio for years to come.