From left to right: Kara Fort accepting on behalf of Health Heroes Winner Bonnie Steffens (Adult Professional), Jonathan Harris (Youth Volunteer), and Rita Ruhter (Adult Volunteer). Representatives of Hiatus Ranch (Organization Winner) were unable to attend the awards ceremony
Jonathan Harris chose to promote mental health for his senior project and showcased leadership skills through organizing a pickleball tournament called Project A.C.E., which stands for ask, care, and encourage.
The pickleball tournament, held in September during National Suicide Prevention Month, consisted of multiple events over a two day span. This included a young adult tournament and a larger main event with over 60 pickleball players. During the events, mental health booths were set up to educate the community on mental health resources available in the region.
Jonathan showed incredible courage by sharing his own mental health journey in front of the large crowds at the tournament. His senior project also raised money for the Optimal Brain Cancer Critical Impact Foundation, which provides free microcurrent neurotherapy services for people ages 12 to 24. This type of therapy can help individuals struggling with anxiety, ADHD, and PTSD, among other conditions.
Jonathan's passion to promote mental health awareness continues beyond his senior project. His nominator, Tennille Kober, states, "I am extremely proud of Jonathan. Over the summer and his school year, I have seen an immense amount of confidence emerge from him."
Rita Ruhter is an advocate for suicide prevention through the mental health awareness organization Jake Ducks.
The organization was founded to honor her son Jake and promote small and intentional acts of kindness that can make a difference in the lives of others.
Since 2022, Rita has given out over 2000 Jake Ducks as a way to raise awareness for suicide prevention.
So far, Jake Ducks have visited 19 U.S. states and 15 countries. People are encouraged to take the rubber ducks, write a message of hope on the bottom, and give them to friends, family, and others in need of a bright spot to their day. Rita is a frequent presence at events throughout the Magic Valley, helping high school students, and setting up the Jake Ducks booth at high school sporting events. Through the Jake Ducks Instagram page, people post pictures of the ducks on their travels, on their quest to spread messages of hope.
Bonnie Steffens is a skilled nurse practitioner and migraine specialist known for her exceptional dedication and compassionate care. Her medical practice at St. Luke's Neurology has an impressive 437 five-star reviews for medical excellence and patient care that goes above and beyond.
Bonnie is also known for her medical volunteer work outside of St. Luke's. She dedicates part of her time to providing care free of charge at the Wellness Tree Clinic in Twin Falls, Idaho.
In that capacity, she talks with patients about illness prevention, promoting good habits, and advising patients to protect their health through good nutrition, sleep, and self-care. Her dedication to empowering patients with the knowledge and tools they need to live healthier lives is inspiring. Every day, she shows a deep commitment to improving the overall well-being of the community.
One of her chronic migraine patients states that Bonnie is a "constant source of support." The patient also said that, "Bonnie not only provided physical relief, but also took the time to expand my health education. She makes me feel as if I am her only special patient, but I know others feel the same way."
Located in Shoshone, Idaho, Hiatus Ranch is a non-profit organization dedicated to free suicide prevention and rehabilitation services for veterans, active duty service members, and first responders.
Suicide is now the second leading cause of death for post-9/11 veterans. Hiatus Ranch was founded by a veteran and suicide attempt survivor to help fill the gap in suicide prevention services for these vulnerable populations.
The ranch offers retreats to these individuals that need time in their lives to regroup, re-energize, and reset. This is done through equine-assisted therapy, service animal training, recreational activities, and handicrafts. Participants get an understanding of what it's like to work on a ranch through chores and field trips. A licensed psychiatrist is also directly involved, offering talk therapy while participating in ranch chores. The program is goal-centered and offers check-ins after retreat completion.
Here at SCPHD, we want to express our immense gratitude for the 2025 Health Heroes, and all Health Heroes working hard every day to make their communities safer, more connected, and healthier. Thank you all!
Read about the 2025 Health Hero winners here.
Read about the 2024 Health Hero winners here.
Read about the 2023 Health Hero winners here.
Read about the 2022 Health Hero winners here.
For more information, email scphd@phd5.id.gov or call (208) 737-5900.