The Challenge of Making A Home in Humboldt
As I was sitting down to write this piece, I saw a story in the Times-Standard about North Coast Ophthalmology closing because the retiring owners have been unable find anyone to take over the practice.
Regular readers of Senior News will be aware that we’ve been tracking the declining medical scene here in Humboldt for some time. It’s therefore timely and heartening to learn of a new program to attract and support incoming professionals in health care, education, government and other sectors behind the Redwood Curtain.
Home in Humboldt is the brainchild of Providence Humboldt CEO Michael Keleman and is intended to help those professionals set down roots and become part of our Humboldt community.
“Home in Humboldt is a communitywide commitment to showcasing the incredible quality of life we offer here on the North Coast,” Keleman said. “We’re partnering with the Greater Eureka Chamber of Commerce and local businesses to help prospective employees see the full picture: not just the opportunity to work in a high-quality healthcare environment, but to live in a place rich with natural beauty, culture and connection.
“We want people to feel supported from the moment they consider Humboldt as home,” he said.
The concierge-style service will provide newcomers with:
• Introductions to local businesses, communities and amenities that match their needs and interests.
• Employment and community involvement opportunities for spouses and partners (this is one that resonates with me — joining nonprofit boards was my gateway to Humboldt).
• Identification of schools best suited to their children’s needs.
• Liaison with Humboldt realtors and rental agencies to find the best housing solutions. All of these goals are designed to help newcomers feel at home in Humboldt soon after landing here.
“It’s a privilege to work alongside a significant number of community leaders to bring Home in Humboldt to life,” said Nancy Olson, CEO of the Greater Eureka Chamber of Commerce. “We believe the program will truly help meet some of the region’s most pressing needs. The momentum is palpable, and we look forward to welcoming more partners to the table.”
Expected to kick off in early 2026 once funding is in place and the first employer partners have signed up, Home in Humboldt will initially provide comprehensive welcome packages to employers to share with prospective employees. Incoming new employees will each receive up to 20 hours of concierge services during their first year, as well as invitations to quarterly events and experiences where they can expand their social networks while learning more about Humboldt and the North Coast region.
It seems fitting to end this with a challenge issued by the League of Women Voters of Humboldt County “to do one thing every day to help make Humboldt County a safe and welcoming place.” To help, email nancy@eurekachamber.com or 707-442-3738.
Pat Bitton lives in Eureka and is a member of the Senior News Community Advisory Council. Email: pbitton@hotmail.com.
