Every year, Grand County Rural Health Network recognizes individuals making a meaningful difference in the health and wellbeing of their fellow residents. These modern-day health pioneers help the community through their profession or volunteer service.

This year’s recipients of the Award for Excellence in Health Service are Dane Ruttenberg and Austin Wingate. The community can celebrate the two honorees at the kickoff celebration for the annual Gratitude for Grand fundraiser on Sept. 11 from 6-8 p.m. at KFFR 88.3 FM studios in Fraser.

This event is open to the public, and limited tickets are available online to help raise funds for health-centered programs. While recognizing Ruttenberg and Wingate, attendees can enjoy live music by Rob Drabkin, food and drink.

The awards celebration is the first day of the rural health network’s “Gratitude for Grand: Give a High Five for Health” fundraiser, which lasts until Sept. 26. Community members can recognize each other’s accomplishments by giving out virtual “High Fives” with a donation at GCRuralHealth.org/HighFive or via a QR code on fundraiser posters that will be displayed throughout the county.

The Health Network will recognize each High Five recipient throughout the fundraiser. This recognition can be for anyone who makes a positive impact in the lives of others, including teachers, librarians, first responders, small business owners and many more.

About the Excellence in Health Service winners

In a news release, the rural health network stated it chose this year’s two winners for their leadership, compassion and commitment to the community.

“Their dedication embodies the spirit of this award and reminds us that health is more than just healthcare — it’s about relationships, trust and meeting people where they are,” the network stated.

Dane Ruttenberg

In a news release, the health network stated it chose Ruttenberg because of his decades-long career supporting youth and families. Ruttenberg has served the community as a counselor, educator and coach. He retired in spring 2025 from his role as school counselor for East Grand School District.

In his 30-year career, he has lifted up Grand County youth by supporting their emotional, mental and physical health. He started the first soccer program at Middle Park High School, and served as a counselor and intervention specialist across the East Grand School District. He is supported by his wife Deb Ruttenberg, and they have two 22-year-old twins, Jay and Ethan.

“He has been a driving force behind programs that promote healthy development and strong parent-child relationships, while fostering a supportive environment where every student feels valued and empowered to succeed,” the health network expressed.

Austin Wingate

Chief of Grand County EMS, Austin Wingate, will be honored as a rising star in health and emergency response leadership. Wingate joined the emergency services field in 2006; he has worked in field care and critical care transport and was promoted to leadership in 2024.

The health network states Wingate “leads with a focus on prevention, community connection, and creating systems that put people first … with a consistent goal of making EMS a dependable part of the community safety net.”

During his time as chief, Wingate implemented initiatives such as prehospital whole blood availability in EMS vehicles, as well as expanded car seat safety programs. According to the health network, the department has consistently outperformed state and national clinical benchmarks with Wingate’s innovative and collaborative spirit.  

“His efforts have strengthened cross-agency partnerships, enhanced response times, and ensured high-quality, evidence-based care for the Grand County community,” the network states. “His dedication to service and constant pursuit of excellence continue to improve health outcomes and save lives across the region.”

To purchase tickets for the sixth annual fundraiser Gratitude for Grand: Give a High Five for Health event, which takes place Sept. 11, visit GCRuralHealth.org/highfive.