FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 27, 2025
Historic Merger of Betty Jean Kerr People’s Health Centers and
Amanda Luckett Murphy Hopewell Center to Be Celebrated with
Quarter-Mile Long Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony
ST. LOUIS, MO – January 27, 2025 – The historic merger of Betty Jean Kerr People’s Health
Centers and Amanda Luckett Murphy Hopewell Center, legally finalized on November 30, 2024,
marks the culmination of 14 years of strategic planning and collaboration between these two
legacy organizations. The newly unified entity will celebrate this transformative milestone with a
ribbon-cutting ceremony on:
Friday, February 21, 2025
11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Delmar Campus | 5701 Delmar Blvd., St. Louis, MO 63112
This merger combines the strengths of both organizations to better serve the community,
addressing the complex and evolving needs of St. Louis residents. With a mission to provide
comprehensive, equitable, and trauma-informed care, the unified organization has unveiled a
new mission statement:
“Our mission is to enhance the quality of life for all residents of the community by providing
healthcare that is comprehensive, equitable, and trauma-informed, including primary care,
dental, and behavioral health services rooted in compassion, hope, dignity, and cultural
competency.”
Leaders Reflect on This Historic Milestone
Dwayne Butler, Chief Executive Officer, emphasized the significance of this achievement:
“The merger of Betty Jean Kerr People’s Health Centers and Amanda Luckett Murphy Hopewell
Center marked a historic milestone 14 years in the making. This integration united two powerful
legacies built by visionary founders dedicated to uplifting our community’s health. Together, we
are delivering a seamless approach to care by integrating primary health care and behavioral
health services, ensuring that every individual we serve receives comprehensive and
compassionate support. This is a testament to our shared commitment to a healthier future for
all.”
Dr. Ronald Griffin, Chief Operating Officer, shared his thoughts on the strategic vision behind the
merger: “This merger signifies a strategic step forward in integrating health care services to better
serve our patients. With enhanced operational efficiencies and expanded resources, we can now
offer a seamless experience that prioritizes quality care and patient satisfaction. The ribboncutting ceremony is not just a celebration of our combined efforts but a commitment to our future
as one united organization.”
Dr. Moses Waithaka, Vice President of Behavioral Health, highlighted the unique impact on
healthcare delivery: “The merger is a unique opportunity to break down primary and behavioral
healthcare barriers. By aligning our services, we can now provide holistic healthcare services to
our clients. This event not only celebrates the unification of two great organizations but also
reaffirms our unwavering commitment to improving lives through accessible, compassionate,
and integrated healthcare.”
About the New Organization
The merger creates a singular, comprehensive healthcare system that expands its ability to meet
the community’s needs with compassion and innovation. By combining primary care and
behavioral health services, the organization sets a new standard for holistic and patient-centered
care.
For more information about Betty Jean Kerr People’s Health Centers and upcoming events, visit
www.phcenters.org or follow @bjkpeopleshealthcenters on Facebook and Inst
