When tragedy strikes, these leaders lend a hand

As the world looks on in horror at the devastation in the Philippines wrought by Typhoon Haiyan, not everyone remains a spectator to this humanitarian tragedy.

Some spring into action—especially those in healthcare who have the skills, the dedication and, most importantly, the heart that allows them to provide leadership and aid in such tragic circumstances. They are people like Hugh Greene, president and CEO of Baptist Health in Jacksonville, Fla., who helps provide care and shelter for the homeless. Or Tim Serban, chief mission integration officer for Providence Health & Services in Oregon, who springs into action for the American Red Cross and other groups whenever tragedy strikes.

They are this year's winner and one of the honorable mentions in Modern Healthcare's 2013 Community Leadership Award program. The recipients were chosen in a two-step process. First, readers voted among 10 finalists whose moving stories were published on our website. The editors made the final choices.

After reading their stories, I think you'll agree that any one of these remarkable leaders could have earned the top spot. We offer our heartfelt congratulations, just as their communities offer their thanks, to all the nominees and the winners.

Follow Merrill Goozner on Twitter: @MHgoozner