Dave Anderson: Healthfinders’ Cybersecurity Expert

In today's world, technology is an essential pillar of practically any business. With seemingly constant advancements being made, it is crucial to stay proficient in cutting-edge practices and strategies to keep your audience engaged and your community organized. Because many of these innovations aren't always the most intuitive, it is crucial to have a team member who has mastered the skill of networking and implementing new technology strategies and platforms. Dave Anderson is the cybersecurity savant who has been keeping HealthFinders technologically strong for nearly 15 years by ensuring protection of its data and confidential health records. He even built the organization’s very first website and patient database!> As a volunteer with HealthFinders Collaborative (HFC), Dave has helped with everything from organizing data to training staff on how to identify scams and hacking attempts. His efforts ensure that HFC has a robust network backbone so that support care can be provided to anyone, anywhere, at any time. His services also allow for more efficient processes that give HFC the ability to share necessary medical information with health system partners safely and confidentially.When asked why he volunteers for HealthFinders, Dave stated, “I feel very blessed in my life and feel a need to give back. HealthFinders is an organization which aligns with my values, so I am always happy to help.”

Get to Know Dave Dave started his career working for a local software company, and when it began to tank, he played an integral role in repairing the sinking ship. After reconstructing their systems and profile, the company flourished. However, Dave felt that during the renovation, the culture of teamwork that he valued was left behind. Dave left his job and started his own business, Essential Consulting, LLC, which offers software programming and network security, and sells and services computer hardware.  Dave is happily married to his wife, Kris, of nearly 32 years, and together they raised their son, Daniel (age 23) and daughter, Anna (age 20).

Importance to the Community When asked about Dave's contributions and what they mean to the HFC community, HFC Executive Director Charlie Mandile said, “HFC benefits from cutting-edge technology on par with larger and sophisticated organizations,” which supports their unique model of delivering services across the community. “Dave supports everything from server design, airtight network security, and helping staff set up their laptops, and he does so with a pleasant and helpful attitude. Without question, Dave is part of our HFC family,” said Charlie.   Dave's career serves as a reminder that volunteering and sharing your talents with people every chance you get can improve lives.

If you, too, have a gift or talent you would like to share with HFC, sign up to volunteer here !