The EvergreenHealth Foundation raised $1.25 million at this year’s annual gala to support patients served by EvergreenHealth’s Acute Rehabilitation Unit. Now in its 13th year, the Evergreen Gala united more than 700 community decision-makers, leading physicians and local executives at King County’s Marymoor Park on Saturday, April 26.
Gala proceeds will assist with the development of a specialized “home transition” apartment that will simulate the environment patients must adjust to once they return home, as well as provide support for additional program upgrades to enhance the therapeutic and facility environment.
The intent of an acute rehabilitation stay is to prepare a patient for their transition home following a serious illness, injury, or hospitalization that has led to impaired function. The unit’s 24/7 medical monitoring and intensive, multi-disciplinary rehabilitation provides equal parts safety and coordinated care, ensuring patients return home with the training and confidence necessary to flourish in their home environments.
“Each year, our annual gala gathers some of our community’s most inspiring and selfless donors that we feel so fortunate to call our friends and honored guests. Their compassion for the patients and families who depend on EvergreenHealth’s growing network of care and specialties extends far beyond tonight’s celebration. Their example is a constant reminder to each of us who strive to live EvergreenHealth’s mission to serve others with safe, quality and cost-effective health care and service,” said EvergreenHealth CEO Bob Malte.
This year, the EvergreenHealth Foundation was honored to present the Gene and Ruth Freedman family with the annual Spirit of Giving award as part of EvergreenHealth’s ongoing commitment to recognize those whose selfless contributions are crucial to the health and well-being of the community.
This year’s award recognized the Freedman family’s multiple generations of service and generosity to the community. Members of the family have invested in their community both as corporate sponsors as well as individually. In addition to their generous financial support, family members have given freely of their time and talents, serving non-profit agencies ranging from Boys & Girls Club of America, The Cal Ripken Sr. Foundation, the Easter Seals Partnership Board, EvergreenHealth’s Community Advisory Board, Jewish Family Services, UW Advisory Board, Hope Link and Easter Seals Foundation.
The annual black-tie gala, this year themed “Under the Big Top,” is EvergreenHealth’s signature fundraiser, generating millions of dollars to support programs and departments across the organization. Last year’s gala raised $1.2 million to benefit EvergreenHealth’s Neonatal Intensive Care Unit with expanded space and innovative technology to care for critically ill and extremely premature infants during their vital first hour of life. Next year’s event will take place on April 25, 2015 in King County’s Marymoor Park.
To learn more about the EvergreenHealth Foundation and its demonstrated commitment to community improvement, visit www.EvergreenHealthFoundation.com.
