GIVING SOCIETIES | Make an Impact CONCORD HOSPITAL TRUST 10 Supporting Concord Hospital Health System (CHHS) is more than a gift — it’s a powerful investment in the health and well-being of our community. Through our giving societies, donors not only help meet critical needs, but also have a meaningful voice in shaping where and how their philanthropy makes a difference. First came the Women’s Giving Circle (WGC) — a dedicated group of 40 members each year who come together to thoughtfully direct their collective contributions toward the areas of greatest impact on patient care. “Since 2018, our membership has grown,” says Priscilla McKerley a longtime member of the WGC who recently took over as chair. “Through these women, we funded more than 30 projects, totaling over $220,000. It’s been a wonderful group working collaboratively together, assisting the needs within the community.” Driven by strong community interest and feedback, Concord Hospital Trust has established the Lakes Region Giving Society (LRGS) to support and grow philanthropy in the Lakes Region. Under the new structure, engaged longtime supporters — as well as new advocates — will come together to bolster efforts to ensure that exceptional care and services in CHHS grow and are sustained. Projects are vetted through leadership to align with our strategic vision and highest priorities for care in the Lakes Region, while giving members a meaningful voice in approving the projects that resonate most with them. Joining the LRGS requires a minimum annual contribution of $1,000, payable as a lump sum or in monthly or quarterly installments; individual memberships are always welcome, and couples may join under a single membership with one collective vote, reflecting the group’s highly social, community- driven approach to philanthropy. Similarly, membership in the WGC requires a $1,000 annual gift, with new members eligible for a first-year introductory contribution of $500 before transitioning to the full level in subsequent years. “LRGS membership is by no means limited by geography and is open to any and all who may be interested in developments in this sector of the CHHS service network,” explains Steve McManis, chair of the Trust Board of Trustees. “I’m passionate and inspired to have personally joined this dynamic group and look ahead to its positive influence.” Every project presented to the LRGS for support will align with the approved, strategic priorities of CHHS. That could mean capital investments in the Emergency Department, program funding to expand cancer or cardiovascular programs in the Lakes Region, or other timely initiatives that improve access, quality, and innovation in local health care. And, because of their distinct membership structure, the more people who join the WGC and LRGS, the more funds the giving societies are able to award. “Philanthropy has always played an essential role in helping CHHS meet the needs of our community, as we’ve seen through the success of the WGC,” Chief Advancement Officer Veronica Rosa says. “We are deeply grateful for the generosity and spirit of this community. With the Lakes Region Giving Society, we are introducing a model of informed, collaborative philanthropy — one that brings people together to pool their resources, share in meaningful decision-making, and support projects that make a real and immediate difference. It is truly an honor to bring LRGS to a community that has shown such genuine care for and commitment to the health of our region.” Concord Hospital Health System GIVING SOCIETY Investing in Local Health Care, Together.
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