Hospital Foundation celebrates 25th anniversary

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HOSPITAL FOUNDATION CELEBRATES 25th ANNIVERSARY

     On September 20, 1994 the Redfield Community Memorial Hospital and Clinic Foundation, Inc. received its Certificate of Incorporation as a nonprofit corporation from the State of South Dakota, Office of the Secretary of State.  This certificate was signed and sealed by Joyce Hazeltine, Secretary of State.  This was the beginning of a very important charitable entity in our community.

     In July of 1994 a group of residents from Redfield and the surrounding communities with a vision for the future of healthcare met for an organizational meeting.  The nine charter members of the Board of Directors of the Redfield Community Memorial Hospital and Clinic Foundation included Dr. Verle Rogers, Diana Wright, Dianne From, Chuck Stoks, Brad Moore, Mary Rice, Anita Frankenstein, Lyn L. Schultz and Norbert Miles.  This group drafted by-laws as well as it’s mission statement “To ensure the provision of quality healthcare and services to residents of Redfield and its surrounding communities by providing financial support to the Community Memorial Hospital and Clinic.”

     The late Redfield Attorney, Galen Gillette volunteered considerable time and effort in assisting the Foundation Board with pursuing and securing 501-C3 Non-Profit Organization status from the Internal Revenue Service.  This made it possible for all donations to the Foundation to be tax deductible.  Mr. Gillette’s guidance and assistance facilitated a successful future for the Foundation to assist in the future needs of our healthcare community.

     The first major fundraising event for the Foundation was a Community Capers benefit which was held on January 8, 1995 at the Redfield High School Auditorium.  Anita Frankenstein chaired the event and Lutheran Brotherhood provided matching funds.  Thanks to many groups and individuals sharing their talent along with tremendous community support, the Community Capers was a huge success.  Successful Community Capers events were repeated in 1996 and 1997 with continued successful fundraising and awareness for the Foundation’s mission.

     Throughout the following years support for the Hospital Foundation grew through such events as Kiwanis Pancake Breakfasts as well as various other service organizations such as the Knights of Columbus, the Hospital Auxiliary and many other groups.  There were also quilt raffles, an antique swing raffle and a Salute to Mothers Fundraiser.  Generous gifts were graciously accepted by the Foundation from private individuals and businesses.

     After many months of planning and preparation a Capital Campaign was begun in 1997 which raised approximately $800.000 for future renovation and new construction needs as well as physician recruitment efforts.  These gifts were comprised of cash and deferred gifts, endowments, life insurance policies and gifts of annuities.  Several parcels of land were donated by the Eastern Star Home of South Dakota to accommodate the expansion of the Hospital and Clinic.

     Over the past quarter of a century amazing progress has been achieved through the efforts of dozens of individuals who have served in many capacities on the Redfield Community Memorial Hospital and Clinic Board.  There has also been tremendous support from the people and businesses in Redfield and surrounding communities.  Today we are grateful for the “state of the art” healthcare facilities in Redfield.  We have very much to be proud of with our medical complex and wonderful staff.

     On Saturday, November 9th the Community Memorial Hospital and Clinic Foundation will be celebrating 25 Years with it’s 5th Annual GALA to be held this year at the Shanty Haven in Redfield.  Mogen’s Hero’s will be again providing the entertainment.  The Social Hour begins at 5:30 with Dinner to follow offering a choice of Prime Rib or Bacon Wrapped Chicken.  Tickets can be purchased at the Hospital Foundation Office or by calling 472-3778.  A variety of Table Sponsorship Levels are available while individual tickets may also be purchased.  If you are unable to attend the GALA, Raffle Tickets for Cash, a Beretta A400 Uplander 12 Gauge Shotgun and $250 Gift Certificate to the Tulare Locker are available at the Foundation Officer or from any Hospital Foundation member.  Silent Auction Baskets will also be on display at the Redfield Vote & Vax Flu Clinic on November 5th in the Sunset Court Lobby.  Tickets for the GALA will be on sale until Monday, October 28th.  Come and join in the Celebration!