Dear Friends,
As we look forward to spring, I’d like to take a moment to reflect on the many accomplishments of the Labette Health Foundation this past year and express my gratitude to our many supporters. As president of the board, it is a privilege to witness the multitude of programs, services and activities the Labette Health Foundation has been able to provide with the support of our donors and volunteers.
Ensuring access to care
During 2017, the foundation was tremendously busy with a variety of projects, but especially with the opening of the Independence Healthcare Center, including the Rural Health Clinic and the Cancer Infusion Center. The foundation raised $1.6 million and secured a low-interest loan from the Department of Agriculture (USDA) to build the facility.
Thank you to all of our friends and neighbors in Independence and Montgomery County who helped us invest in the health needs of today and the future.
Where the money went
Last year the foundation also awarded $23,100 in scholarships to 25 individuals seeking a medical career, bringing our total scholarship donations to more than $250,000 over the past few years—an excellent investment in our future medical professionals!
We supported the Cancer Center of Kansas by purchasing a much-needed lift chair and creating a restricted fund for cancer patients to assist them with financial aid. We also purchased mannequins for emergency medical services training, four gastroscopes, three colonoscopes and two Endo-Express units, along with their supporting equipment for the operating room—totaling $241,848.
Overwhelming support
Donor support made this past gala the most successful to date, raising an unprecedented $212,250! The overwhelming support is so appreciated—it helps us keep quality health care available to our community. By supporting the Labette Health Foundation, you are investing in the health and wellness of everyone in southeast Kansas. With your support, alongside Labette Health as the area’s leading health care provider, we look forward to growing together in 2018.
Sincerely,
Richard Hines, President, Labette Health Foundation Board of Directors