Department Spotlight: Elkhart General Hospital Foundation

Kay Evans Ball, MSW, Executive Director; Mary Beth Deitch, Donor Relations Coordinator

Did you know since 2009 over $3.5 million was invested in Elkhart General through the Elkhart General Hospital Foundation? Thousands of donations, combined with Foundation investment income, propel the hospital’s world-class care.

The Foundation protects the tradition of financial stewardship, honoring the legacy of Elkhart General. Established nearly 50 years ago under guidance from hospital board member Arthur J. Decio, Art continues to serve as the Foundation Board Chairman, its No. 1 philanthropist and ambassador.

Our mission to “encourage and steward philanthropic gifts from individuals, organizations, businesses and foundations” promotes the community’s health and well-being. Outstanding Elkhart General programs and services, unable to be covered with medical insurance or patient payments, depend on the Foundation’s invaluable partnership.

A new project was inaugurated by the Foundation in 2015. To recognize contributions, major gift donors may select spaces to be named, as they wish. Inspired by the construction of the Arthur J. Decio Pavilion, $510,000 in gifts/pledges has been received to date with 40 spaces named, benefitting Elkhart General services/programs of the donor’s choice.

Board-certified diagnostic radiologist Samir Patel, MD, and his wife, Shetal, shared their generosity with the Foundation, leading to Auditorium B being renamed the Patel Family Auditorium.

“To be part of such a great community benefit, as well as to be associated with a location in the hospital that is utilized so much for inspiring innovation, sharing experiences and celebrating successes, was quite an honor,” says Dr. Patel.

The Elkhart General Hospital Auxiliary saw the naming opportunity as a way to remind people that the organization is an active and vital part of the community.

“We were excited to support the naming of the Surgery Family Lounge,” says Auxiliary President Betty Borlik. “People need to feel welcomed and taken care of in this space, and that is what the lounge is all about.”

Guided by its Board of Directors, the Foundation also offers donor stewardship dinners, special events and newsletters; unique initiatives such as commemorative blankets for patients during the Pavilion’s grand opening; and will soon establish the first donor and legacy donor walls.