Whether in times of blessing or challenge, the Wellstar Foundation rallies for our System and community. That spirit has never been stronger than in 2020 when the Foundation was a source of compassionate innovation that lifted and cared for the community during the COVID-19 pandemic. Under the leadership of new President Julie Teer, the Foundation will continue to provide life-changing services, programs and support that make a profound impact on our community. When we think of Wellstar, we think of hospitals, clinical-care teams, innovative treatment, cutting-edge research and compassionate patient care. Behind each of these is the quiet strength of the Wellstar Foundation. INVESTINGINA HEALTHIERTOMORROW
The Foundation met community needs. As much of the world closed down in mid-March, the Foundation expanded its access, partnering with the Wellstar Center for Health Equity to bring testing and telehealth to underserved communities. The Foundation supplied tablet devices to critical care and COVID units so that hospitalized patients could communicate with loved ones. As well, the Foundation facilitated local business contributions of meals, funds and encouragement to benefit our frontline heroes—the hospital personnel. Team members were more generous than ever in fiscal year 2020, and Foundation support of teammembers was returned with a resounding expression of appreciation. Despite financial constraints on many, team member giving rose to its highest level, topping $1.3 million. Among many meaningful initiatives, this historic generosity permitted the Foundation to offer additional emergency financial assistance to team members in need, and to fund more scholarships to benefit the educational dreams of employees, families and dependents. JennaWeber’s successful recovery from a stroke left her filled with gratitude for those who cared for her, from the moment she arrived at Wellstar Kennestone Hospital, through treatment and months of rehabilitation. Jenna, just 33 when she was stricken, expressed her thanks by hosting fundraisers at Dry County Brewing Co. in Kennesaw, where she is the tasting room manager. “Dr. Gupta and the team never gave up on me, and I am so thankful,” she says. See more on Jenna's story on Wellstar's YouTube channel.
There was magic in the air at this year’s Wellstar Foundation Starlight Grand Gala. Although this year’s event was virtual, it was as big and bright as ever. The fundraiser was originally scheduled to support emergency and trauma services, but donations were redirected to the System’s COVID-19 Relief Fund. The star-studded evening was hosted by Fred Blankenship. It included appearances by special guests Michelle Malone and John Driskell, Dominique Wilkins, the Nappy Roots and other celebrities. A benefit of the digital format was that the number of guests was unlimited; all who wished to could enjoy the gala from the comfort of their homes.
34 | WELLSTAR HEALTH SYSTEM
Made with FlippingBook - Online catalogs