April 22, 2002

Genesis Foundation Gala Breaks Attendance And Event Fundraising Record

The Genesis Health Services Foundation Gala once again exceeds its goal. This annual event raised more than $115,000 and attracted a record-breaking number of 377 guests to the Davenport Outing Club on April 12. The event included an Elizabeth Taylor impersonator, a champagne and gemstone event along with live and silent auctions. Charitable proceeds will be used to purchase state-of-the-art dialysis machines for the Edwin A. Motto, M.D. Renal Dialysis Center and to expand the Genesis Gala Nursing Scholarship and Loan Program.

"We are concerned about the future of health care in our community, and that is why this year's Gala committee chose to support the nursing scholarship and loan program and the dialysis unit," says Andy Butler, Co-Chair of the 2002 Genesis Foundation Gala Committee. "The nationwide nursing shortage has had an impact on many hospitals across the country, including Genesis. We believe nursing is a very challenging but rewarding profession, and if we can encourage individuals to pursue a nursing career through incentives like the scholarship and loan program then it's a win-win situation for the entire community." The program provides scholarships to students pursuing a baccalaureate degree and who desire to work at Genesis upon graduation.

Gala proceeds will also purchase six state-of-the-art dialysis machines. More than 200 patients are seen in the Edwin A. Motto, M.D. Renal Dialysis Center each year. Each patient requires four to six hours of treatment, three times a week. With the new machines, patients will experience advanced therapy, minimal downtime and more flexibility in treatment options.

Anyone interested in making a contribution to the Genesis Health Services Foundation to support our community's health care may call 563-421-6865.