The Grundy County Memorial Hospital Foundation’s Gala and Auction ‘Cruising through the Decades’ netted more than $45,000 to benefit the hospital’s current renovation and Specialty Clinic expansion project. The volunteer committee who planned the event are pictured, left to right, Deb Wentzien, Rhonda Samo, Cindy Simms, Kelly Dinsdale, and Kate Durbin. Photo submitted

GRUNDY CENTER More than 180 guests enjoyed fine dining and live and silent auctions at the tenth annual Grundy County Memorial Hospital Foundation Gala & Auction on Saturday evening, which raised $45,000 to support the Foundation.

The Gala theme, ‘Cruising through the Decades’ reflected the 65 years the hospital has been serving the health care needs of area communities. Hospital CEO Jennifer Havens spoke to attendees about the improved patient care and convenience made possible with the expansion that’s now underway in the Specialty Clinic and new Women’s Health Center, including new 3D mammography. Havens noted that the hospital’s 1952 opening was a ‘dream come true’ for community leaders of the time, who would be very proud to see how their legacy of providing health care to the surrounding rural area has continued through the years. Guests showed their support of the project by donating $13,700 during the Fund a Need portion of the evening, which focused on the Specialty Clinic expansion. Physicians who see patients in the Specialty Clinic as well as two grateful patients also matched a portion of the Fund a Need gifts.

The ‘Cruising through the Decades’ theme was carried out by Gala committee volunteers Kelly Dinsdale, Kate Durbin, Rhonda Samo, Cindy Simms, and Deb Wentzien. Area businesses and individuals donated a record number of auction items to the event and guests enjoyed bidding on many items such as a one-week resort vacation, Hawkeye football package, LASIK eye surgery, a car care package, and much more. Emcee Gary Kroeger and auctioneer Mark Jungling kept the entertainment and bidding lively.

“The success of the Gala demonstrates the amazing support that community members provide to the hospital,” said Erin Schildroth, Foundation event coordinator. “Local businesses donate items for the Silent and Live Auction, area physicians provide desserts for the Dessert Auction, our volunteer committee creates a wonderful atmosphere for our guests to enjoy, and our guests are genuine in their support of the hospital.”

More information about the hospital’s renovation and Specialty Clinic project, including opportunities to support the project with a gift, may be found at www.grundycountyhospital.org, or by contacting the Foundation at 319-824-4152.