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Annual Support Committee Supports Efforts of St. Rita's Development Council

The Annual Support Committee works continuously throughout the year to increase the number of St. Rita's donors through memorial gifts, giving clubs and year-end appeals. Projects such as the Tribute Garden at St. Rita's Regional Cancer Center and Share Your Blessings, an annual campaign for Hospice, are just two of the committee's efforts to get the community involved and raise money for the Medical Center.

 "People want to be part of a first class organization," says Elwer. "To see that their financial contribution is helping someone is of great value to them." Since 1987, Share Your Blessings has raised nearly $350,000 to support St. Rita's Hospice patients. "People give because it makes the community where we live and work a better place."

Mercy Club membership has also increased significantly through the efforts of the Annual Support Committee. Mercy Club members contribute at least $100 a year and more than 700 of St. Rita's employees are a part of this special giving club.

"Employees see everyday how the services St. Rita's provide impacts the community and our patient's quality of life," said Bonnie Huber, employee participation sub-committee chair. "They want to be included and show their support of St. Rita's also." Mercy Club membership now totals over 1,200.

The annual support committee also recognizes donors who give a memorial gift to the Medical Center in honor of or in memory of a loved one or friend.

"The community feels a sense of ownership for the Medical Center when they have personally invested in it," said Elwer. "This makes it possible for us to all work together to bring state-of-the-art services to St. Rita's Medical Center so we can all enjoy the finest healthcare available right here at home."