Generosity. Legacy. COMMUNITY.
Our community makes an impact on improving its quality of life through donations to the Backus Foundation. In 2008, that impact was produced by more people, and felt in more ways than ever. Every donor dollar enhanced Backus Hospital's reach and ability to strengthen quality, technology, services and partnerships.
CIRCLES OF CARE: THOUSANDS SUPPORT HEALTH INITIATIVES
Many in the community participated in the Backus Breast Health Initiatives. From corporate and generous individual gifts, to donations of $1 at dozens of local businesses, eastern Connecticut truly stepped up to support Backus Hospital's improvements in breast cancer care. Nearly 20,000 Circles of Care were purchased, and more than $300,000 was raised toward the initiatives. Each dollar provided for the Breast Health Patient Navigator program, and important services that include health education, and the advancement of early detection and improved treatment options.
ANNUAL GIVING: SUPPORTING THE HOSPITAL'S ONGOING NEEDS
Annual gifts from individuals, businesses, service organizations and foundations are the cornerstone of philanthropic support for the Backus Foundation. This year, the 1,734 donors who supported our Annual Fund and the annual Backus golf tournament helped launch and sustain a new and needed program: the Backus Breast Health Patient Navigator. This program - combined with Backus Hospital's medical expertise and its standard-setting cancer center - is really making a difference in women's health in eastern Connecticut.
GIFTS OF LEGACY: WORKING TODAY TO IMPROVE OUR TOMORROWS
Chuck Seeman, President and CEO of United Community & Family Services, was honored in September with the fourth annual Backus Heritage Award, celebrating those who champion gifts of legacy. Mr. Seeman and his family are exemplars in their support of our community hospital, through annual gifts, legacy gifts and capital campaign support. The Legacy Society continues to grow, and Backus Foundation is honored to recognize those who have informed us of their intentions to leave a gift to Backus through their estate plans or creative gift planning.
FOUNDATION EVENTS: MAKING FRIENDS AND RAISING FUNDS
Events provide opportunities to celebrate, socialize and offer support. Our alwayspopular golf tournament in June marked its 27th successful year. The Physicians Tribute, which raised $50,000 in honor of the late Bernard Podurgiel, MD, provided an opportunity to celebrate his memory and commemorate a plaque in his honor.
Numerous community partners, such as Connecticut Sun and Hard Rock Café at Foxwoods, hosted events that raised funds and awareness about Backus. And the Pink Party celebration, in support of our Breast Health Initiatives, is being planned for this coming Spring.
A WORD ABOUT THE ECONOMY: HEALTHCARE IS NOT A LUXURY
We have all been buffeted by the faltering economy this past year, and the near-term financial future looks difficult, at best. Backus Foundation is by no means exempt from the effects of an economic downturn.
But quality healthcare is not a luxury. In fact, during tough financial times, our hospital's role as a vital community safety net becomes even more necessary.
In its 115 years, Backus Hospital has seen good economic times and bad. Prudent financial decisions, always driven by the community's needs, have allowed Backus to remain strong and responsive.
We are honored that we have earned our community's trust, and we value every donor's gift. Your gift to Backus has real impact - on our community's health today, and into the future.