DONOR SPOTLIGHT
The word “philanthropy” is a combination of two ancient Greek words: philos (love) and anthropos (humankind). This translates to mean “the love of humankind”. In today’s world, philanthropy has come to mean giving of oneself to benevolent causes, but such an act of kindness is certainly due to an innate love for and desire to help other human beings. People show love for others in many different ways, and they exhibit philanthropy in many different ways.
We at Children’s Hospital of Illinois are humbled daily by the inspirational stories of people who follow a passion to help others and positively impact the world around them. These philanthropists are everyday people who find joy in going above and beyond to help us serve our patients with unsurpassed quality healthcare. We’re honored to share with you stories of some of the donors who have touched our hearts. Each one is a blessing – a miracle – for which we are unspeakably grateful.
Feature Story
"Saint Francis Auxiliary-Service Guild Continues Generosity"
For over 40 years the Saint Francis Auxiliary-Service Guild has operated the gift shops at Saint Francis Medical Center with the sole purpose of donating the profits back to the hospital to assist in providing the greatest care and love to everyone in need. The Auxiliary has once again showed their generosity through a donation in the amount of $291,387. Lori Maass, Hospitality Business and Contract Manager for OSF Saint Francis, states this brings the group’s total donation to the hospital “over the years to more than $3 million”, including a $500,000 to the Milestone Project.
A Call Module purchased with last year’s Auxiliary donation ensures each patient receives a call within 48 hours of discharge. This is an opportunity to answer any questions regarding medications, follow up visits and clarify post discharge instructions, ultimately improving our quality of care and service to the community.
Another item purchased with funds raised by the Auxiliary is the Unity Scientific NIR Breast Milk Analyzer which analyzes breast milk to ensure the milk contains important nutrients. It is proven that babies in neo-natal intensive care recover more quickly and fend off medical challenges when fed their mothers’ breast milk. Since the nutrients in the milk vary from person to person and from time of day to another, it is extremely important to test the nutrient levels often. The analyzer offer a rapid tool for the NICU to quickly test the milk and make the proper fortification to help our smallest patients become healthier and stronger.
“The Auxiliary has been a vital partner to our hospital” shares Steve Weaver, Executive Director for OSF Saint Francis and Children’s Hospital of Illinois Foundation. “Their ongoing support allows us to purchase additional equipment and offer services which help provide the highest quality of medical care for every child who comes through our doors, and helping Children’s Hospital of Illinois to provide an environment that makes miracles happen everyday.”
Check out other Donor Spotlights for additional heartwarming stories of giving and love:
