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The WHS Foundation hosted its inaugural event called the ‘Grateful Gathering’ at WHS Washington Hospitalon Friday, November 18, 2022.

The event kicked off at 5:30pm just inside the main entrance of the hospital where Brook Ward, President and CEO, as well as Sara Schumacher, Executive Director of the WHS Foundation, addressed the crowd. 

During the opening comments, Mrs. Schumacher stated, “the idea for this event came from our desire to recognize several key events: the 125^th Anniversary of WHS, National Philanthropy Day, which is celebrated in the month of November, and all of you: our WHS Team members, donors and community members.” She also added “We felt this was a great way to kick off the holiday season with you in fellowship on our campus.” 

The event was well attended and offered local patients, donors and families the opportunity to enjoy food trucks, a DJ, kids activities and crafts, complimentary hot beverages and snacks. There was also an opportunity to make a donation in honor of a loved one and place their name on a leaf of the grateful gathering tree.  Plus, visitors had an opportunity to browse and shop inside the hospital’s amazing gift shop, which is currently stocked with Christmas décor and gifts galore. 

It is no small feat for a local community hospital to remain independent for over a century. WHS has done that and more. WHS has thrived over the years by expanding from what started as a small 20-bed former farmhouse to an expansive health system. 

During the event, the health system also unveiled its 125-year commemorative illustration that now hangs in the lobby. The illustration is a collage of buildings, stacked one in front of the other, that represents the health system’s growth over the years. Mr. Ward mentioned the print in his speech by stating, “This print represents the past, present, and future of WHS.  Many of our buildings have gone through changes over the years, but one thing remains constant, the Great Patient Care our teams provide every day.” 

Copies of the illustration are also on sale in the WHS Washington Hospital gift shop. 

Ward also thanked everyone for their ongoing support of the health system and stated, “Our goal is to be here for another 125 years for you, your family, and your friends.” 

Washington Health System has a rich history of community commitment. The walls of all the facilities within our health system stand strong because of the support of this community: not only financial support from local donors to build new projects and purchase new equipment, but also the support of countless hours of volunteer work and loyal patronage from WHS patients. 

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