Methodist Hospitals Foundation kicked off the week with excitement at its Annual Golf Outing on Monday, September 26th. More than 150 people enjoyed delicious food, wonderful company, and a sunny autumn day of golf at Innsbrook Country Club in Merrillville. It was a day of fun with a purpose – raising funds to support patient services at Methodist Hospitals.
“I am always heartened by the enthusiasm of our guests. Every year the golfers and other supporters give generously to our mission while enjoying a wonderful day, one that is very important to the hospital,” said Judy Lindsey, Executive Director of Methodist Hospitals Foundation.
This year’s event was Methodist Hospitals Foundation’s 11th Annual Golf Outing. There was many ways for everyone to engage. For the golfers, there was the hole-in-one challenge at $10,000 supported generously by General Insurance Services plus various other hole contests such as the opportunity to win a 55-inch TV at the putting contest sponsored by CDW. Inside, there was a variety silent auction items available for bidding.
When the golfers returned from the course they were joined by other guests for a tasty dinner and the awards ceremony. The entire event, from morning through evening, was a great way for everyone to bond in a casual, friendly environment while contributing to a worthwhile cause.
Matthew Doyle, president and CEO of Methodist Hospitals, explained why this event and others that the Foundation hosts are so meaningful to board members and staff. “It gives us the opportunity to speak with our key donors, vendors and community partners and make sure they understand where their donations are going and how their generosity is helping our hospital serve patients in Northwest Indiana. It’s a great way to come together and have those special conversations,” said Doyle.
Last year’s golf outing raised over $150,000. The goal for this year was to raise a similar amount. All the money will help Methodist Hospitals continue its mission of providing care for anyone needing medical attention, regardless of their ability to pay. Also, proceeds will allow new equipment to be purchased.
“With healthcare generally in flux nationally the ability to have money available for things that come up unexpectedly is very important to a hospital like Methodist. Obviously, during COVID there were many unforeseen needs that hadn’t been allocated for, so it’s good to be able to raise funds now to allow the hospital to have more breathing room to address last-minute needs,” said Gary Miller, board member of the Foundation and co-chair of the golf outing.
The day ultimately became one of gratitude. At the awards dinner, Heather McCarthy, Foundation board president, thanked all of the sponsors and supporters. “The Foundation and hospital board members are extremely grateful for everyone’s willingness to come out every year to support Methodist Hospitals,” said McCarthy. Also, she spoke words of appreciation for the team of volunteers and staff who worked behind the scenes to make the day enjoyable for everyone.
However, the Foundation was most thankful to the hospital’s staff. The day was truly meant to support them in all that they do to make people’s lives better. “We just want to thank our Methodist heroes—the hospital staff. They are the heart of the work. They are touching lives. They’re truly the unsung heroes and we feel privileged to support them in what they do with our fund raising efforts,” said Lindsey.
To learn more about the Methodist Hospitals Foundation and its work to support Methodist Hospitals, visit methodisthospitals.org/about-us/methodist-hospitals-foundation.
