A season of giving

The holidays are all about giving and I see examples of that every day in Central Minnesota.

CentraCare Health employees buy presents for families who are struggling, donate toys for local kids and ring the bell for the Salvation Army’s red kettles. Our employees are incredibly generous throughout the year — supporting many local charities and non-profits including the United Way. They gave more than $834,000 to the 2017 CentraCare Health Employee Campaign, which enhances programs and services through CentraCare Health Foundation.

I see hundreds of community members who volunteer at CentraCare Health facilities. Volunteers are a valuable part of our health care team in caring for our patients.

“Minnesota Nice” isn’t just a catchy phrase — it’s a way of life. Our Central Minnesota community gives generously — not just monetarily — of their time and talents.

One way that CentraCare Health gives back to the community is through the CentraCare Health Foundation. Our Foundation which engages the community to improve health and health care, witnesses the generosity from so many people across Central Minnesota. At the end of each year, businesses and organizations inspire others to give to the Foundation through $100,000 matching gifts. This year, the St. Cloud Hospital Auxiliary will generously match any new gift up to $100,000 received by Dec. 31. All matching gift proceeds will benefit the CentraCare Health Hospice Program.

Thank you for all that you do to make Central Minnesota a great place to live. From all of us at CentraCare Health, happy holidays and best wishes for a healthy and happy 2018!