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The Wilson Memorial Hospital Foundation recently hosted the Shelby County Granges organization on April 23. The program began with a tour of the hospital. Highlights included the newly renovated third floor patient care area, Francis Women’s Center and the Copeland-Emerson Family Birth Center. Following the tour, Bonnie Faulkner, executive director of the Wilson Memorial Hospital Foundation spoke to the group about the Foundation and its purpose. “The Foundation exists solely to contribute to the financial support and betterment of the hospital,” stated Faulkner. “It is with community support that Wilson Memorial is able to continue to fulfill its mission of providing quality and focused care for our patients today and in the future.” She then introduced Roger Lentz, executive director of the Shelby County Farm Service Agency and Wilson Foundation board member, who discussed how the agricultural sector is Shelby County’s largest industry and employs nearly 6200 people. The total annual output of this industry exceeds $553 million. “Other than the mining industry, agriculture is one of the most dangerous occupations and we are fortunate to have a community hospital, like Wilson, nearby,” said Lentz. “A majority of the farm operators develop estate plans or trusts to either distribute accumulated assets to family members, friends, charities, churches or schools. I would like to think that Wilson Memorial Hospital could be a consideration to support the healthcare needs of the community.” Tom Boecker, Wilson president and CEO, next spoke on the importance of Wilson to the community and gave an overall report on the hospital. “Annually the hospital provides $88 million in direct economic benefit to Shelby County,” stated Boecker. “We have over 750 employees when you include the hospital and physician offices and are the fifth largest employer in the county.” Boecker discussed with the group how Wilson continues to remain financially strong over the years. “We have good relationships with our medical staff and continue to be successful in physician recruitment,” he said. “Most importantly, we have received ongoing community support, which is critical to the success of Wilson.” Boecker conveyed the importance of growing the hospital’s general endowment fund through planned giving, for the future viability of the Hospital. “Hopefully, you will walk away this evening understanding the importance of supporting this hospital,” said Boecker. “I encourage you to share the information you learned tonight with your family, friends, and business associates. Wilson Memorial has always been and remains your community hospital. With your support we will continue to deliver the healthcare you and your families know and trust.” For more information about giving to the Wilson Memorial Hospital Foundation or to schedule a similar presentation and tour, please contact Bonnie Faulkner at (937) 498-5575 or visit www.wilsonhospitalfoundation.com.
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