The Great Plains Healthcare Foundation hosts a number of events during the year to honor and entertain our donors. This is a significant source of donations to The Foundation. If you would like to join us at one of our upcoming events, contact us for more information and a formal invitation.

Tree of Memories – December 2012
For Great Plains Regional Medical Center, the Tree of Memories is our symbol of the holidays to honor and cherish the memories of our loved ones. It is also a tradition of helping others to receive much needed care and comfort during an illness. Consider purchasing in memory of a loved one, or as a tribute to someone special. Ornaments can be purchased through the Foundation Office and will be available for pick up after the holiday season. Cards will attach to each ornament with the name of the individual honored.
Understanding Your Grief Journey Classes – October 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 6:30 pm – 8:30 pm
An opportunity for the bereaved to find support and education through the grief process. This six session class will focus on a wide range of grief and loss issues in life. Facilitators provide a safe environment for support, learning and sharing in the grief experience. Call Renee Callaghan at 696-7918 for more information and to register.

Grief Camp – July 2012
The 2012 Footsteps Grief Camp was held Saturday July 21st at McDonald Elementary School. This was the fifth year for this day-long camp which began to help children and families work through the grief they experience when they lose someone they love. Twenty eight kids and 15 adults spent the day forming connections with others; remembering their loved ones; processing their feelings through crafts, games, and music; and learning that they are not alone. Funds provided by Great Plains Regional Medical Center Foundation allowed families to attend free of cost. Twenty five volunteers gave of their time and energy during months of planning and throughout the day of camp. The closing ceremony for the camp consisted of a dove release in where all participants were given the opportunity to hold a dove and release it while music played in the background. Participants shared that this experience was very meaningful to them and was symbolic of their emotional release as well. A few comments shared by those that attended include the following: “Good to have this in our community. Thank you for this opportunity.”, “I found it helpful to hear everyone’s stories and know I’m not alone, also liked getting advice from counselors”, “ It was helpful to have the ability to grieve and not be judged.” The planning committee is already planning for next year. The 2013 Footsteps Grief Camp will be held on Saturday July 20th. For more information, please contact Renee Callaghan or Lisa Bocott at Great Plains Hospice, 308-696-7434

Cutting for Cancer – July 2012
The 5th annual ‘Cutting for Cancer’ at the Paxton Ranch, south of Thedford was held July 14-15. Ranchers John and Jessica Warren, from the beginning, have donated all the proceeds after expenses to finding a cure for cancer. The proceeds come from the concession stand free will donations, as well as from contestants ‘renting’ the cattle they use in practice and in the actual competition. The Warren’s also cushion the final amount “to a nice round number” Jessica stated. The first couple of years they sent a check to the American Cancer Society. “Last year and from now on, the proceeds we’ll send closer to home, to North Platte’s Callahan Cancer Center (CCC)”, stated Jessica. We are grateful to the Warren family and all of the community organizations who support Great Plains Health Care Foundation through fundraising efforts and donations.
Tough Enough to Wear Pink – June 2012
Great Plains Health Care Foundation held several events at GPRMC to raise excitement about Tough Enough To Wear Pink Night at the Buffalo Bill Rodeo, as well as to raise funds in support of the Callahan Cancer Center. Departments were able to decorate picket fences and the winner was chosen by the highest amount of monetary donations. Over $500 was also raised to get Greg Nielsen, CEO on a horse in the Grand Entry Parade, the night of the rodeo. Lastly, a dress pink contest was held and winners were announced in several categories, including The Most Shades of Pink, Wildest Pink Outfit, and Most Creative Use of Pink.
55-Plus Dinner – January 2012
In January, members of our 55 –plus club were invited to the Holiday Inn Express for a soup and sandwich supper. Over 250 attendees enjoyed a delicious meal, fellowship, and heard about the latest news at GPRMC. For more information about our 55-plus club, call Debbie Beebout at 696-7411.
Foundation Calendar of Events:
Check back for a link to our calendar currently in the design phase.
Gala 2011
Record Gala Benefits Neuroscience Program
The Great Plains Health Care Foundation annual gala raised a record $130,000 to benefit the GPRMC neurosciences program. The December 3 event featured a Casino Royale theme and 370 people enjoyed the dinner, dancing and live and silent auctions.
“The gala brings the community together to raise funds for important hospital programs,” said Greg Nielsen, CEO of Great Plains Regional Medical Center. “It’s an evening of fun with a deeper purpose.”
The neurosciences program at GPRMC includes the regions’ first certified stroke center as well as expert physicians, staff, and facilities to treat other conditions like epilepsy and sleep disorders.
“It’s all done to help grow and support the programs, services, and treatments that are needed in the North Platte community,” explains Libby Lashley, director of foundation. “Events like this are a great reminder of what a generous and caring community we have here in North Platte.”
GIVE TODAY
Phone: 308-696-7411
Toll-Free: 800-662-0011
E-mail: foundation@gprmc.com