FCHC Establishes Charitable Foundation
Since its inception, Fulton County Health Center has provided health care for thousands of residents in surrounding communities. Through the years, many of those patients and community members have expressed their appreciation by generously donating to the Health Center. Beginning, January 1, 2024, the FCHC Foundation will provide the structure to facilitate the giving process as it begins accepting donations from those who are interested in doing so.
“We established the FCHC Foundation to assist us in serving the community by promoting and providing the means for continued health and wellness,” says Patti Finn, FCHC CEO. “Several years ago, we established our 100 Year Plan for the Health Center. This strategic plan outlines how we will provide services for the Fulton County community in the short-term and the long-term. With the implementation of the FCHC Foundation, we will be able to make large strides towards fulfilling the various components of the plan. Ultimately, the Foundation will assist FCHC with the improvement of our community’s health.”
The Foundation’s Structure
The FCHC Foundation is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization, which allows donors to claim a tax deduction for their contributions. Jana Armstrong, FCHC’s former Community Outreach Coordinator, will now serve as the Foundation Director. The Foundation is governed by a separate Board of Directors and consists of William Simpkins – President; Brian Stuckey – Vice President & Secretary; and Dave Gerken – Treasurer & Chairperson.
“Any remaining donations which have been made to the hospital’s “Memorial Fund” in the past will now be used to help us kick start the FCHC Foundation beginning January 1,” says Armstrong.
How the Funds Will Be Used
“Your contributions will support our promise of whole-life care, from the joyful beginnings in Pediatrics to the dignity of Elder care,” says Armstrong. “100% of every dollar will be used to revitalize the local community by elevating our providers through continuous education, offering comprehensive care that adapts to every stage of life, or embarking on strategic renovations and expansion of our facilities. We’re not just preparing for the future—we’re building it.”
One example of using donations from the FCHC Foundation to benefit the community is the Foundation’s current capital campaign to raise funds for the renovation of the FCHC Heart & Vascular Center. Once the renovations are completed, FCHC will have two state-of-the-art Cath Labs. With the exception of open-heart surgery, patients will be able to have almost any heart or vascular procedure performed at FCHC without the need to be transported to Toledo or Fort Wayne.
How To Donate to the Foundation
There are many ways to donate to the Foundation. Donors may give outright gifts such as cash, stocks, property, or real estate. These gifts may be used immediately by the FCHC Foundation. You can make your dollars go further by pledging a monthly, quarterly, bi-annual, or annual amount. Memorial gifts in any amount can be made to express your sympathy, celebrate achievements or remember loved ones who have passed away. You may also include the FCHC Foundation in your estate plan, leaving a lasting legacy in your community. Let others know about our Foundation’s message and achievements and help increase our potential for success. This can be done through word-of-mouth and your social media posts.
Donor Levels & Recognition
As foundation donors reach new levels of lifetime giving, they will receive recognition on the FCHC Foundation’s “Tree of Life” with a leaf corresponding to the color of their contribution level as noted below.They will also be recognized on the FCHC Foundation website (fchcfoundation.org) and in appropriate foundation materials.
$5,000 – Bronze
$10,000 – Silver
$25,000 – Gold
$50,000 – Donors of $50,000 or more shall have the opportunity to name an appropriate area of the hospital, at the discretion of the Foundation Board. To learn more about naming opportunities, please contact the Foundation Office.
Our Mission
Fulton County Health Center Foundation strives to serve and support our community by providing charitable resources to assist Fulton County Health Center in completing the circle of care.
“Join us in this essential mission,” says Armstrong. “Your involvement isn’t just a donation — it’s an investment in the vitality of Fulton County. Together, let’s nurture the seeds of health and wellness that will bloom for generations to come.”
“If FCHC has ever taken care of you, your family members, friends or neighbors, please consider assisting the FCHC Foundation with your talent, time or treasure,” adds Finn. “We appreciate all those who have contributed in the past and those who will do so in the future!”
For more information about the FCHC Foundation or to donate, visit fchcfoundation.org or contact Jana Armstrong, FCHC Foundation Director, at 419-337-7318 or [email protected].
