Bruce Burton
Jeff Kopecky
Mike Schend |
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THREE OUTSTANDING COMMUNITY LEADERS RECEIVE
PROVIDENCE “HEARTS OF GOLD” HONORS
Sept. 21, 2009
HOOD RIVER, Ore. – They are people who make a difference – people who enrich our community through their good works, selfless dedication and commitment to health. They truly have “hearts of gold.”
Each year Providence Hood River Memorial Hospital Foundation recognizes three people for its annual “Hearts of Gold” awards. This year’s recipients include Hood River dentist Dr. Bruce Burton, Providence Hood River nurse anesthetist Jeff Kopecky and community member Mike Schend. The three will be honored at the foundation’s “Hearts of Gold Gala” on Saturday, Nov. 7, at the Best Western Hood River Inn.
Dr. Burton received this year’s health care provider award. He has provided years of free dental care to Gorge communities and helped establish the Gorge Dental Access Coalition, a program which gives those with limited or no insurance access to dental care. “Bruce is an exceptional advocate for the dental professionals in our community,” said Rena Whittaker, director, Providence Hood River Memorial Hospital Foundation “He is an amazing and humble leader dedicated to giving back.”
Kopecky received this year’s health professional award for his creative and compassionate attitude toward everyone he encounters. He works towards improving medical staff and nurse education and has assisted in helping an anesthesia program become a clinical site for new anesthetists in training. Kopecky also serves on the Hood River County School board and advocates for student education, teacher satisfaction and bridging communications within the community. “Jeff is a wonderful asset to our hospital and entire community,” remarked Whittaker. “He touches the most vulnerable among us with kindness, care and excellence.”
Schend, who recently retired from 25 years as the director of Hood River Community Education, received this year’s community member award. Over the course of his career, he has been a leader and inspiration for students, teachers and community members building programs and events encompassing the aspects of the Gorge area. “Mike has enriched so many lives in our town through his tireless follow through and ‘can do’ attitude,” said Whittaker. “He is the force of positive, constructive, and inspirational energy and change.”
The gala is open to the public. It features a champagne reception and silent auction, plated dinner and live auction. Live music and dancing will follow. Tickets are $100 per person and can be reserved by calling the foundation office at 541-387-8907. All proceeds will benefit Providence Hood River Memorial Hospital Foundation’s The One Campaign.
The One Campaign is a fundraising effort with the goal of raising $3.5 million dollars in support of a 72,000 square foot hospital renovation project, expanded care for the uninsured and underinsured of Hood River County and for enhanced clinician education programs.
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Providence Hood River Memorial Hospital is part of Providence Health & Services, the state’s largest health system and second-largest private employer. Providence Hood River Memorial Hospital is a full-service, critical-access hospital with a 24-hour Emergency Department. Providence offers a wide range of health care services in the communities of the Columbia River Gorge through its clinics, care centers and senior living facilities. |
