The Portage Hospital Foundation has announced changes to its annual gala, shifting the event to Friday, October 2, this year. Executive Director Tara Pettinger shared details of the update, emphasizing that the decision was made to avoid conflicting with the upcoming hospital move.
“We had to make some adjustments to potential dates for the hospital move. We didn’t want any conflicts there, so we thought we’d just move it a little bit earlier,” Pettinger explained. “We’re still going to have lots of the same things going on for the gala, but we want to make it an extra special celebration this year.”
One notable change involves the online auction, which will now close before the night of the gala. Pettinger said this adjustment allows the gala itself to remain the highlight of the evening, creating a night focused on celebration and community.
Beyond gala preparations, the foundation has been closely following the progress of the new hospital building, which has been turning heads across the community. Pettinger described the excitement of watching hospital staff explore the new space and identify opportunities for enhancements.
“It’s really cool to see different groups of staff going over and starting to get familiar with this space,” she said. “Later in April, we’re planning an activity that’s kind of a treasure hunt for staff, so they can explore the entire facility and not just their work areas. It’s a way to get everyone acquainted with this big, beautiful space.”
Pettinger added that the new hospital will have a significant impact on the community, and staff enthusiasm is growing as they envision the possibilities. She highlighted potential enhancements that the foundation could support, like murals.
Managing the transition from the current hospital to the new facility will be a carefully coordinated effort. “There’s a team of companies working on the move. It’s going to be a wild ride, but a well-oiled machine,” Pettinger said, explaining that both hospitals will operate briefly in tandem before the current site closes.
The foundation’s busy year doesn’t stop with the gala or the hospital move. Pettinger shared that the organization’s strategic plan has driven an exciting period of growth and engagement. On September 30 of this year, the foundation will host its first Annual General Meeting (AGM), providing the community with an opportunity to review the foundation’s achievements and future projects.
“We see the possibilities every day,” she said. “Thanks to our donors’ generosity, we can make healthcare in our community the greatest it can be.”
As plans for the gala, hospital move, and AGM continue to unfold, the Portage Hospital Foundation is clearly entering a milestone year. Pettinger’s enthusiasm and dedication reflect a shared excitement for what’s ahead, promising a dynamic year for the hospital and the community it serves.