The West Tennessee Healthcare Foundation is celebrating 38 years of investing in the Jackson and West Tennessee community.
Established in 1985, The Foundation’s mission is to improve the health and well-being of the community through philanthropic initiatives. Home to 496 funds,
According to a press release from Haley Wildridge – Community Outreach Associate – West Tennessee Healthcare Foundation – The Foundation supports all aspects of the community from healthcare to the arts; education to animal welfare; housing and food security to equity and diversity. This can be found in the form of sponsorships, grants, scholarships, and direct support to agencies and individuals.
Dr. Frank McMeen, President of The Foundation, has witnessed the organization’s assets grow from less than $500,000 to $52 million during his 25 year tenure.
“I am proud of the commitment from our board and staff to serve our neighbors in need. Throughout my years of service, it has been rewarding to not only see The Foundation’s growth but to turn that growth into dollars, grants, and other programs to help our community flourish,” said McMeen.
In 2021-2022, The Foundation invested $3,453,650 back into the community:
• $2,928,966 was distributed to nonprofits.
• $186,783 was provided in individual assistance.
• $105,038 was provided for patients’ needs.
One of the ways The Foundation supports local nonprofits is through its annual Community Impact Grants. Since 2016, the grant program has awarded over $200,000 to nonprofits and funds of The Foundation that benefit the residents of Madison County.
Habitat for Humanity Jackson was a recipient of the 2021-2022 Community Impact Grants. It received $15,000 for its Aging in Place program. With funds from the grant, Habitat Jackson was able to provide completed critical repairs to seven homeowners and their families in Madison County, resulting in a $66,735 impact for nine individuals.
In addition to the new initiatives implemented over the years, The Foundation continues its tradition of the Charity Gala weekend each November. As the organization’s largest fundraiser, the Charity Gala has raised over $1,225,000 since 2009 to benefit services of West Tennessee Healthcare, including Ayers Children’s Medical Center, the Kirkland Cancer Center, and the Hospice Home Campaign.
“As we celebrate 38 years, we are also excited about the future of West Tennessee and The Foundation’s role in continuing to build a great place for our family, friends, and neighbors to call home,” said Beth Koffman, Vice President of The Foundation. “Thank you for helping us continue to make an impact and changes lives each day.”
Interested in getting involved? The Foundation offers a variety of giving opportunities along with initiatives and events throughout the year. To donate, visit https://www.wthfoundation.org/giving.
The Foundation will host the Community Impact Grants Award Celebration in June, announcing the 2023-2024 recipients. Other upcoming events for The Foundation include the West Tennessee Invitational on June 9-11, 2023 at the Jackson Tennis Center and the 33rd annual Charity Gala on November 11, 2023 in downtown Jackson.
For more information about The Foundation news and events, visit https://www.wthfoundation.org/news-events or contact Haley Wildridge at (731) 984-2146 or via email at [email protected].
(PHOTO: Dr. Frank McMeen, President of The Foundation)
