Generosity at work: Veterans Memorial Health Care Foundation accomplishments in 2025

Thanks to the generosity of local donors, memorial gifts, and grant funding, the Veterans Memorial Health Care Foundation made significant investments in patient care, safety, and education throughout 2025. Contributions supported new equipment, staff training, and major facility improvements that directly benefit patients across the region.

“Before stepping into this role a year ago, I never fully realized just how much of an impact public generosity has on our hospital,” said Beth Shafer, Growth and Development Coordinator. “Seeing firsthand where these dollars go - and how directly they improve patient care - has been truly eye-opening and incredibly humbling.”

Donations to the annual direct mailing appeal introduced in late 2024 fully funded the purchase of a cardiac rehabilitation treadmill for the Cardio-pulmonary Rehabilitation Program. 

Memorials and general donations to the Foundation as well as grants fully funded several other important purchases including a pain management treatment table, a podiatry treatment chair, over bed tables for the obstetrics unit, a surgical tourniquet, diabetes education workbooks, an ambulance binder lift, and a convection oven for nutrition services.

Memorial funds also covered required staff education through a Home Care Conference, ensuring care teams remain up to date on best practices and patient safety standards. Combined donor and grant support provided full funding for a LIFEPAK monitor/defibrillator in the Emergency Department, strengthening the hospital’s ability to respond to cardiac emergencies. Separate fundraising efforts are ongoing for a LIFEPAK monitor/defibrillator for an ambulance, which will expand advanced cardiac care in the field once fully funded.

In addition, donations and grants are supporting the Postville Clinic expansion project, which is currently underway. Contributions have been designated for both facility improvements and new clinic equipment. Community members who wish to support the project may still make contributions. That campaign is just $30,000 away from the goal.

“None of this would be possible without an incredibly dedicated Foundation Board of Directors,” Shafer added. “They donate their time and talents, especially in planning and promoting our two major fundraisers - the annual Golf Tournament and Christmas Fantasy. Their dedication, combined with community support, is what turns generosity into lasting impact.”

Every gift, large or small, leaves a lasting impact, helping to strengthen health services for the communities served by Veterans Memorial Hospital (VMH). The Veterans Memorial Health Care Foundation extends its sincere thanks to all donors and grant partners whose generosity honors loved ones and improves care for patients throughout the region.

For more information or to give to the Veterans Memorial Health Care Foundation, feel free to contact Beth Shafer, Growth and Development Coordinator, at 563-568-3411.