Lakeside Foundation

The Lakeside Foundation’s efforts support the purchases of exciting new technology, the development of specialized care, and expansion projects. These funds allow the Lakeside Health System to move above and beyond what could be achieved with Hospital income alone.

Former First Lady Thrills A Full House at Annual Gala

More than 850 Lakeside Health System supporters enjoyed a great evening of fun at this year's annual gala, held on December 11, 2009. An inspirational speech by former First Lady Laura W. Bush proved the evening's highlight. Sprinkled with Mrs. Bush's trademark humor, the speech delighted the crowd and brought them to their feet.

Beginning in a room full of silent auction items, gala guests moved into the Highland Ballroom of the Rochester Riverside Convention Center. There, they enjoyed an incredible meal and participated in a live auction with auctioneer Carol Ritter-Wright. Immediately afterward, gala honorary chairs David and Ilene Flaum introduced their friend, Mrs. Bush, who went on to wow the crowd. Following her talk, Mrs. Bush answered questions about everything from her thoughts and opinions on healthcare topics and what her children are doing now, to what she misses most about the White House (hint: it's the chef).

After the program wound down with a raffle drawing, newscaster Don Alhart entertained the crowd with one of his famous off-the-cuff poems that summed up the event. Dancing to the music of Nik & the Nice Guys closed out the magical evening.

Ultimately, the gala raised more than $180,000 for Lakeside Health System. Sponsors were David and Ilene Flaum, Rochester Brain and Spine, Unity Health System, Monroe Ambulance, University of Rochester Medical Center, Manning & Napier, Edward Jones Investments, Rochester Heart Institute, Radec Corporation and Roberts Wesleyan College. Home Care of Rochester, Klafehn & Heise Attorneys at Law and Rochester Riverside Convention Center gave additional support.

Why should you contribute to the Lakeside Foundation?

If you feel Lakeside has contributed to your health or well-being, a gift to the Lakeside Foundation is a way of saying "thanks.” When you make a donation to the Lakeside Foundation, you join many other area residents to ensure that exceptional, life-saving health care is available in your local community.

Health care continues to be a key component and decision-making tool for businesses, industry, and individuals looking to relocate. Lakeside Health System employs more than 700 people, making it one of the largest employers in the area. Your support will keep a major asset working within our community.

While direct donations are cordially accepted, the Lakeside Foundation also offers a variety of special events to appeal to the community, including The Kevin C. Nacy Golf Classic, Gymkhana, BISCO/Lakeside Duck Derby, Win Big Lottery and Casino Night, Clarkson Classic 5K and the Annual Gala Dinner. The dinner, rated as one of the signature events of the Rochester area, has enjoyed famous speakers such as Presidents George Bush and Gerald Ford, Rudy Giuliani and former Prime Minister John Major, Dr. Ronan Tynan and Dr. Benjamin Carson

You can also contribute to Lakeside by giving through our annual appeal and gifts in honor or memory of your loved ones or you can use your "will power" by remembering Lakeside in your will. These thoughtful donors will be a caring presence in many lives, for many lifetimes.

The Lakeside Health System is a not-for-profit organization and your gift is tax deductible to the full extent of the law.

Lakeside also receives grants from local and national corporations and foundations. The very prestigious Kresge Foundation granted a $300,000 challenge grant to be used for the renovation of the Maternity Unit several years ago.

The Foundation sincerely appreciates the community's long standing tradition of support. The support of the community is essential to maintain the delivery of “Personal, Trusted Care”.

Please feel free to contact us by calling 585-395-6049: