A Journey Around the World Raises $839,000 for Mission-Driven Programs
On Saturday, September 9, 2023, over 560 individuals embarked on a global adventure, Around the World! Under the nature-themed décor, Swedish Hospital staff, community leaders and friends came together in the Aon Grand Ballroom at Navy Pier to raise $839,00 for our mission-driven programs, including Food Connections, Housing Connections, and Pathways. The gala was emceed by author and TV personality, Jenniffer Weigel, and chaired by Dr. Adam & Rebecca Finkelstein.
According to Rebecca, “It was an honor for us to host the gala. Creating an event that celebrated the cultural and ethnic diversity of our patients and staff, while raising funds for programs that help our patients is incredibly rewarding. It’s wonderful to host a party, but even better when you can help those in need at the same time”.
A highlight of the evening was honoring Swedish’s past President and current CEO, Anthony Guaccio with the 2023 Spirit of Compassion Award. This award recognizes an outstanding individual who has given selflessly of themselves with compassion to make an impact on their community and others beyond the walls of Swedish Hospital. According to Swedish Hospital Foundation Board member, Chuck Adair, who presented Anthony with the award, “During the COVID-19 pandemic, Anthony was a tireless advocate for our patients and staff. With his creative entrepreneurial skills, he secured vital support from local and state leaders and has provided emotional, medical and financial assistance to employees who found themselves in crisis. Anthony’s compassion, dedication and sensitivity are an inspiration to us all.”
The Around the World Gala could not have happened without the generosity of our donors. Special thanks to our Title Sponsor, Medical Express Ambulance Service, and our Elite Sponsors, Swedish Hospital Medical Staff, Bear Construction, Continental Electric Construction Company, Covenant Trust Company, and PNC. Gratitude is also offered to our supporters – Chairs, Dr. Adam and Rebecca Finkelstein, Co-Chairs, Jonathan and Jill Lind, the gala committee, gala sponsors, and all our guests, and volunteers for making the Around the World event a resounding success!
The fun continues on Saturday, October 5, 2024, when the 67th Annual Gala will be held at the Hilton Chicago. Tickets and sponsorships are available now. Learn how you can support our next gala, by contacting the Foundation at foundation@swedishcovenant.org or 773.293.5121.