The invitation promised “A fun-filled evening” and on Nov. 6 “Scopes for Hope” more than delivered.
Nearly 450 supporters of the Jackson County Free Health Clinic assembled at the Sheraton Kansas City Sports Complex Hotel for a night that will not soon be replicated or forgotten.
The inaugural benefit dinner and auction exceeded all fundraising goals and surpassed even the loftiest expectations, earning accolades as the best first-time event in memory.
Dr. Bridget McCandless, medical director of the free health clinic, and Carol Sue Bass, event chair, masterfully identified the keys to a successful event and nailed every one. The event committee read as a “Who’s Who” of experienced volunteers who brought their knowledge and skills to the party-planning and sponsorship solicitations.
Reflecting the mission of the clinic to partner with the local community and medical professionals, the night’s top sponsors included Landon and Sarah Rowland, St. Mary’s Medical Center, Centerpoint Medical Center, Independence Rotary, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Kansas City, Silverstein Eye Centers, Data Systems International and a list of nearly 30 table hosts representing the area’s civic and health care leaders.
The gravity of the national health-care crisis was the topic of conversation for the evening, yet the event succeeded in being lighthearted despite the sobering reality of the 40 million Americans who are currently uninsured. Decked in “creative medical” attire, students from Kansas City University of Medicine and Biosciences and members of the Truman Heartland Community Foundation Youth Advisory Council served as greeters, setting the stage for the fun-infused event.
Committee members and entertainers followed suit, sporting surgical scrubs bedecked and bedazzled with faux fur, feathers and flashes of sparkle.
JCFHC board member Jonathan Zerr proved to be an exceptional master of ceremonies employing his quick wit, familiarity with the crowd and passion for the cause to lead the evening program. Highlighting the program were the performances by Eastern Jackson County’s esteemed medical doctors. Dr. Bob Biber impressed guests with his recital of George Gershwin’s “Preludes for Piano.” The crowd was equally captivated by the performance of Beethoven’s “Moonlight Sonata” by Dr. Steve Silverstein, piano, and Dr. Johann Ohly, cello.
While the beginning of the live auction is often an opportunity for guests to make an early exit, not a soul strayed from the room as the bidding began on the eight unique items and experiences procured by the event committee. Auctioneer Duane Bransgaard was assisted by Zerr behind the mic and Gary McClure who very nearly stole the show as he carried out his task of displaying the items up for bid.
The Jackson County Free Health Clinic is celebrating its 10th year of operation as a program of the Truman Heartland Community Foundation. Through donations, grants and partnerships, the clinic is able to provide medications, vaccinations and care for about $200 per patient per year. The clinic addresses a national problem on a local level and strives to improve patients’ health so that they can work, care for their families and stay out of medical debt.
To learn more about the Jackson County Free Health Clinic, volunteer or donate, please visit www.jcfhc.org or call 816-404-6455.
