Thanks to the incredible generosity of businesses and individuals from the four counties it serves, Hospice of the Chesapeake’s new fundraiser, Bubbles and Bingo, raised $360,000 to support the patients and families who turn to them during life’s most challenging moments.
The black-tie affair was held Saturday evening at the Atreeum at Soar Timbers in Annapolis, Maryland, and included gourmet fare and bubbly. After a cocktail hour, guests watched a video featuring three Hospice of the Chesapeake clinical team members. Each shared their experience as family members whose loved ones were cared for by hospice. These moments changed their lives, inspiring them as they care for patients living with progressive illness and their families every day.
After a standing ovation to honor and thank these professionals, guests rallied to raise their paddles to offer donations. Then the bingo games began, with 5 guests walking away with prize packages ranging in value from $2,500 to $8,500.
The organization wishes to thank its sponsors, including John & Cathy Belcher, The Jim and Linda Humphrey Foundation, The John T. Baldwin Family; Dorothy Goodson, Bill and Arlene Baldwin; Medicine with a Mission; Nancy Smit & Julien Hecht; Amy Castleberry; Davies Family Foundation; John and Terri Hussman; Janis Kramer and Maria Colucciello; Maryland Oncology and Hematology; Shore United Bank; University of Maryland Baltimore Washington Medical Center; and Zachary’s Jewelers. Also, Anne Arundel Dermatology; The Baldwin Corporation; FreeState Title Services; Idea Solutions; Sturbridge Homes; University of Maryland Charles Regional Medical Center; and What’s Up? Media.
Gratitude also goes to the event’s underwriters, including Barcraft Construction, LLC; Merrill Lynch Wealth Management — Murray, McGehrin & Shiery; Mullen, Sondberg, Wimbish and Stone, P.A.; Brightview Senior Living Annapolis and Severna Park; Milestones Financial Services; and Peggy McKelly.
“Because of this amazing support, we can continue providing compassionate hospice, supportive, and bereavement care for those facing serious illness and loss,” Executive Director Christine Wilson said. “This generosity ensures dignity, comfort, and unwavering support for every patient and family in our community.”
Fundraising is an important role in the organization. As Maryland’s largest independent not-for-profit hospice, the philanthropy of businesses, organizations and individuals means people are never turned away from care, regardless of their inability to pay.
Two more events are planned this spring — Boots and Bling: A Culinary Experience will take place from 6 to 10 p.m. May 9 at the Rod ‘N’ Reel Resort in Chesapeake Beach, Maryland, and Fashion for a Cause returns 6 to 9:30 p.m. June 5 to the U. S. Naval Academy’s Fluegel Alumni Center in Annapolis. For tickets or sponsorship and underwriting opportunities, contact the events team at 443-837-1531 or events@hospicechesapeake.org, or visit https://www.hospicechesapeake.org/giving/attend-an-event.
All photos taken March 29 at the Atreeum at Soaring Timbers, Annapolis, Maryland, by Alison Harbaugh, Sugar Farm Productions. High resolution photos available upon request.
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- Pictured from left, Kimberlee Shaw, Michelle Henderson and Karen Crosby. Crosby was featured in a video played during the event to highlight three clinical Hospice of the Chesapeake team members whose own experience with hospice care inspires her work as a registered nurse every day. Crosby has worked for the nonprofit for nearly 24 years.
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- Hospice of the Chesapeake President and CEO Becky Miller, standing, visits with guests between bingo games.
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- Three guests shouted “Bingo” at the same time for the fifth and final game, resulting in a drawing to determine the winner. Ruth Baldwin, far right, won the prize. The runners-up are Sam Brown, left, and John T. Baldwin, center.