2024 Gratitude Report
Letter from Twyla Rist and Laurie McCormack
At AdventHealth Kansas City Foundation, we believe in whole-person care—nurturing the body, mind and spirit. This year, we have been moved by the unwavering dedication of individuals like you. Your support drives our mission to inspire a healthier Kansas City through the power of generosity.
In this annual report, we are proud to share the incredible impact your giving has had. Because of you, programs are thriving, new spaces are being created and families are receiving the care they need to live healthier, fuller lives. Your support truly makes this possible—and for that, we are deeply thankful.
What you’re doing matters. Your partnership empowers us to keep reaching higher, to bring hope to those in need, and to help transform our community for the better. Together, we are building a future where everyone can heal, grow and thrive.
From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for being a vital part of this important journey. We couldn’t do this without you, and we are so honored to be by your side.
With deepest gratitude,
Twyla Rist | CHAIR
Laurie McCormack | EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
The greatest wealth is health.
Laurie McCormack
Twyla Rist
Ricky’s Snack Shack: A Grateful Patient’s Legacy Lives On
In October 2021, when Ricky St. John was diagnosed with cancer, his world—and his family’s—was turned upside down. A longtime grocery industry veteran, Ricky’s true passion was helping others. Even during treatment, he found comfort in sharing snacks—crackers, granola bars, Wintergreen mints—with fellow patients and caregivers, offering moments of relief during tough days.
Ricky and his wife, Cindy, also organized a staff appreciation event to thank the caregivers who supported him. Their gratitude was unwavering, and they wanted to give back in any way they could.
After Ricky’s passing in June 2022, Cindy was determined to honor his memory. Instead of flowers, she asked friends and family to donate to the AdventHealth Kansas City Foundation in support of the Cancer Institute, raising nearly $50,000. With AdventHealth’s support, Ricky’s Snack Shack was born—a space in the infusion center where patients, families, and caregivers can pause during long treatment sessions.
“The Foundation is the conduit that helps people express gratitude and memorialize those dear to them,” said Laurie McCormack, Executive Director of the AdventHealth Kansas City Foundation. “And the Snack Shack is just an example of that. In the end, Ricky is helping people forever.”
The Snack Shack is more than a place for snacks; it’s a space for connection and a reminder that kindness matters. It stands as a tribute to Ricky’s generous spirit.
In February, near Ricky’s birthday, Cindy hosted another staff appreciation event for the Cancer Institute team, ensuring his legacy of goodwill continues. At AdventHealth, we believe gratitude is part of the healing process. If you’re a grateful patient or know someone who is, reach out—let’s find a way for you to stay involved.
The Foundation is the conduit that helps people express gratitude and memorialize those dear to them.
LAURIE MCCORMACK
Honoring Ricky St. John’s life—one snack at a time
It was important to me to participate in a medical mission that could provide a sustainable and lasting difference. By partnering with the local hospital, we can educate and work towards better healthcare in the community.
ANDREA TRILLO
Fostering hope and care in Africa
First Mission Trip to Kenya Brings Healing to 8-Year-Old Yasin
In February 2024, AdventHealth sent its first mission team to Kenya—not just to provide medical care, but to build a lasting partnership. The team worked with Kendu Adventist Hospital in Homa Bay County, where healthcare is scarce and the need is overwhelming.
Among the many powerful stories that emerged, one stood out: 8-year-old Yasin. Almost a year earlier, Yasin had fallen from a tree, breaking his leg and leaving the bone exposed and infected. His mother, unable to afford the surgery he needed, carried him every day, helplessly watching his condition worsen. Even after leaving Kenya, the AdventHealth team couldn’t stop thinking about Yasin. Moved by his courage, they joined forces to raise the money needed for his surgery. Thanks to their efforts and the support of generous donations, Yasin received the care he needed and is now back on his feet.
But Yasin’s story is just one example of the profound need in Kenya. The hospital is overwhelmed by a constant influx of patients and lacks essential equipment, including a CT scanner and a dedicated accident and emergency department. Every day, more people arrive than can be treated.
AdventHealth Regional CIO Andrea Trillo, a member of the mission trip, shared her reflections: “It’s overwhelming to think about the needs in Africa. We didn’t have enough time, people, supplies or money. Each morning, there were people waiting at the gate, and by evening, some were sleeping there, hoping to receive care. My hope is that our newly established partnership and recurring visits amplify the impact of each visiting group.”
The work is just beginning. By partnering with Kendu Adventist Hospital, AdventHealth aims to educate and work towards better healthcare for this community.
You can be part of this mission. Donate to the Medical Missions fund at AdventHealth Foundation and help provide sustainable life-changing care for children like Yasin—and countless others still waiting for help.
Compassionate Behavioral Care Now, Hope for Tomorrow
For more than 50 years, AdventHealth Shawnee Mission has worked alongside local partners to provide vital behavioral health care through outpatient and inpatient programs and some of the most advanced behavioral health treatment options. Yet, demand continues to outpace resources. That’s why, in November 2024, AdventHealth Kansas City Foundation gathered more than 100 community leaders to celebrate 50 years of care and launch a $15 million campaign to expand services at the Shawnee Mission Campus.
“Behavioral health impacts every facet of our community,” said Laurie McCormack, Executive Director of the Foundation. “This campaign is about creating a place of hope, healing, and innovation for the next 50 years.”
Moderated by Taylor Hemness of KSHB 41 News, the event featured a powerful panel: Kellie Strube, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor; Rachel Goff, Grateful Patient; Amy Campbell, Kansas Mental Health Coalition; and Kevin Timmons, Founder of Fore the Kids Foundation. They shared personal and professional insights about the mental health crisis in our community.
Nearly $7 million has already been raised toward the campaign. When complete, the campaign will fund the completion of the first floor of the new behavioral health outpatient clinic, create dedicated space for the Intensive Outpatient Program, and renovate the acute care inpatient behavioral health unit. These upgrades will expand treatment options and create welcoming, healing spaces.
“We have dreams to grow our already robust intensive outpatient program to include very specialized treatment,” said Rennie Shuler-McKinney, MS, LCP, Administrative Director of Behavioral Health. Once complete, the expansion will offer a continuum of care, supporting patients throughout their treatment journeys.
As we look to the future, the need for comprehensive behavioral health services in our community has never been more critical. We invite you to join us in this transformative journey. Together, we can build a brighter, healthier future where everyone has access to the care they need.
Healing Offers Hope
When Candice White lost her teenage son to suicide in 2021, she knew she needed support. “I’ve always tried to work things out on my own, but I didn’t have that capacity after losing my son,” she shared. AdventHealth’s compassionate care helped her begin the long journey of healing, offering support and hope when she needed it most. “With the therapy and coping skills I’ve learned, I can manage the dark days. I will forever be grateful.”
EVELYN DOOLING
A Volunteer Promise Kept
Over 30 years ago, Evelyn Dooling found herself in a hospital bed, facing a life-threatening condition. She was in constant pain and uncertain of what the future held. In that moment of despair, she prayed, “God, if you get me through this, I will spend the rest of my life giving back.”
Evelyn was determined to keep her promise, though she didn’t know exactly how.
Once Evelyn was healed and able to move forward, she began volunteering at AdventHealth Shawnee Mission. What began as small, meaningful acts of service soon grew into something much bigger.
Today, Evelyn is a cherished presence at AdventHealth South Overland Park, where she plays an essential role in admitting patients for surgery. With her warm smile, she offers comfort and reassurance to patients in the midst of uncertainty. “My favorite part of this job is the people,” she says. “I get to be up and moving, helping people, and I like that.”
Every Tuesday, Evelyn arrives at the hospital at 8 a.m., ready to assist in any way she can. “Now that South Overland Park has been open for a few years, it’s busy, busy, and I just love it,” she beams. “When I see something that needs to be done, I just do it.”
Her dedication and joyful spirit are a true testament to the incredible impact of our volunteers. Through each act of kindness, Evelyn continues to fulfill the promise she made over three decades ago.
As we look back on this year, we want to express our gratitude for your ongoing support of AdventHealth. Your generosity helps sustain supplies for volunteers like Evelyn, whose selfless contributions make a meaningful difference in the lives of those who need it most.
Training for the Future
How AdventHealth’s Simulation Lab is Meeting Kansas City’s Healthcare Needs
AdventHealth Kansas City is a cornerstone of healthcare in the region, but its impact extends far beyond patient care. With the support of the AdventHealth Kansas City Foundation, innovative programs like the Zamierowski Simulation Laboratory are actively shaping the future of healthcare—addressing workforce shortages and preparing the next generation of healthcare professionals.
Established in 2017, the Simulation Lab provides a state-of-the-art training environment where multidisciplinary teams—including physicians, nurses and support staff—can enhance their skills in a collaborative, realistic setting. Now, thanks to funding initiatives supported by the Foundation, the Lab is undergoing an exciting expansion to address the growing needs of healthcare providers and the broader community.
Meeting Urgent Needs
The numbers tell a sobering story: in Johnson County, only 25% of registered nurse (RN) job postings are filled and other critical roles, like surgical technicians, face similar shortages. Meanwhile, healthcare continues to evolve, demanding a highly skilled and adaptable workforce. Recognizing this challenge, AdventHealth Kansas City is leveraging the Simulation Lab to provide advanced training and career pathways for local talent.
Through contributions to the Zamierowski Sim Lab Capital Fund, the Nurse Education and Resiliency Fund, and additional support from a Kansas Department of Commerce DRAW grant, $986,667 has been committed to doubling the number of simulation rooms, expanding classroom space and hiring a dedicated Simulation Manager. This expansion will enable the Lab to train nearly 300 new healthcare professionals over the next two years.
Shaping tomorrow’s healthcare with hands-on, high-tech training today
A Hands-On Approach to Training
Training at the Simulation Lab isn’t your typical classroom experience—it’s immersive, hands-on and surprisingly lifelike. Picture this: a nurse in training responds to a simulated emergency involving a high-tech manikin that blinks, breathes and even “bleeds.” Staff are exposed to every aspect of care, from routine procedures to high-stakes scenarios like deliveries and surgeries.
“The Foundation’s goal is to ensure programs like the Simulation Lab have the resources to help care teams thrive,” said Laurie McCormack, Executive Director for AdventHealth Kansas City Foundation. “It’s about making the impossible seem manageable and giving healthcare professionals the confidence to deliver exceptional care.”
A Legacy of Care
The expanded Simulation Lab is not just about filling positions; it’s about creating opportunities. By providing training for roles like surgical technicians, sterile processing technicians and new graduate RNs, AdventHealth Kansas City is building a career ladder that empowers individuals to grow within the healthcare field. These efforts benefit individuals, families and the broader community by offering stable, well-paying career pathways.
For more than 60 years, AdventHealth Kansas City has been a vital part of the local community. By partnering with the Foundation to invest in innovative training and workforce development, AdventHealth Kansas City is addressing today’s challenges while building a healthier, more sustainable future for Kansas City.
The Foundation’s goal is to ensure programs like the Simulation Lab have the resources to help care teams thrive. It’s about making the impossible seem manageable and giving healthcare professionals the confidence to deliver exceptional care.
Charity Golf Classic
AdventHealth KC Foundation’s Charity Golf Classic was held on Monday, September 23, at Blue Hills Country Club, raising $124,185 for the Unrestricted Fund, which provides support for unexpected and urgent needs. We’re grateful to 2024 Event Chair Ronda White and the planning committee – Sheri Johnson, Jay Kim and Kathy Saunders – for their leadership.
$124,185
RAISED TO ADDRESS SUDDEN & PRESSING NEEDS
Ronda White, Event Chair
JE Dunn Construction
U.S. Engineering
AdventHealth Championship Staff
Special Recognition
BACKGROUND: (left to right) Andrew Peterson, Dave Ruf, Andrew Linafelter, Bruce Anderson
BOTTOM RIGHT: Afternoon wave listening to the player briefing before heading out
BOTTOM LEFT: (left to right) Ronda White, Event Chair, Laurie McCormack, Nathan Marticke, Matt Foland, BHCC Golf Professional
Event Chairs Sara and Matt Bloomfield
Tiny Tim Holiday Fantasy
This year’s Tiny Tim Holiday Fantasy, held on Thursday, November 7, at the Overland Park Convention Center, raised an impressive $1,150,526 to benefit children and families served at the B.E. Smith Family Center. Matt and Sara Bloomfield, 2024 Event Chairs, led the event, with support from planning committee members Jim Butler, Lindsay Jager, Kathie Lumbard,
Dr. Leah Ridgway, Kathy Saunders and Ronda White.
A heartfelt thank you to Jennifer and Rex Hudler, our emcees; the Nigro Brothers Auction Team; and our Festive Fashion Faceoff contestants: Greg Highbarger, Amy Milroy, The Golden Scoopers, Jack Fuller, Lola Kernell, and Drs. Jodi and Stuart Jackson. We are also deeply grateful to our top
$1,150,526
sponsors: Gary and Stephanie Goscha, Doug and Nan Smith, Maddie’s Mission Foundation, AdventHealth Shawnee Mission Medical Staff, Richard and Barbara Shull, Mark Gilman, MedDevelopment, the Olivia Bloomfield Foundation, Kelly Construction and IBEW Local Union 124.
Tinsel & Tidings
Exciting news! The event has a new name beginning in 2025—mark your calendars for Tinsel & Tidings on Thursday, November 6.
Visit www.tinselandtidings.org for details.
Amy Milroy, Jack Fuller, Kathryn Embry, Isabella DeBrevi, Jill Witwer, Lola Kernell
Join the Champions Circle: The Power of Unrestricted Giving
In 2024, the Champions Circle continues to be a driving force for change—thanks to the generosity of compassionate supporters like you. By joining our cause, you’re helping to bring healing and hope to those facing challenges, while driving progress in whole-person health across our community.
Now entering its third year, the Champions Circle celebrates our most loyal allies—those who offer unrestricted gifts to empower AdventHealth Kansas City’s mission. These vital donations enable us to respond swiftly to emerging needs, fuel innovative solutions, and support underfunded areas of care, both within our hospitals and the wider community.
By joining the Champions Circle, you become an active partner in improving lives. With an annual gift of $1,000 or more to the Unrestricted Fund, you’ll stand alongside a powerful network of changemakers making a tangible difference.
As a member, you’ll enjoy exclusive benefits designed to keep you connected and informed:
EXCLUSIVE INSIGHTS from AdventHealth senior leadership, giving you a direct line to the heart of our mission and vision.
BEHIND-THE-SCENES TOURS that reveal the life-saving work happening in our facilities.
ADMISSION to the prestigious Night of Culinary Wellness. RECOGNITION on our website and e-news spotlight so you can share in the pride of being a true champion for health.
HEALTHY RECIPES AND MEMBERS-ONLY CONSULTATION from the Whole Health Institute, empowering you to lead a balanced and vibrant life.
I’m honored to be part of the Champions Circle, demonstrating my commitment to the mission of the AdventHealth Kansas City Foundation. The unrestricted nature of my gift ensures that resources can be directed to the areas of greatest need, making an immediate and meaningful impact.
MICHAEL BOEHM | 2024 BOARD MEMBER
Total Fundraising Activity
$509,747 for Cancer Institute Unity MRI/Linac
$1,169,003 for B.E. Smith Family Center needs, including equipment, training and development, and scholarships for Britain Development families
$370,000 for medical equipment needed in Surgery, the Birth Center, Perinatology, and Endoscopy
$62,700 to support women undergoing cancer treatment facing financial challenges through the There for You Fund
$25,256 for team member and physician well-being
$19,689 for the Friends Helping Friends employee assistance program
$6,000 to provide Dignicaps to patients receiving treatments in the Cancer Institute
$4,010,107
9,082 Gifts Received 1,650 Donors
Thanks to your support, AdventHealth Kansas City Foundation significantly enhances our community’s health. The details on this page illustrate your contributions to our mission and the allocation of gifts in 2024.
2024 Board of Directors Executive Committee
Directors
Michael A. Boehm
Stephen K. Bubb, MD
James G. Butler, Jr.
Steven P. Cline
Martin W. Cole, Jr.
Barbara YK Cusick
Timothy S. Deves
Trent Grissom
Robert V. Jackson, MD
Lindsay S. Jager
Sheri D. Johnson
Jay W. Kim
Katherine R. Lumbard
Barbara A. McGrath, MD
Carl V. Migliazzo, MD
David W. Newcomer, IV
Julie C. Pine
Leah D. Ridgway, MD
Kathy R. Saunders
M. Scott Thompson
Twyla J. Rist CHAIR
Todd E. Gafney PAST CHAIR
Jennifer C. Crable CHAIR-ELECT
D. Nicholas Withrow TREASURER
Jennifer Z. Benjamin AT-LARGE
Timothy R. Rodgers AT-LARGE
Ronda R. White AT-LARGE
Laurie D. McCormack EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Sam D. Huenergardt CEO & PRESIDENT
AdventHealth Mid-America Region
Emeritus
Kent E. Crippin (deceased)
Harriet D. Darling
Mark S. Gilman
Richard E. McEachen
Richard G. Shull
