2024 Gratitude Report
Your gifts made a difference
You’re easing the health journey of so many. Thank you.
It’s been an incredible year working with you to advance exceptional care and life-changing services across western Montana. Your impact can be seen and felt by patients and caregivers in both of our hospitals and by grateful guests who stay at St. Patrick House.
Nurses looking to continue their education, out-oftown patients needing extra support and a comfortable stay, or people at high-risk for breast cancer needing assistance to pay for mammograms – you have supported the essential needs of our communities. You’ve also purchased advanced technology and accelerated innovative research that is saving lives.
As a former nurse, I’ve witnessed firsthand the profound impact your generosity has on our health care teams. Your dedication to making a difference inspires us daily. Thank you for caring deeply about the well-being of our patients and for standing with us in our Mission to serve all.
I’m excited by the future and what we can accomplish together, and I’m so grateful for your partnership in this vital work.
Stephanie Goble, MSN, BA, RN Chief Philanthropy Officer Providence Montana Health Foundation
Here are some of the ways your gifts made a difference in 2024
Capital improvements to Providence St. Patrick Hospital and Providence
St. Joseph Medical Center
Support for patient programs and research
St. Patrick House operational expenses, supplies and repairs
First Steps program for child and adult victims of abuse or assault
Total amount donated $ 9,248,848
$385K $147K $370K
$68K
Providence Montana Health Foundation Board of Directors
Gregory Kazemi, M.D., chair
Mary Jo Jackson, vice chair
Alice Marquardt, CFP, treasurer
Susie Thomas, secretary
Tom Severson, chair emeritus
Ronald Bone
Sandra Davis
Sarsfield Dougherty, M.D.
Stephen Hiro, M.D.
Anne Hoppie, MSN, RN, OCN
William McCarthy
Richard Myers, M.D.
Drew Rieker, CPA/ABV
Stefanie Silvan
Daniel Spoon, M.D.
Blair Sprunk
Amy Tykeson
Jeremy Williams, MHL, BSN, RN
St. Patrick House offers temporary housing for out-of-town patients and loved ones.
Anyone who walks through the front door will be greeted with a smile, fresh coffee and amenities made possible through generous donations.
Photos showcase the warm, welcoming environment provided for guests at St. Patrick House.
Out-of-town patients find hospitality
From rocking chairs on the front porch to a pot of coffee ready in the kitchen, St. Patrick House invites comfort and conversation.
Most guests at St. Patrick House are facing a life-altering event: undergoing a major cardiac procedure, supporting a loved one through a serious health emergency or returning for critical care. In 2024, St. Patrick House opened its doors to more than 2,000 guests from across Montana and beyond.
An emergency stay led to a fundraising purpose Brent Hildebrand is now a senior philanthropy officer focused on fundraising for St. Patrick House. But his experience with the house began almost 20 years ago. When he was a freshman at the University of Montana, he tumbled 300 feet down a cliff in the Bitterroot’s Blodgett Canyon and was life-flighted to Providence St. Patrick Hospital.
Brent’s mom drove to Missoula from Portland to be by his side in the intensive care unit as he began his road to recovery from several broken bones. A nurse told Brent’s mom about St. Patrick House, a beautiful, historic home for out-of-town patients and loved ones, just like her.
"St. Patrick House is a home away from home and a micro-community of support. I’m so grateful St. Patrick House was there for my mom, and I’m honored to raise awareness and support for a place that meant so much to my family during a difficult time.”
-- Brent Hildebrand, senior philanthropy officer
In 2024, St. Patrick House donors supported a safe, comfortable, welcoming place for:
More than 2,000 guests: 1,917 adults and 246 children
3,115 nights of stays, including $14,600 of no-cost lodging (equivalent of 325 nights)
Guests from 31 counties in Montana and 23 states, as well as British Columbia and South Korea
Grateful guest enjoys the caring environment at St. Patrick House
Living in Clyde Park, Kenny Flaherty drives 500 miles round trip for ongoing care at Providence St. Patrick Hospital in Missoula, and he always stays at St. Patrick House.
Without that lodging option, it would be next to impossible for Kenny to receive the lifesaving medical care he’s needed these past several years. But Kenny has been as much a gift to St. Patrick House as it has been to him. There are days Kenny steps out and plays his guitar in the hallway, and guests flock to the music to enjoy the companionship and even join in song. Kenny brings the guests together, which he’s happy to do, citing the ways the house and its staff have helped save his life.
Exceptional care along with companionship
Kenny’s smile helps light up the whole house – while drinking a cup of coffee, through conversation during a game of cards or simply while enjoying the sunshine through the dining room windows. He has a special relationship with St. Patrick House and its team because they’ve always been there for him, even when other parts of life have felt less certain.
“At one point in my life, I was homeless, sleeping in my car and desperately needing medical care. It’s amazing what St. Patrick House has done for me.”
-- Kenny Flaherty, grateful guest
St. Patrick House aims to serve the whole person, providing camaraderie and support in a healing environment as guests face some of the most vulnerable times in their lives.
Kenny joyfully plays his guitar while staying at St. Patrick House.
Left: Brent Hildebrand welcomes guest in through St. Patrick House's front door.
Welcoming a new executive leader
Caryl Perdaems joins Providence St. Joseph Medical Center in Polson as new chief administrative officer.
Caryl Perdaems joined the Providence family following a lengthy health care career throughout Montana, most recently serving as the chief practice officer at Great Falls Clinic and Hospital. Prior to that, she served as the system director of operations leading primary care, procedural and surgical specialties with Bozeman Health.
Caryl has spent much of her time in critical access hospitals and hospital settings. She is a strong advocate for community health and understands the crucial role of philanthropy in meeting rural health needs.
“Growing up in rural North Dakota, I understand how important critical access hospitals are—the true heartbeat of any community. We will continue to expand relationships and grow our care offerings."
- Caryl Perdaems, chief administrative officer
PROVIDENCE ST. JOSEPH MEDICAL CENTER
PROVIDENCE ST. JOSEPH MEDICAL CENTER
Steadfast health care in rural Montana
Overlooking Flathead Lake, Providence St. Joseph Medical Center is more than a beloved facility; it’s a lifeline to critical care and services.
You don’t have to go far to find caregivers connecting as a team, mingling like a family. That’s what makes Providence St. Joseph Medical Center special. Our caregivers show up for each other just as much as they do for the community. When a longtime volunteer passed away, dozens of caregivers, along with family and friends, contributed to a fund in her honor. Those gifts ensure her impact lives on to honor the many lives she changed. Because of you, Providence St. Joe's can provide for the critical needs of caregivers, patients and their loved ones. Your gifts come in all sizes – a swaddle for a newborn baby, remodeled steps so caregivers can access the building safely, and hygiene supplies for an incredible St. Joe’s nurse who fills the gap for the school district, serving kids in the Polson area.
Community makes up who we are, and we feel your generous support at St. Joe’s. You support our leaders, addressing a rural physician shortage and finding creative ways to engage those who are new to the medical field.
The range of services offered here wouldn’t be possible without philanthropic funding: maternity care, pediatric services, family medicine and emergency services. All of these require state-ofthe-art technology in a top-grade facility. Providence St. Joe's is more than just a place for medical treatment; it is a cornerstone of the Polson community.
As health care continues to evolve, our caregivers remain steadfast in the Providence Mission. They serve and uplift the residents of Polson and neighboring rural communities, ensuring that everyone has access to the compassionate and comprehensive care they deserve.
We are excited to share more about community investment at St. Joe’s in the coming months. Thank you for being part of this life-changing work.
Top: Megan Beard, senior philanthropy officer at Providence St. Joseph Medical Center
Bottom: A perfect blend of Polson landmarks: Flathead Lake and the Mission Mountains
When you give to Providence St. Joseph Medical Center, you support a community of caregivers who go above and beyond to provide exceptional, compassionate care.
Taking care of man’s best friend
A young man arrived in the St. Joe's ER in crisis, accompanied by his loyal dog—his source of comfort after profound loss. Understanding their bond, caregivers came together, providing food, bowls and support. Security officers ensured the pup got fresh air and breaks. When the patient was transferred to inpatient care, the team found a foster family, ensuring a reunion when the patient was ready.
School nurses provide hugs and a little love
St. Joe’s nurses have been serving in the Polson Public School District since April 2023. Some students need more than medical care; they may be hungry, lack clothing or winter gear, need hygiene essentials, or simply need rest after a sleepless night. With compassion, the nurses step in to help, making trusted connections and referrals.
A chapel wedding, just in time
When a patient with a terminal brain tumor began declining, it became clear she might not be able to leave the hospital to witness her son’s wedding. Her care team stepped in with compassion and brought the wedding to her. Nurses decorated the chapel, arranged flowers and helped her get ready, ensuring she could share in her son’s special day surrounded by love.
Toddler’s Easter egg hunt
A 3-year-old boy was receiving treatment for respiratory concerns when the nursing staff learned he missed the Easter egg hunt. They got permission from his family to hide colorful eggs around the department so the toddler and his brother could have a fun and colorful experience while in a hospital environment.
A QUIET LEGACY OF LOVE
Honoring pillars of the Polson community
Pat Binger and her family have made the largest single gift in Providence St. Joseph history—an extraordinary act of generosity to expand access to care in our region.
For decades, the Bingers worked their land in Big Arm while instilling in their children the value of hard work and the importance of community stewardship. Pat, ever humble, often said her face is not well known, yet countless have witnessed her quietly volunteering, supporting initiatives and teaching her family the sacred duty of giving back.
The transformational donation is deeply rooted in their family’s own experiences of compassionate care at Providence St. Joseph over the years. Pat treasured the memories of giving birth to two of her children and welcoming two grandchildren at the hospital. One of the family's most beloved holiday traditions was driving by the St. Joe's nativity scene each year after Christmas Eve service.
“We’ve been blessed to call Polson home. St. Joe’s has always been there for our family, and we hope this gift will ensure others receive the same compassionate care for generations.”
--
Pat Binger, donor and Big Arm rancher
The Binger family’s choice to entrust Providence St. Joseph’s with this historic gift is especially poignant. In rural communities like ours, the hospital is a cornerstone of well-being, touching lives at some of our most pivotal moments. Through their generosity, the Bingers are ensuring that future generations will have access to vital medical services close to home, reinforcing the foundation of health care in our region.
This act of generosity is a profound message to future generations about the power of community investment and our shared responsibility to build a stronger tomorrow. We celebrate the Bingers’ generosity and the lifetime of service that precedes it—a legacy woven into the very fabric of our community.
Pat stands next to the Flathead Monster sculpture at Sacajawea Park in Polson, which she funded for the community.
Surrounded by loved ones, Pat Binger passed away due to cancer on Feb. 27, 2025. "We are at peace knowing she is singing, laughing and dancing in heaven," her family said.
HONOR YOUR CAREGIVER
Grateful patient pays it forward
Sandra drove from Belgrade to Missoula for a heart procedure and returned home a few days later, but she never felt alone.
With decorated hearts, caregivers share their own motivation to continue the important work at Providence Heart Institute in Montana.
A healthy and active lifestyle paid off for Sandra until December 2023 when she experienced a heart arrhythmia. She was referred to Providence Heart Institute in Missoula where a comprehensive evaluation revealed that Sandra needed a valve replacement. Her surgeon, J. Tod Maddux, M.D., said the procedure would be minimally invasive. She could schedule it between her two grandsons' college graduations.
Sandra arrived in Missoula on a Monday and checked in to St. Patrick House. “It was the most wonderful place. I just loved it,” she said. Dr. Maddux performed the procedure Tuesday, and Sandra was discharged Wednesday afternoon. She went back to St. Patrick House and spent the evening sitting in a rocking chair on the front porch and exchanging stories with the other guests. She felt a sense of community and support in this vulnerable time.
Sandra slept for 12 hours and woke up feeling “different.” She called her daughter and cried. “I can feel my heartbeat again,” Sandra said. She hadn’t realized her heartbeat had grown fainter before the procedure.
Before the drive back home, Sandra made a gift to St. Patrick House. “I thought it was so important to pay it forward,” she said. Sandra is also grateful to her caregivers.
“It was a life-altering experience. My caregivers were so uplifting. They knew I would be OK.”
-- Sandra, valve replacement patient
Months later Sandra gave a gift to the structural heart program to show gratitude for her care.
LEADING-EDGE
New bypass machine for the heart institute
This lifesaving technology will open more opportunities for patient procedures at Providence Heart Institute in Montana.
Donors Carl and Neta McAfee funded a new cardiopulmonary bypass machine that provides essential technology for the cardiac catheterization laboratory, speeding response time in case of emergency.
The longtime Missoulians were inspired by a visit to Providence Heart Institute where they learned how philanthropy makes a difference in providing top-tier care.
“Carl and I have lived in Missoula since 1971, and St. Pat's has always been a special place to us,” Neta said. “The doctors and the staff are amazing!”
A cardiopulmonary bypass machine takes over for the heart and lungs during cardiac surgery. Having this machine in the cardiac catheterization lab gives physicians lifesaving back-up equipment during complicated procedures. The rate of complications for minimally invasive procedures in the lab is very low, but caregivers must be prepared if emergency surgery is needed.
Before this donation, the hospital had two bypass machines. Both were often needed by surgeons performing open-heart surgeries in the operating rooms. With both machines in use, physicians were unable to schedule certain procedures in the cath lab. Now, with an additional machine in the cath lab, the heart teams can provide lifesaving surgeries in the operating rooms and have back-up for emergencies that may arise in the cath lab, preventing any delays in care.
“We are a much safer facility because of this tremendous gift, and we will be able to help many more patients each year.”
-- Matthew Eull, manager of cardiovascular services
Neta and Carl believe in the medical advancements at Providence St. Patrick. “The bypass machine will save lives and will help the doctors in so many ways. We are thankful every day that we can help in this way,” they said.
Carl and Neta graciously funded the entire cost of the bypass machine.
A specially trained team provides a coordinated trauma response
First Step reduces trauma and promotes healing for child victims of abuse and adult victims of sexual assault.
Care teams are available 24/7, year-round to offer compassionate guidance and support for victims of abuse and assault.
First Step Resource Center, a National Children’s Allianceaccredited children’s advocacy center at Providence St. Patrick Hospital, provides medical evaluations, forensic interviews, mental health services, care coordination and referrals for child and adult victims of abuse or assault.
Without an advocacy center like First Step, children in suspected abuse cases could be interviewed multiple times in sterile, unfamiliar environments by different clinicians, potentially causing additional trauma. Now children and their trusted caregivers can come to First Step and be interviewed one time in a trauma-informed setting and receive access to medical care and mental health support. And, at First Step, instead of receiving care in an emergency department, adults reporting sexual assault can do so in a quiet, welcoming space. Donations support these vital services.
A teenage boy recently came into the clinic in need of help. He was seen by the same nurse he had seen five years ago after experiencing sexual assault as a child. He told her that one reason he felt OK coming back was because he remembered feeling safe the first time.
In early 2024, First Step added a second mental health provider, furthering its impact, thanks to donations and grant funding.
“Generous donations and grant funding continue to support our program to offer services at no cost to clients. This truly is a community supported program.”
-- Mary Pat Hansen, APRN, clinical supervisor, First Step Resource Center
Since 2000, First Step has provided 8,862 evaluations. In 2024, First Step completed 440 evaluations (348 children and 92 adults), as well as provided 1,163 mental health therapy sessions and 368 care coordination/advocacy sessions.
PROVIDENCE ST. PATRICK HOSPITAL VOLUNTEERS
Former patient thoughtfully volunteers to support those currently receiving care
Rohit “Roy” Patel was a patient in the infusion center and now helps others once a week.
Roy knows what it’s like to sit for hours receiving an infusion. He now returns to Providence St. Patrick Hospital every Friday to support caregivers and patients in the infusion center. He is close with many of the caregivers because he received treatment there twice.
As a volunteer, he stocks supplies, including bandages and syringes, and escorts patients to get X-rays. He has developed special relationships to make the patients more comfortable.
“I have become very close with the patients. I know their coffee orders; I know what they like to eat and drink; I know that one patient likes two warm blankets and one pillow. I make sure to have what they need to provide support while they are going through a tough time,” Roy said.
Many patients in the infusion center are receiving treatment for cancer. Caregivers were surprised when they saw Roy back in the department and they asked why he was back. Roy assured them he had a volunteer badge; he was officially part of the team now.
“I love the nurses and doctors and have created a close bond with them. I have become close to the patients as well, and it makes me happy when I am able to make them smile by bringing them something or making a silly joke. These small moments make me want to keep coming back.”
-- Roy Patel, former patient and volunteer
Volunteers are a pillar of our foundation. This gift of time is another wonderful way to support our hospital and the community that relies on us. If you would like to become a volunteer, please call volunteer services at 406-329-5801.
Roy smiles while on a volunteer shift at Providence St. Patrick Hospital.
CAREGIVER DEVELOPMENT
Donations give caregivers new opportunities
Scholarships, training and recognition for innovative practice are all made possible by generous gifts.
During this crucial time for health care recruitment and retention, your generosity is making a lasting impact—helping caregivers further their education and celebrate industry achievements.
Molly Shepherd, a dedicated donor and former member of the community mission board for Providence Montana has made significant contributions to the Joyce Dombrouski Nursing Fund. Thanks to her and other dedicated donors, twice as many nurses are receiving scholarships, strengthening the future of patient care.
Ashley Butler is a repeat scholarship recipient in her final year of the Radiologic Technology Program at Missoula College. She is pursuing a career in radiology.
“The financial assistance has been instrumental in helping me manage my educational expenses while working part-time. Thank you for your generous support,” said Ashley.
Honor for Providence St. Patrick Hospital nurses
For the third time, Providence St. Patrick Hospital has been recognized as a Magnet hospital—a prestigious designation awarded to health care organizations that demonstrate excellence in patient care, nursing innovation and professional practice. This recognition is the highest national honor for nursing excellence.
On Oct. 31, 2023, Providence St. Patrick Hospital received its third Magnet designation. One year later, 15 Providence St. Patrick nurses attended the 2024 ANCC Magnet Conference in New Orleans, Louisiana, to celebrate this achievement.
“Thank you for the opportunity to go to the nursing Magnet conference. I brought back ideas to implement at our hospital to not only boost our patient outcomes, but our staff satisfaction,” said Jacob Yahrmatter, RN, assistant nurse manager.
Top: Montana caregivers enjoy giving back to the community by participating in events such as 'stuff the truck' during Thanksgiving.
Bottom: Jeremy Williams, a nurse at Providence St. Patrick Hospital for six years, received the DAISY Award for nursing leadership.
RURAL HEALTH RESEARCH COLLABORATIVE
Donors fully fund a rural health project
Providence Montana and the University of Montana are working together to provide opportunities for rural health research.
Longtime donors Bill and Dr. Jeanne Wilson were so inspired by the rural health research collaborative that they decided to fully fund the first phase of the project. This funding ensures resources to deploy, test and scale innovations that transform rural health care.
Providence Clinical Innovation Institute, University of Montana’s research teams and local physicians are working together to meet the needs of rural communities, including critical access hospitals and rural referral
Bill and Dr. Jeanne Wilson joyfully support several causes at Providence St. Patrick Hospital.
centers. “This will provide much needed support for rural physicians,” said Jeanne, who has practiced as a nurse and obstetrician gynecologist. “Patients will be cared for in their own communities instead of having to travel hundreds of miles.”
The demand on rural physicians
Rural physicians often feel professionally isolated, leading to burnout and high turnover rates. Some move back to urban areas after encountering poor prospects to enroll patients in research trials. Currently rural physicians have no dedicated research time, even though they are best positioned to know what is needed in their own communities. This collaborative will provide resources for rural physicians to impact their own communities and advance health outcomes in rural areas.
A cause to support
With incredible generosity, Bill and Jeanne have given to various causes at Providence St. Patrick Hospital where they have been patients and supported loved ones through care. They were drawn to the research collaborative because it will impact generations of patients and care teams.
“We have great confidence in the people that are leading in this project,” said Bill. “This collaborative will be the catalyst for significant movement and change in rural health care outcomes.”
THANK YOU TO OUR DONORS
You made a difference in 2024
Your gifts advance exceptional care, right here, close to home.
From a patient traveling hours for a critical procedure to a community member relying on top-tier care close to home, your gifts ease the way for every health journey. Providence Montana strives to provide the best health care in our region with a focus on reaching our most vulnerable communities; providing recruiting opportunities for rural health care; delivering excellent cardiac care; and offering a welcoming place to stay at St. Patrick House. These pillars are possible because of your unwavering support to make sure everyone across western Montana has access to quality health care.
“I want to thank everyone at Providence St. Patrick Hospital. On a scale of 1-10,
you guys operated at 11.”
-- Ike, grateful out-of-town patient who gave a gift after emergency care
Kelly and Machelle traveled from Eureka to Missoula for Kelly’s care. A nurse told them about St. Patrick House. “It’s a wonderful place. It’s very welcoming and peaceful and comforting. They make it feel just like home,” Kelly said.
Thanks to you, our Montana Cancer Center fund offsets transportation, lodging and preventive costs for patients facing difficult diagnoses. Sometimes a tank of gas means much more than the cost; it helps patients realize they aren’t alone.
Providence Montana Health Foundation staff: Brynn Molloy, philanthropy officer
Janet Kaufman, operations manager
Hayley Stengem, associate philanthropy assistant Brent Hildebrand, senior philanthropy officerSt.Patrick House
Stephanie Goble, MSN, BSN, RNC, BA, chief philanthropy officer Megan Beard, senior philanthropy officer –Providence St. Joseph Medical Center not pictured: Tammy Whitehead, volunteer services manager
“As
I near the end of my chemo journey, I want to express my deepest gratitude. This road has been extremely challenging, but your care, support and kindness has made all the difference.”
-- A cancer patient at Providence St. Patrick Hospital
St. Patrick Hospital.