National Hospice Foundation Celebration of Hospice and Palliative Care

(Alexandria, Va) – The Art of Caring National Hospice Gala was held on Friday, April 7, 2006, at the Hilton Washington in Washington, DC.  This year’s benefit for the National Hospice Foundation spotlighted caring – and care-giving – as led by the example of the gala’s Honorary Chairs, all of the living First Ladies of the United States. Noted musician Michael Feinstein will performed; and Kevin Klose, President and CEO of National Public Radio, served as Master of Ceremonies.

The evening included dinner, dancing and a special silent auction, along with NHF’s annual awards presentation.  To recognize those who have had a significant impact on hospice and palliative care, and in the overall delivery of healthcare, the Foundation saluted a leader who serves as a Healthcare Architect, and individuals who clearly demonstrate Philanthropic Inspiration, Humanitarian Leadership and Global Vision.

Noting that art, like caring, can be perfected and enjoyed in many forms, the auction showcased art appealing to all of the senses – the art of adventure (travel experiences), the art of the vine (wine), the art of style (jewelry), and the art of the fine (original artwork).  There was something for every aficionado, including a large sampling of international pieces, donated by some of the 75 members of the gala’s Honorary Ambassadorial Committee.  NHF highlighted the art of caring through the participation of hospice and palliative care organizations from across the country, and artists in the hospice family – patients, family members, staff and friends.

“As the charity for end-of-life care, the National Hospice Foundation envisions a world where individuals and families facing serious illness, death and grief will experience the best that humankind can offer,” said J. Donald Schumacher, president of NHF.  “Toward this end, The Art of Caring Gala celebrates our hope for end-of-life care, and the spirit of philanthropy and kindness at the heart of our mission.”

For more information, visit www.nationalhospicefoundation.org/2006gala

The Art of Caring
2006 Awards

Philanthropic Inspiration Virginia Brown
National Hospice Regatta Alliance

The Philanthropic Inspiration Award acknowledges the steadfast efforts of an individual who motivates others by example.   Recipients have a special passion and unparalleled commitment which has helped engender a lasting culture of philanthropy.   Virginia Brown’s inspiration has done just that.

After she and her family were able to care for her late husband, Ralph A. Beeton, at home, Mrs. Brown learned about organized hospice care from Josephina Magno, M.D., founder of the first hospice in Northern Virginia.   Asked by Dr. Magno to create a new fundraiser, Mrs. Brown was determined to do something unusual.   With a touch of chance and some creative friends and sailors, Hospice Cup, the first hospice regatta, was formed.

Hospice Cup inspired similar regattas throughout the country which Mrs. Brown helped launch, supporting each as a volunteer.   Ultimately, this network of 25 hospice regattas led to the development of a new membership organization, the National Hospice Regatta Alliance.

In 2000, Mrs. Brown was instrumental in planning the first-ever national sailing championship for charity.   Now in its sixth year, the Hospice Regattas National Championship is hosted by the Alliance, inviting winners from the local events to compete at the national level, and further promoting hospice care.

All local regattas raise awareness of hospice care and funds for hospices in their areas. The Alliance promotes hospice care nationally by publicizing the regattas, connecting the events, supporting their efforts and hosting the annual national championship.   Each year, the impact of Virginia Brown’s 1982 vision continues to grow.