Dear Editor:
Twenty-four years ago, a group of community members joined forces to create the first Festival of Trees benefiting Hospice of the Rock River Valley. Now, the Festival of Trees event continues as a tradition encompassing the entire Sauk Valley area.
The Festival of Trees would not be possible without the contributions given by the generosity of the communities we serve. Hospice of the Rock River Valley says thank you to all businesses, organizations, volunteers, decorators, chairpersons, sponsors, donors, and the general public for the generous amount of time, talent, and financial support given to the Festival of Trees. We realize your resources are limited and precious, and we truly appreciate your expressions of support in an effort to help us continue helping others.
The proceeds from the Festival of Trees assist Hospice of the Rock River Valley, a United Way partner agency, in providing care and support to the terminally ill and their families at no cost. The professional staff and team of volunteers have offered expert and compassionate care for over 30 years to those during a most vulnerable time.
Services include nursing care, social work, pastoral and bereavement services, volunteer support, inpatient and respite care, music therapy, as well as medications, medical supplies and equipment. Although Hospice services are reimbursable, the reimbursement does not totally cover the actual costs of providing our full range of Hospice services. This is why Hospice of the Rock River Valley relies heavily on community support to maintain our commitment of not passing on costs to our patients or their families.
On behalf of the staff, Board of Directors and volunteers, please accept our sincere and heartfelt thank you. Please know that through your generosity, you have helped to provide hope and compassionate care to your fellow community members.
We wish you and yours happiness throughout this holiday season.
Sincerely,
Carolyn Spencer, Executive Director
Karen Voss, Marketing Director