Partnering with the fundraising firm Ketchum, Boca Raton Community Hospital received a $75 million gift from the Schmidt Family Foundation, the largest known gift made to a community hospital.

DALLAS (Vocus/PRWEB ) February 6, 2007 -- Boca Raton Community Hospital received a $75 million gift from the Schmidt Family Foundation, the largest known gift made to a community hospital. Partnering with the fundraising firm Ketchum, Boca Raton Community Hospital launched the campaign to construct a new Academic Medical Center on the Florida Atlantic University campus. The Schmidt donation, along with other pledges, puts the hospital halfway toward its goal of raising $250 million.

The new hospital, to be named the Charles E. Schmidt Medical Center, estimated to cost $650 million, would be the first new academic medical center built in the U.S. in 30 years.

While it is not unusual for Ketchum clients to receive such large gifts, the Schmidt Family Foundation gift is extraordinary. Bob Carter, Ketchum's President said, "We believe that volunteer fundraisers are at the very heart of philanthropy, in that they not only give of their own resources, but give others who share their values a like opportunity to support great causes. The Schmidt gift to Boca Raton Community Hospital is a model for all of us."

The Schmidt family fortune had its beginnings in a tractor supply company and later diversified into several other small business ventures. "No one is more excited about this opportunity than my family and I", said Richard Schmidt, chairman of the Schmidt Family Foundation.

Ketchum specializes in service to the not-for-profit community. Ketchum has partnered with clients in the philanthropic community including education, healthcare, the arts, community services, social services and youth services organizations.

CONTACT:
Kelly Kannwischer
Viscern
214-316-2894 - voice
214-866-7751 - fax
www.viscern.ketchum.com

###

Home