Ohio’s Hospice fundraising event raises record amount
An evening of food, beverages, live and silent auctions, and community support topped off the 19th annual Culinary Capers benefiting Ohio’s Hospice. Thanks to the 225 people in attendance at Rustic Ridge Wedding Barn in New Philadelphia, the event raised over $177,000, shattering the previous record of more than $130,000.
This support helps to ensure all in the communities served by Ohio’s Hospice receive the comprehensive end-of-life care and grief support services they need when it matters most, regardless of their ability to pay.
Bob Scanlon served as master of ceremonies. Kurt Holmes, executive director of Ohio’s Hospice, welcomed guests and thanked them for supporting the staff who provide the end-of-life care and grief support services.
Peter Wagner was recognized for his 19 years of continuous support of the Culinary Capers event by donating the use of his Key West cottages to the auction.
A highlight of the evening was student Cooper Winter and Dan Warther of Warther Woodworking raised $11,000 through their handcrafted projects they created including a bowl and ornaments. Winter and Warther were matched together shortly after Winter’s dad passed away. Those funds raised support the Pathways of Hope youth bereavement camp held each summer.
“The tireless efforts of the volunteer committee and the incredible generosity of the talented chefs, auction items donors and lively bidders all worked together to create an event that will not soon be forgotten,” said Mona Sayre, special events and donor relations coordinator at Ohio’s Hospice. “We are blessed to live and work in this community that believes in supporting care for friends and neighbors.”
The event planning committee of community volunteers who helped make this event possible included Alex Geers, Denise McEnroe- Petitte, Kelly Rager, Lindsey Tidrick, Veronica Studer, Tiffany Dumermuth and Jessica Marsh.
Platinum sponsors for this year’s event included Al and Maryann Fearon, Quanex IG Systems, Miller Studio Inc., Commercial and Savings Bank, ProVia, and Rustic Ridge Wedding Barn.
A special thank you to hospice culinary friends and supporters including Annie Bichsel, Benson’s Market and Catering, Buckeye Career Center Culinary Arts Department, chef Carla Braun and Dennis Borter of Hennis Care Centers, chef Cameron Krahel, Dough Co. Donuts and Coffee, Grinders Above and Beyond, El Hefe Bar and Kitchen, Hog Heaven BBQ, Log Cabin Catering, Miller’s Creamery, Park Street Pizza, Texas Roadhouse, and Yoder’s Hometown Market.
A mobile care unit was onsite for the event. Guests supported this addition to the community by raising $60,000 to outfit the inside of the unit. Care provided through this mobile care unit will allow families to be together and provide hospice-trained staff to transport patients.
“This community truly supports their own,” said Katherine Ritchie Grant, development director for Ohio’s Hospice.
Culinary Capers will return in spring 2025.
Starting in 2024, Community Hospice now serves the community as Ohio’s Hospice, a mission-driven nonprofit hospice and palliative care provider serving throughout Ohio and committed to a shared vision of strengthening and preserving community-based hospices. Ohio’s Hospice now serves more than 60 Ohio counties with hospice, palliative and supportive care services.