A yearslong fundraising campaign to purchase equipment for Allen County Regional Hospital since before it relocated to North Kentucky Street in 2013 is nearly complete.
Jeff Cokely, executive director of Your Community Foundation, said Thursday evening the $3.2 million goal lacks only about $12,500.
“We’re just about there,” he said.
The announcement came as some of the key organizers of the fund drive recognized Allen County Commissioner Tom Williams and his wife, Margo.
The Williamses recently donated $25,000 to Uniting for Excellence.
In recognition, the hospital’s surgery lounge has been named “Bless the Hands that Heal” the Thomas and Margo Williams Family Room.
“We came to Iola 32 years ago, and were welcomed with open arms,” Margo Williams said. “Able to raise three daughters in a community with great schools and great health care.”
Margo Williams worked for several years as director of surgery.
“We’re honored to give back to a community that has supported us and our three daughters for many years,” she continued.
Mary Kay Heard, one of the Uniting For Excellence organizers, said the news should come as a reminder that while the goal is near, “we’re not there yet. This is still an ongoing campaign.”
Tom Williams is a former Allen County sheriff and retired Kansas Bureau of Investigation agent. He is beginning his second term as an Allen County commissioner.
