RCH holds first-ever gala in honor of 75 year anniversary
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By Ken Garner
MOUNT AYR, Iowa — The Ringgold County Hospital celebrated its 75th birthday in style with its first ever gala last Saturday night at Homestead Hall located at the Ringgold County Fairgrounds in Mount Ayr.
“The inaugural gala was a wonderful success,” RCH Chief Executive Officer Nicky Gilbertson said of the sold-out event. “… the atmosphere throughout the night reflected just how much pride and connection this community has with Ringgold County Hospital. It was a wonderful way to celebrate 75 years of service.”
The Kentucky Derby themed gala was a culmination of celebrating 75 years of the hospital caring for community, supporting its patients and strengthening local healthcare.
“Hosting a gala this year felt especially meaningful,” Gilbertson said. “The 75th anniversary is a milestone not just for the hospital, but for the generations of families, staff and community members who have shaped it. It was the right moment to honor that history while also looking ahead to the future of rural healthcare in Ringgold County.
The event also served as a fundraiser for the hospital foundation. Preliminary numbers showed the gala raised approximately $7,000.
We’re still finalizing the numbers, but we’re very pleased with the early results,” Gilbertson said.
No final decision has yet to be made on how the funds will be used. However, according to Gilbertson, the RCH Foundation has submitted a grant proposal to support a new community wellness initiative. The project requires matching funds and would create a walking path and meditation garden connecting the hospital to the Ringgold County Trailway. The goal is to promote physical activity, mental well-being, and stress reduction — the first phase of a long-term vision to expand prevention and wellness opportunities for the community.
The gala featured a silent auction, Kentucky Derby themed games, as well as the keynote address provided by Dr. Bruce Ricker.
“Overall, the gala was a meaningful reminder of how this community cares about its hospital,” Gilbertson said. “The support, enthusiasm and generosity we saw that night were truly wonderful.”
