[North Vernon, Indiana] February 12, 2025 – The 27th Annual Our Hospice Jennings Gala, held on February 8, 2025 in the Barn at Willow Crossing, raised over $65,000 to support compassionate hospice care services for Jennings County residents. The evening's success marks a significant milestone for Our Hospice, Making Every Moment Count to provide the highest quality compassionate, end-of-life care to community members regardless of their ability to pay.

"The overwhelming generosity displayed at this year's gala reflects our community's deep commitment to ensuring that every family in Jennings County has access to dignified hospice care when they need it most," said Steph Cain, President of Our Hospice. "These funds will directly impact our ability to provide compassionate care, support services, and grief counseling to patients and their loved ones. For over three decades, Our Hospice of South Central Indiana has been serving this beloved community.”

The elegant evening featured seven Jennings County High School Gala Queen students Gabriella Alvarado, Emma Benson, Macy Bullard, Marlee Elston, Graci Ross, Kate Treadway, and Addyson Wisner raised $31,463 collectively. This year's theme, "Rodeo and Rhinestones," was attended by more than 200 community members, healthcare professionals, and business leaders. Addyson Wisner was crowned Gala Queen, raising $18,363. She accepted her crown from the 2024 Gala Queen, Addilyn Burton. Macy Bullard was named first runner-up.

The funds raised will support:
- Enhanced patient care services
- Additional training for hospice care professionals
- Expansion of grief support programs
- Medical equipment and supplies
- Financial assistance for families in need

"Thank you to everyone who contributed to making this one of our most successful gala events to date,” said Terry Frederiksen, Manager of Resource Development. The silent and live auctions were also a success. “The online mobile auction went very well,” added Frederiksen, “the bidding process was exciting as notifications were sent immediately if the bid was raised allowing the auction to get very competitive. The live auction, led by auctioneer Tom Lawson of Tom Lawson Real Estate and Auction Services, added excitement to the evening as attendees attempted to outbid each other for some great prizes.”

Our Hospice extends special thanks to Event Chair Tabitha Salzman and the dedicated gala community members, Jessica Bailey, Roxanne Elsner, Alisa Gasper, Greg Hicks, Lisa Moore, Jena Morgan, Gene Rudicel, Brian Sawyer and Sandy Vance, who worked to create an unforgettable evening. Our Hospice is grateful for the exceptional support of our Corporate Partner, Dunlap General & Mechanical Contractors, and Title Sponsors Arvin Sango, Inc., City of North Vernon, First Class Catering and Willow Lake Event Center, benefactors and community members whose generous contributions were instrumental in the event's success.

For more information about Our Hospice services or to learn about volunteer opportunities, please Our Hospice of South Central Indiana at 812-314-8000 | ourhospice.org.

Prior Gala Results