St. John’s ICARE Foundation golf outing raises $500,000 for new maternity unit

The St. John’s ICARE Foundation, based in Far Rockaway, is dedicated to supporting St. John’s Episcopal Hospital through fundraising efforts that improve healthcare services for the local community.

Recently, the foundation held its 27th Annual Invitational Golf Tournament at North Hills Country Club, raising $500,000 for the hospital’s Labor, Delivery, Recovery, and Postpartum (LDRP) unit.

The funds will help construct a state-of-the-art LDRP facility, designed to enhance maternal healthcare for families in the Rockaways, Five Towns, and surrounding communities.

Tariq Khan, Emmanuel Loncke and Michael Gliner, who placed first at the tournament.Photos courtesy of St. John’s ICARE Foundation

“The generosity of our sponsors, donors, and players made this event a great success,” said Nancy Leghart, Executive Director of St. John’s ICARE Foundation. “We netted more than $130,000 and are committing a total of $500,000 to the LDRP unit, ensuring we continue to meet the many healthcare needs of growing families right here in our own community.”

The LDRP unit is expected to play a critical role in the hospital’s obstetrical program and overall women’s healthcare services. With construction underway, the unit will provide local families with access to high-quality maternal care close to home.

“We’re truly grateful to everyone who took part in our annual golf tournament,” said Renee Hastick-Motes, President of St. John’s ICARE Foundation and Senior Vice President, Chief External Affairs Officer of Episcopal Health Services (EHS). “Their support brings us closer to making the LDRP unit a reality for local families who deserve exceptional maternal care close to home.”

St. John’s ICARE Foundation Executive Director Nancy Leghart (third from right), Development Coordinator Gwynn Campbell (second from left) and Manager of Foundation Programs and Events Ceallaigh Watts (fourth from right) are pictured with golf tournament volunteers.Photos courtesy of St. John’s ICARE Foundation

The event drew approximately 130 golfers and over 200 dinner guests and honored former EHS CEO Gerard M. Walsh for his leadership in driving the health system’s growth during his tenure.

“It’s only fitting that Jerry is our honoree today,” said Donald T. Morrish, MD, MMM, EHS Chief Executive Officer. “His legacy continues to shape the future of healthcare in the Rockaway community. His vision, dedication, and unwavering commitment to expanding care and services have laid the foundation for our ongoing growth and success.”

The St. John’s ICARE Foundation extended special thanks to the event’s sponsors, including Jzanus, The Shannon Group, VRM Engineering Services, Tom Fitzpatrick Electrical Corp., and several others.