Local News

Nearing the goal

Warren General makes final push toward $7M capital campaign

With just a few months remaining in its “Building on Success” Capital Campaign, Warren General Hospital is making a final appeal to the community after reaching a major milestone in its effort to raise $7 million for facility upgrades and expanded healthcare services.

Hospital officials announced Friday that the campaign has raised $6.8 million, leaving approximately $200,000 to reach its goal before the campaign concludes in September.

According to retired CEO and campaign leader Rick Allen, the response from individuals, businesses, foundations and community partners has exceeded expectations, reflecting Warren County's commitment to preserving high-quality, independent healthcare close to home.

"The community of Warren has been very supportive and generous," Allen said. "We need this final surge of pledges to meet, or even exceed, our goal of $7 million."

A major factor in the campaign's momentum has been the Community Foundation of Warren County, which committed a total of $1 million to the effort, including support made possible through the Mariam and John Wendell Memorial Fund.

The partnership demonstrates a shared investment in ensuring long-term access to quality healthcare throughout the region.

The campaign will fund a series of major investments throughout the hospital, including new MRI, CT, fluoroscopy and ultrasound equipment, infrastructure improvements, renovations to the cancer center pharmacy "clean room", elevator replacements and upgrades to Warren Medical Group offices.

These improvements will ensure patients continue to have access to advanced medical care close to home while strengthening the hospital’s long-term future.

The campaign has also benefited from several significant “legacy” gifts that include naming rights for buildings and service areas. Those donor recognitions are scheduled to be unveiled during dedication ceremonies in October and November.

Momentum has continued throughout the public phase of the campaign. Among the most recent major contributions was a $25,000 donation from Ellwood National Crankshaft, elevating the company to the campaign’s premier capstone donor level.

Earlier this year, Warren General Hospital also received designation as a Critical Access Hospital, a milestone expected to strengthen its financial stability by providing cost-based reimbursement through Medicare and Medicaid. Hospital officials note that the designation allows philanthropic contributions to be directed toward capital improvements, technology and patient care enhancements rather than daily operating expenses.

While the immediate focus is on raising the final $200,000 before September 30, hospital leaders are also encouraging supporters to consider long-term investments through endowments, planned giving and legacy gifts. Officials said those gifts, many of which can be managed through the Community Foundation of Warren County, help ensure Warren General Hospital can continue investing in technology, facilities and patient care for future generations.

Community members can support the campaign through one-time donations, multi-year pledges and remaining naming opportunities before the campaign concludes. Those interested in making a contribution or learning more about legacy and endowment giving can visit wgh.org/capital-campaign.

Hospital leaders say every contribution, regardless of size, brings the campaign closer to its goal and helps secure the future of local healthcare.