A whimsical evening unfolded at the Kossuth Regional Health Center Foundation’s 23rd Annual Legacy Ball on November 1, where more than 215 guests gathered to celebrate under the enchanting “Emerald Club” theme. Inspired by the charm of Emerald City and the elegance of a vintage speakeasy, the event’s atmosphere and menu delighted attendees while raising a record-breaking $104,143 for the Foundation’s endowment fund.
A highlight of the evening was the silent auction, which contributed $10,555 to the total. Popular auction items included dinner parties, weekend getaways, tickets to musical and sporting events, home décor, and a variety of enticing food and beverage packages.
This year, the Foundation honored the KRHC Auxiliary as the 2025 Legacy Legends, recognizing their unwavering support of local healthcare since the opening of St. Ann Hospital in 1949.
“It truly takes a village to support healthcare in our community, and the KRHC Auxiliary has been part of that village since day one,” said Nancy Grandgenett-Besch, KRHC Foundation Director. “That village includes the Auxiliary, the Foundation Board, the Board of Trustees, hospital staff, and our generous donors—all working together to make a lasting impact.”
KRHC Chief Executive Officer Dar Elbert introduced the Legacy Legends during the program, celebrating the Auxiliary’s long-standing influence on the hospital and community. Elbert also acknowledged the vital roles played by the Board of Trustees, providers, hospital staff, and Foundation supporters in making KRHC a trusted place for care.
KRHC Auxiliary President Julie Buyck shared highlights of the organization’s impact, noting that the Auxiliary recently celebrated its 75th anniversary and currently includes 255 active members.
“The Auxiliary has donated over $729,609 for equipment and hospital programs since 1973, which is as far back as our records go,” said Buyck. She also shared her pride in several key initiatives, including:
- $500 scholarships awarded annually to six area high school seniors who demonstrate excellence in volunteerism.
- The Pediatric Orientation Day Program, which welcomes all area first graders to tour the hospital each fall and learn about medical departments and equipment in a friendly, engaging way.
- The ongoing contributions of Auxiliary volunteers, including the Gift Shop manager and staff, front desk greeters, and the art display coordination
Buyck thanked the Foundation for the acknowledgment, highlighting the dedication of every Auxiliary member, past and present, who has given their time and talents to support KRHC.
“I want to thank the Foundation for selecting the Auxiliary as this year’s Legacy Legends,” Buyck added. “It’s an honor to be recognized alongside so many others who care deeply about the future of healthcare in our community.”
The Legacy Ball has become a cherished fall tradition for donors and Foundation supporters, offering an elegant evening at Columbia Hall while raising funds for the endowment.
“Our Foundation’s endowment fund offers a sustainable way to enhance healthcare in Kossuth County,” said Nancy Grandgenett-Besch, KRHC Foundation Director. “We use only the interest to support critical needs—like construction, equipment, and technology that improve patient care. I’m especially grateful to our Foundation Board for 23 years of leadership, helping make the Legacy Ball our signature fundraiser. Last year, donor support funded a new chemistry analyzer for the lab—proof of the impact our community continues to make. Thank you to everyone who helped us achieve another record-breaking year.”
The Legacy Ball is traditionally held on the first Saturday of November. Anyone is welcome to attend, sponsor, or donate auction items. For more information about giving opportunities through the KRHC Foundation, including the Legacy Ball, contact Nancy Grandgenett-Besch at 515-295-4582.
