Making a Difference

Employees Giving Back

Giving back, and to each other, in hard economic times isn’t always easy or natural.  That’s why it is always amazing to witness the extraordinary generosity of people as they reach out in small and significant ways to assist someone else that is in need.  The Promise Fund was established two years ago as a part of the Employee Giving campaign. To date Rush-Copley employees have generously shared more than $30,000 of their philanthropic gifts to assist colleagues experiencing an unexpected hardship in their lives.  The Promise Fund committee is made up of an Ad Hoc group of employees who take the time to review the applications and requests.  In the two years of program operation, Rush-Copley Foundation has assisted 15 employees with grant awards in critical moments of their lives.

Thirty Years' Legacy 

The Foundation extends sincere thanks to Chet and Linda McKee of Aurora.  The McKees made a generous, unrestricted donation of $100,000 to help meet the hospital’s greatest needs. Over a thirty-year period, the McKees, life-long residents of Aurora, significantly supported the hospital with both their financial gifts and donations and of their time as volunteer leaders. “The McKee’s generosity and dedication over the years is an inspiration to us at the Foundation,” said Barbara Graham, executive director, Rush-Copley Foundation.  “They are truly wonderful philanthropic role models for the community.”

For nearly 30 years, Chet served Rush-Copley, as a Board Member, Chairman, President, CEO, and the Vice President of Special Projects for the Rush-Copley Foundation.  He commented on the gift by stating, “In the 120-year history of the hospital, I can't think of another time when Rush-Copley has been more poised to make a jump forward in meeting the needs of the community. We are happy that we can continue to be a part of it.”  Chet passed away in May after a brief illness.  

A true visionary and community advocate, Chet navigated and tirelessly promoted the need for a replacement hospital for the organization, envisioning a fully integrated campus on Ogden Avenue in Aurora that would include healthcare, education and fitness.

Chet is responsible for having the foresight of what Rush-Copley is today, many years ago. Despite obstacles, Chet’s unbridled enthusiasm and deep belief in providing the highest quality medical care for the community was unstoppable. We are all profoundly grateful for his efforts. He loved Aurora and believed that it is a great city and he had a gift of bringing people together and making things happen. On a personal note, he never failed to light up any room he entered; he was an energetic, fun-loving person who was known for a good joke, a big laugh and someone that everyone admired for his business acumen, his passion for community service and his love for life. He will be greatly missed. 

Rush-Copley Foundation Receives $1.2 Million Bequest

Marguerite Hoag Ball recognized the Foundation with an unrestricted gift of $1.2 million earlier this year. Mrs. Ball, 88, was a resident of Geneva for more than 50 years when she passed away.

Ron Hem, Chairman of the Rush-Copley Medical Center Board of Directors, knew Mrs. Ball for many years and praised her gift to the Foundation.

“Marguerite was a delight to know and a most generous philanthropist,” said Hem. “Her legacy gift to the Foundation and medical center is very much appreciated.”

Mrs. Bell was a life-long animal and wildlife lover and a well-known philanthropist. She supported and volunteered at Anderson Animal Shelter in South Elgin for many years and was active in pet therapy work and dog obedience training. In addition, she volunteered for Girl Scouts and Boy Scouts of America and the Congregational Church in Geneva.