Governor Juan F. Luis Hospital and Medical Center (JFL) hosted the St. Croix Chamber of Commerce Business After Hours, a well-attended event featuring hors d’oeuvres, drinks, a silent auction, and a showcase of JFL’s services. Additionally, the event served as the launching platform for the St. Croix Community Hospital Foundation (SCCHF).
In 2021, a collaborative effort was set in motion to establish a foundation in support of JFL. This initiative involved the active participation of hospital leaders, medical staff, and dedicated community volunteers who collectively explored the best way forward. Empowered by its own Board of Directors, the St. Croix Community Hospital Foundation was formally established in 2024, leveraging a partnership with The Community Foundation of the Virgin Islands (CFVI) to minimize initial expenses.
SCCHF’s overarching mission is to “Enhance Healthcare Delivery in St. Croix with Long-term Sustainability for our Community,” supported by five key goals:
- Increasing philanthropic support
- Enhancing community engagement
- Strengthening strategic partnerships
- Expanding donor stewardship & recognition
- Developing sustainable revenue streams
JFL volunteer engages attendee at the silent auction table.
During his opening statement, CEO Douglas Koch emphasized the critical need for creating a strong healthcare community within the territory. He expressed his enthusiasm for the launch of the St. Croix Community Hospital Foundation, underscoring its role in ensuring the long-term sustainability of JFL’s operations. Koch stated, “We are excited to be here to launch the St. Croix Community Hospital Foundation that will generate sustainability around JFL’s operations today and in the future.”
The foundation has enthusiastically commenced fundraising and community outreach programs to garner support and drive momentum. With the help of SCCHF, JFL has already secured over $500,000 in grant funding for vital projects at JFL. The non-profit SCCHF is dedicated to raising community awareness, funds for programs and services, and providing stewardship to advance local healthcare and elevate patient care for the residents of our community.
Barb Biehner, SCCHF’s Board Vice Chair, expressed her excitement as the new logo for the foundation was unveiled, stating, “This is an exciting and important time for JFL and the community as we grow and find new ways to support the hospital through the foundation. We hope others will join us in this effort.”
St. Croix Community Hospital Foundation official Logo
The evening concluded with a silent auction where all proceeds would go towards SCCHF. JFL extends its sincere appreciation to the St. Croix Chamber of Commerce for the opportunity to host the Business After Hours Event. Additionally, we would like to recognize our sponsors: Sweet Lime Furnishings, Pampered VI/ The Courtyard, Grapetree Bay Hotel, The Natural Jewel & Jewelry Factory, and Julie Edwards at Wellbeing Paradise. This ongoing partnership is expected to bring about a positive transformation in healthcare for the St. Croix Community.
To learn more about SCCHF or to get involved, visit our website at jflusvi.org.
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