Aspirus Ironwood and GRHF Team Up for Winter Formal Fundraiser to Create Healing Garden

October 11, 2024 – Aspirus Ironwood Hospital and Clinics, in collaboration with the Gogebic Range Health Foundation (GRHF), is thrilled to announce the 2024 Winter Formal, a spectacular fundraising event with a mission to create a Healing Garden for patients, visitors, and staff. This year’s Winter Formal, themed “Winter Wonderland,” will not only support the Healing Garden project but will also mark an incredible milestone for GRHF—pushing the Foundation over the $1 million mark in community giving since its inception in 2015.

The event will take place on Saturday, November 2, 2024, at Gunbarrel Lodge, Big Powderhorn Mountain from 5:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m., and promises an unforgettable evening of celebration for a transformative cause.

Proceeds from this year’s Winter Formal will go directly toward building a Healing Garden in the green space between the Aspirus Ironwood cafeteria and the newly remodeled Medical-Surgical rooms. Healing Gardens offer therapeutic benefits by providing patients, visitors, and staff with a natural, serene environment to reduce stress, improve well-being, and promote faster recovery.

“We are honored to work with Gogebic Range Health Foundation for this year’s Winter Formal,” said Maggie Hill, Chair of the Aspirus Winter Formal Committee. “The Healing Garden will provide a peaceful retreat for patients and staff, allowing them to experience the healing power of nature in a hospital setting.”

Healing Garden Benefits:

  • For patients, the garden will enhance well-being, reduce anxiety and depression, and contribute to quicker recovery times.
  • For staff, who often face emotionally and physically demanding work, it will serve as a much-needed space to de-stress and recharge, positively impacting their care for patients.

“Reaching the $1 million mark is an incredible milestone for us,” said Kassi Huotari, GRHF Executive Director. “It highlights the collective impact we’ve made together with our community partners. This event will not only bring us across that threshold but also help create a beautiful Healing Garden that will benefit so many people.”

The Winter Formal will offer a wide variety of activities, including:

  • Mystery boxes filled with surprises
  • A live auction featuring exclusive items
  • A gourmet dinner, followed by an evening of dancing
  • And much more!

Event Details:

  • Date: Saturday, November 2, 2024
  • Time: 5:00 p.m. – 11:00 p.m.
  • Location: Gunbarrel Lodge, Big Powderhorn Mountain, Bessemer, Michigan

Tickets are available now at: runsignup.com/TicketEvent/AIWWinterFormal24.

About Aspirus Ironwood Hospital and Clinics:
Aspirus Ironwood Hospital and Clinics is dedicated to providing high-quality healthcare services to the community, with a focus on patient-centered care, advanced medical technology, and compassionate support. Aspirus is committed to improving the health and well-being of the Gogebic Range community.

About Gogebic Range Health Foundation:
The Gogebic Range Health Foundation aims to improve the health and wellness of the Gogebic Range community by supporting initiatives that foster healthy living and well-being. Since its founding in 2015, GRHF has proudly invested nearly $1 million into the community, and through events like the Winter Formal, continues to make a lasting impact on local healthcare and community projects.

Media Contact:

Kassi Huotari
Executive Director, Gogebic Range Health Foundation
906-364-7527
kassi.huotari@gogebicrangehf.org