Far Rockaway, New York — The St. John’s ICARE Foundation hosted its second annual Blue Phoenix Gala on June 5 at the Garden City Hotel, successfully raising over $400,000 for Episcopal Health Services’ (EHS) new Labor and Delivery Suite. The event highlighted the community’s dedication to improving maternal care in the Rockaway and Five Towns areas.
Nancy Leghart, Executive Director of the ICARE Foundation, expressed gratitude for the support received: “The outpouring of support for the Blue Phoenix Gala speaks volumes about our community’s commitment to the mission and vision of EHS.”
Sheldon H. Genack, MD, FACS, Chairman of the Department of Surgery at EHS, was honored with the inaugural CEO’s Distinguished Service Award. Felicia Johnson received the Dr. Edward Williams Jr. Community Service Award for her long-standing service to Rockaway.
Donald T. Morrish, MD, MMM, Chief Executive Officer of EHS remarked on the importance of their new facilities: “The establishment of our Labor, Delivery, Recovery, and Postpartum suite is a long-overdue stride for our community.”
The gala featured performances by singer/songwriter Norman Alexander and other entertainers including Pablo Lanouguere Jazz Trio and Mentalist David Schwartz. The evening also showcased a video detailing ongoing transformations at EHS.
Awards were presented to individuals and organizations contributing significantly to EHS’s mission. Notable received recognition as Innovator in Healthcare while Lesly Michel accepted the Philanthropic Legacy Award on behalf of EHS Medical Staff.
Episcopal Health Services Inc., located in Queens’ Rockaway Peninsula, provides essential healthcare services to diverse populations regardless of financial capability.
