Tabitha—Nebraska’s leading Senior Care provider—was joined by sponsors, local businesses and community influencers for the nonprofit’s largest fundraising initiative of the year, the “Signature Event.”
Embodying the theme of “Voices of Gratitude,” Tabitha leaders shared the impact that generous gifts and community advocacy have on those Tabitha is honored to serve and the TEAMembers who deliver outstanding service.
Donors’ support bolsters the availability of Tabitha’s senior services and uplifts the organization’s Workforce Development program, providing employees with opportunities to enter or progress within the healthcare field.
Putting Names & Faces to Stories of Impact
Attendees heard how their donations make a difference with the story of Marla Gould, a grateful daughter and niece. Both her aunt and father received Tabitha’s renowned care in the comfort of Tabitha’s Elizabeth House and Tabitha at Williamsburg’s Harbor House, two home-like, long-term care residences in Lincoln.
Another spotlighted story was that of Dayna Swenseth’s career path at Tabitha. Swenseth began her journey at Tabitha as Nurse Manager in 2017, and today, she serves as the organization’s Chief Operating Officer (COO).
Brian Shanks, Tabitha President & CEO, added his own voice in gratitude to Eventide, Tabitha’s like-minded affiliation partner based out of Moorhead, Minnesota.
Brian Shanks delivers words of thanks to Immanuel and their team for their collaboration to bring Tabitha Hospice to the Omaha area. Stacie Sumovich, Immanuel Senior Living Consultant, accepts an award on Immanuel’s behalf.”
Shanks also recognized Immanuel—fellow senior care leader in Nebraska—for the success of Tabitha Hospice | A Collaboration with Immanuel. The joint Collaboration brought Tabitha’s renowned end-of-life care to the Omaha-metro area.
The evening was complemented by acoustic, heartfelt tunes from Coldplay, U2 and Foo Fighters, performed by Bryan Olesen, Lincoln celebrity and 2023 finalist on NBC’s primetime show, “The Voice.”
“The opportunity to hear the voices of gratitude from those who have been touched by Tabitha—and benefited by donors—is invaluable,” said Jeff McGinn, Vice President, Tabitha Foundation. “We’re beyond grateful to be involved in such a senior-focused community, and honored for the chance to Cultivate close partnerships with fellow purpose-driven businesses and leaders that are also making a difference in Nebraska.”
How Supporting Seniors Goes a Long Way
Funds raised from the Signature Event are dedicated toward Tabitha’s “Greatest Needs” and also supplement the cost of meals for recipients of Tabitha Meals on Wheels, Lincoln’s lifeline meal delivery service for seniors that has provided nutrition, safety checks and friendly interactions since 1967.
“The Signature Event is a yearly occasion for supporters of Tabitha to witness the monumental power of their generosity,” said Shanks. “Every dollar matters when it comes to ensuring Seniors receive the care they need and very much deserve—especially as record numbers of older adults reach retirement age until 2030. Tabitha’s own ‘Voice of Gratitude’ rings clear to our valuable donors who further Tabitha’s ability to continue serving with grace and empowering people to live joyfully, age gratefully.”
The 2024 Signature Event was packed with purpose—figuratively and literally—as donors heard stories of their impact.
Tabitha’s Signature Event is made possible by major sponsors: Lockton Companies, Union Bank and Trust, Consonus Pharmacy, Telesis Companies, Bishop Business, Brester Construction, D.A. Davidson, Eakes Office Solutions, Immanuel, Pinnacle Bank, Runza, Talent Plus, TheKey, and U-Stop, as well as multiple other corporate and individual donors.
To learn more about Tabitha’s comprehensive services and how you can support seniors today, visit Tabitha.org/Give.