Defining support

Each year, residents and the wider communities are invited to events hosted by Bluestem Communities where there is an extra event description stating: “Proceeds from this event will assist residents and participants who, due to unforeseen circumstances, are unable to cover the full cost of their care.” 

What exactly does all of that mean? 

In short, it means that Bluestem Communities is committed to continuation of care for all residents and participants even when they find themselves faced with challenging financial circumstances. To do this, Bluestem Communities has a Fund Advancement team dedicated to fostering connections and relationships that support benevolent funds at each location, as well as a new endowment, ensuring no resident or participant need ever worry over losing care due to financial hardship. 

“Individuals can have all of their life and finances in order, and sometimes things still happen that are outside of their control,” said Derek Yoder, Bluestem Communities Vice President of Fund Advancement. “The benevolent funds and the endowment serve as a safeguard for the evolving needs of residents and participants, allowing Bluestem Communities to adapt to changing circumstances while maintaining our unwavering commitment to their well-being.” 

Approximately 50% of residents receiving care in Bluestem Communities’ health care settings receive some assistance from the financial safeguard funds annually, emphasizing the unique position Bluestem Communities is in as a non-profit organization to ensure continuation of care. More than 800 households and businesses give annually to Bluestem Communities benevolent funds. Among them, Visionaries – those who give $1,000 or more each year – comprise 280 households and businesses. Many others support less formally by attending and participating in events in which proceeds benefit the benevolent funds. The Bluestem Legacy endowment, meanwhile, is built primarily through estate and individual gifts. 

“Our constituency base enjoys experiences like the events we hold each year in support of the benevolent funds,” said Yoder. “They are also fun, relaxed ways to make connections and showcase the work and mission of Bluestem Communities.” 

The largest event is the Bluestem Gala, held annually in early November. The event features a catered meal, entertainment and a vacation raffle, making it a highlight of the year for supporters. 

“We are so grateful to the many who embrace this ministry and support residents and participants through contribution to the benevolent funds and the Bluestem Legacy endowment,” said Yoder. “The Bluestem Communities family truly stretches beyond the perimeters of our campuses and allows us to offer care unwaveringly. Thank you.” 

Join in the fun of Bluestem Communities events in 2025. Follow Bluestem Communities on Facebook to stay informed about these events and more.