The WMHS Foundation is recognized by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) as a tax-exempt charitable organization by the Internal Revenue Code Section 501(c)(3). The WMHS Foundation is considered a "public charity” by virtue of its direct support of the Western Maryland Regional Medical Center, which is also tax-exempt. The purpose of the WMHS Foundation is to support the work, mission, and values of the Western Maryland Health System. Most often that purpose is accomplished through fund development which supports capital purchases, technology, equipment, scholarships, care for indigent patients and patient comfort. All funds donated to the Western Maryland Health System are processed through the Foundation, where donations are recorded, donors recognized, and funds earmarked for specific purposes carefully monitored. Each year, the Foundation provides approximately $250,000 to the Western Maryland Health System for capital purchases which are approved during the budget process, and $100,000 in scholarships to students in health care fields. In addition, smaller donations are made to areas where donors have directed specific funding. Sources of funds coming into the Foundation for disbursement include individual, corporate, group donations, special event fundraisers like the annual Golf Classic, and grants of all sizes. The Foundation is governed by a board of directors and has five full-time staff. Karen Johnson has been the Executive Director since 2001.
