Arens joins Saint Elizabeth’s Community Development Foundation Board

2/4/2009

Mention fundraising to Jerry Arens, and a rush of enthusiasm and a sparkle in his eyes emerge. When you have an opportunity to match a person’s passion with an organization’s mission, you have the ingredients for a win-win exchange. And over the past few decades, Jerry has had the privilege of facilitating many of these conservations.
According to Jerry, the culture of philanthropy is alive and thriving in Wabasha. “The people of the Wabasha area are so incredibly generous,” exclaims Jerry. “They believe in the importance of giving back and strengthening the foundations of our communities. Whether giving to their church, civic organizations, The National Eagle’s Center (NEC), or Saint Elizabeth’s, they know their contribution matters and remains local to benefit the community at large. Being a part of something bigger than ourselves is one of the greatest intangible rewards of giving.”
Jerry knows all too well of the challenges and rewards of leading successful fundraising initiatives. He has been active in the development activities of St. Felix Church and School, and most recently, the capital campaign for the NEC. “These have been wonderful experiences for me,” he adds. “I have been surprised and amazed at the outpouring of support.”
When invited to join Saint Elizabeth’s Community Development Foundation Board, he didn’t hesitate. “I have had connections with Saint Elizabeth’s since birth,” he smiles, and as he does, shares the laminated 1946 hospital bill of the 10-day hospital stay of this mother when he and twin brother, Jim, were born. The total cost - $20.00! Since then, many of his family members have been recipients of services provided by the medical center, apartments, and long-term care.
“Saint Elizabeth’s is a valuable community resource we must protect. Hospital care, nursing home, assisted living, and many other services are vital to the health and economic stability of our region. The sisters overcame great hardships and sacrificed so much to establish this facility. Our communities understand this and have shown their support for many years. I look forward to working with fellow board members, administration, sisters, physicians, and staff, to continue telling the marvelous stories of great care taking place at Saint Elizabeth’s.”
Jerry is also an active businessman in Wabasha. A State Farm Insurance agent for nearly 30 years, he is past president and member of the Wabasha-Kellogg Chamber of Commerce, Kellogg Lions, Wabasha Rotary, and W-K Booster Club. He is also an active member of St. Felix Church and the Knights of Columbus. Jerry is a vocal advocate and promoter of the assets of Wabasha. “I moved to Iowa for a time but couldn’t wait to return to one of the most beautiful areas in the country. I am blessed to be given the opportunity to share my love for this community and support its many invaluable resources.” 
Jerry is joined by a team of board members that meets regularly to oversee foundation activities. Currently, the group is continuing to raise support for Saint Elizabeth’s capital needs. The surgery expansion and renovation, now underway, will add two new state-of-the-art surgery suites that will improve access to general and specialty surgery services. Board members include:
Paul Busch, president; John Doffing, vice president; Shelby Schlosstein, secretary; Marie Theismann, Elaine Malone, Sister Catherine Mary Holker, Beverly Fjelsted, Mark Jarstad, Casey A. T. O’Neil, Gary Stumpf, Dean Plank, Ed Ostrom, Bob Wooden, Jake Abbott, Dr. Marvin Timm, and Tom Crowley.