Rosecrance kicked off its 100th anniversary celebration in style Monday with music and stories of hope at the annual Rosecrance Foundation Benefit.
Vintage-style musicians Redux Jazz Orchestra performed to a sold-out crowd of more than 800 guests at the event, held April 25 at Giovanni’s Restaurant & Convention Center. The benefit helps families who need financial assistance for behavioral health treatment services.
The benefit also included presentation of The Castle Award, Rosecrance’s pinnacle honor, to Rockford landscape architect John Cook, a longtime supporter of the organization. Rosecrance President/CEO Philip W. Eaton recognized Cook for “using his green thumb for good” to help clients and their families heal physically and spiritually.
Cook is the owner of John R. Cook Associates, an award-winning landscape design firm. He offered valuable assistance in the landscaping of the Rosecrance Harrison Campus in 1995 and during the early 2000s as Rosecrance built the Griffin Williamson Campus on University Drive. Cook also has served as a Rosecrance board member for more than 20 years.
“John’s guidance over two decades has helped Rosecrance create beautiful natural spaces where clients can heal with dignity,” Eaton said. “His work has stood the test of time, and his service to Rosecrance reflects the values of his life, his faith and his love of family and community.”
The annual benefit is Rosecrance’s key fundraiser. Attendees enjoyed a retrospective video of the organization’s 100-year history set to the tune of “This Little Light of Mine” and success stories of Rosecrance alumni highlighted in a video titled, “A Happy Birthday.” Illinois Representatives Brian Stewart and John Cabello and Rockford Mayor Larry Morrissey read proclamations honoring Rosecrance’s centennial.
Proceeds from the event go to The Kinley Charity Care Fund, which has raised more than $7 million to help families since the fund was established in 1984. Last year, the Kinley Fund provided more than $568,000 in treatment services.
Anne Boccignone, Rosecrance’s vice president of communications and development, expressed gratitude for the generosity of benefactors in the community who support the benefit.
“We are so grateful to our donors who are the link to hope for hundreds of families each year who walk through our doors needing help,” Boccignone said.