The Power of Philanthropy | Grateful Patient Giving | MedStar Health

Every story we share begins with someone like you.

We are glad you’re here. Behind every story of care and innovation is someone like you who made it possible.

The Power of Philanthropy: 2025 in Review

play button

Featured story: Philanthropy in Action

Fueled by philanthropy, MedStar Health and the Baltimore Ravens welcomed nearly 200 nursing candidates to MedStar Health’s first-ever Nursing Professionals Day.

MedStar Health and the Baltimore Ravens welcomed nearly 200 nursing candidates to MedStar Health’s first-ever Nursing Professionals Day.

This innovative, co-branded recruitment and engagement event connected experienced nurses and students with nurse leaders and care teams, fostering meaningful conversations about career growth, purpose, and patient impact. Attendees enjoyed interactive tours of mobile care and simulation units, behind-the-scenes stadium experiences, and an inspiring presentation from a former Ravens player who shared his journey as a MedStar Health patient—highlighting the vital role nurses play in healing and care delivery.

Donor spotlight

A Lasting Legacy: Lynda Carter Establishes Surgical Simulation Facility and First Endowed Chair at MedStar Health

Dr Stephen Evans, Dr. Patrick Jackson, actress Linda Carter and Dr. Lisa Boyle pose for a photo at MedStar Health.

Through a transformational $10 million gift, the Robert & Lynda Carter Altman Family Foundation is helping shape the future of surgical care and education across the Washington, D.C., region. This investment creates The Robert A. Altman Center for Surgical Education at MedStar Georgetown University Hospital and supports MedStar Health’s first endowed chair in surgery, advancing excellence in surgical training, innovation, and patient care. Led by Patrick Jackson, MD, as the inaugural Robert A. Altman Endowed Chair of Surgery at MedStar Georgetown, the center will focus on technical training, leadership and communication skills, educational research, and collaboration across disciplines. The initiative is expected to strengthen the region’s surgical workforce and improve access to advanced care for patients for years to come.

Programs fueled by philanthropy

2 women cook in the kitchen at Hospice House of St. Mary's.MedStar Health: Hospice of St. Mary’s

Hospice was founded on neighbors helping neighbors. Donor generosity has enhanced comfort for hundreds of patients and families through improvements to Hospice House, from furnishings and linens to facility upgrades. Most recently, donor support provided a renovated kitchen, new outdoor furniture, creating a peaceful space where patients, visitors, and staff can find comfort and respite during difficult times.

“We could not run Hospice House without community support. It is invaluable. I am so proud to work here, and donor support allows us to provide extras for our patients and family. It's like a beautiful bow on a present—and it means so much to our patients that call the Hospice House home." - Jeanette Wolter, BSN, RN, DN, CHPN

 
 

The Academy at MedStar Health

Graduates from the Academy at MedStar Health program for sterile processing and radiation technoligists.Since 2024, more than 100 associates, many of whom are first-generation higher learners—have now furthered their education in needed healthcare fields. We’re not just filling critical staffing gaps. Through full tuition assistance, full salary support, and guaranteed career placement, we’re breaking generational poverty cycles and building economic opportunities in the communities we serve.



Cedric Fresnoza

“Every day was memorable because we were doing what we love. Thank you for making this available."

— Cedric Fresnoza

Building impact together

Philanthropic support for capital projects helps MedStar Health enhance the quality, access, and experience of care. Investments in modern facilities, advanced technology, and specialized treatment spaces improve patient outcomes, support clinical excellence, and expand access to care for the communities we serve.


Photo of the ribbon cutting ceremony for the Harold and Nancy Zirkin Breast Imaging Center at MedStar Health.

Nancy and Harold Zirkin Breast Imaging Center

Made possible entirely through philanthropy, this $3 million transformation reflects the extraordinary generosity of donors who recognized the need to enhance and expand this high-volume center, which serves nearly 100 patients each day. We are deeply grateful to the donors and partners whose vision and generosity made this possible, with special thanks to Harold and Nancy Zirkin, Linda Rabbitt, Michelle Lee and Daniel Chou, and Carolyn Gardner, whose support helped bring this vision to life.

Philanthropy in the news

Contact us

To learn more about philanthropy at MedStar Health and speak to a team member, email us at philanthropy@medstar.net.