How is the Miller-Dwan Foundation different from other medical foundations commonly associated with regional health care facilities?

Many other medical foundations are structured as "support organizations," meaning their primary purpose is to provide financial support to their parent institution. The Miller-Dwan Foundation was structured as such until November of 2000, when the Board voted to change its legal status to public charity. The Foundation retained as a part of its mission the needs of the Miller-Dwan Medical Center and Polinsky Rehabilitation Center, but broadened its focus to be more responsive to a larger spectrum of health care needs and to carrying out more expansive philanthropic dreams of donors.

What is a public charity?

A public charity is an organization that responds to the general public, rather than to the private interests of a limited number of donors or other persons. Public charities are excluded from private foundation restrictions and are therefore able to offer donors the most favorable tax status allowable by law. They receive broad public support from many donors and have an independent governing board comprised of community members.

Can I establish a fund or designate a specific health care need for which I would like to see my contributions used?

Yes. This is your gift, and we’re here to make sure it benefits the health care need or organization you care about. Our grants program is designed to make sure your donations are used not only for meaningful community health projects, but that they fulfill your intended purpose, and reach the intended beneficiaries. You can establish a designated fund with a minimum gift of $5,000, or you can direct a contribution at any time, in any amount, to already established designated funds. We would be happy to talk with you about your possible gift and discuss how you would like it used.

What kind of designated funds does the Foundation currently administer?

Currently, the Foundation manages over 30 designated funds from which we distribute grants for donor-designated purposes. These funds meet health care needs in many ways, including: cancer treatment, burn care, physical rehabilitation and the needs of people with disabilities, mental health, chemical dependency, health and wellness programs, and surgical services. Some of our donors have further designated their gifts to an institution of their choice, including the Miller-Dwan Medical Center, Polinsky Medical Rehabilitation Center and other community nonprofits which meet health care needs. Other donors have directed donations to certain groups of people with health care needs, such as children who are victims of physical, emotional or sexual abuse; or children needing assistance in coping with lifelong conditions, like disfiguring burns. In short, we are a creative, flexible, responsible resource designed to help you fulfill your desire to meet the health care needs of this community. To find out more, click to benefits of giving.