Contact Mercy Health Foundation Washington
Mercy Health Foundation Washington
901 E Fifth St,
Washington, MO 63090
Because of your generosity, our Foundation continues to make a lasting difference for Mercy’s patients, programs and services. In FY25, you helped us raise more than $400,000 — and together, we allocated over $1.2 million to improve the health of our community. This impact was made possible not only through this year’s gifts, but also through the strength of prior-year reserves and investment income. Thanks to you, we were ready to meet urgent needs with care and compassion.
Every year, lives are changed because donors like you stepped forward to give. This snapshot illustrates some of Mercy’s most critical fundraising initiatives that will benefit not only our patients and their families, but also our caregivers and our community.
Over $126K provided program support and vital equipment for behavioral health services
Over $35K enhanced children’s services with car seats, sleep swaddles and privacy curtains
1,318 rides were provided to patients of the Cancer Center
2 new simulation mannequins supported continued nursing education
Eleven years ago, Jim Frisch began cancer treatments at Mercy Hospital Washington with one goal in mind: to survive. What he didn’t realize at the time was that his journey would one day come full circle—transforming his gratitude into a meaningful way of giving back.
During long hours in the infusion chair, Jim had time to observe the world around him. He saw patients who were surrounded by loved ones, and others who faced treatment alone. He felt fortunate to have his mother by his side, but he couldn’t stop thinking about those who didn’t have the same support.
He also watched the caregivers—especially the nurses—with growing admiration. “It’s more than just tubes and wires,” Jim shared. “They bring snacks, offer activities, and sometimes they just sit and listen. No matter what they might be facing in their own lives, they walk into the Cancer Center like heroes, fully focused on their patients.”
Now retired and in good health, Frisch approached Mercy Volunteer Services in late 2024 with a simple request: to give back to those who had given him so much. He hoped to ease the workload for the Cancer Center caregivers who had once lifted him up.
Each week, Jim dedicates several hours to wiping down equipment, restocking snacks, emptying trash and serving refreshments to patients. Most importantly, he offers something only someone who’s been in their shoes can: understanding.
“I may not know exactly what a patient is feeling, but I’ve been in that chair,” Jim says. “We share an unspoken connection.”
Jim’s service gives caregivers precious extra minutes to spend with patients, knowing that someone is there to take care of the little things. His dedication has not gone unnoticed. He was honored in April 2025 at the Volunteer Appreciation Brunch for reaching 100 hours of service.
Mercy Health Foundation Washington
901 E Fifth St,
Washington, MO 63090