January 18th, 2021 by WCBC Radio

The WMHS Auxiliary, serving UPMC Western Maryland, has just announced the cancellation of this year’s Snow Ball event. In its 65 years, this marks a first for the region’s premiere black-tie affair. “We faced a difficult decision in 2021,” claimed Julie Davis, Auxiliary president and co-chair of the event. “Though needs are ongoing, we could not justify a large gathering while COVID continues to plague us. The committee felt strongly that this was not a year to host a celebration or risk the spread of infection.”

The Snow Ball raises more than $80,000 annually toward projects that support UPMC Western Maryland. In 2019, Auxiliary leadership made a $1 million pledge over six years toward the new

Center for Hope and Healing, a substance abuse and behavioral health facility dedicated to patients struggling with opioid and other addictions. To date, Snow Ball contributions have helped the Auxiliary meet half of that goal.

Mirjhana Buck cultivates corporate sponsorships for Snow Ball. As cancellation notices are mailed in the coming weeks, she said, donors will have an opportunity to support the Center this year through a special fundraising initiative.

 

“Our donors make the difference in the lives of those struggling with addiction,” said Buck. “In lieu of Snow Ball 2021, we are coordinating a virtual strategic effort to connect our sponsors with the life-changing work at the Center for Hope and Healing, so that patients there will know they are not forgotten.”

 

For more information or to add your name to the mailing list, contact the Auxiliary by phone at 240.964.8051 or by email at cosgrovesr@upmc.edu.