'Night on the Hill' raises $7,000 for Hillcrest Nursing Home Foundation

Jim Howard and Don Harpst, center, were honored by the Hillcrest Foundation at the Oct. 27 fundraiser, “Night on the Hill.” Shown from left is Randy Dean, Hillcrest Board of Trustees president, Jim Howard, Don Harpst and Brad Cheek, Hillcrest administrator.

Lorri Sughroue/McCook Gazette

McCOOK, Neb. — More than $7,000 was raised at the Hillcrest Nursing Home Foundation’s “Night on the Hill” on Oct. 27, all of which will be used locally.

The annual fundraising event netted $7,656, organizers said. The proceeds will fund scholarships for Hillcrest employees who want to further their nursing education and necessary needs for Hillcrest residents. The Foundation recently funded roof repairs at Hillcrest.

The night also included recognition of two long-time Hillcrest volunteers, Don Harpst, along with Hillcrest Board of Trustee member and Foundation member, Jim Howard, who is stepping down from his position.

Harpst’s award cited his continued dedication to Hillcrest in many capacities and his countless hours devoted to landscaping at the facility.

Harpst was the Hillcrest administrator and continues to volunteer his time at the facility, including playing the piano for residents and talking to the community about Hillcrest.

Howard has served as a Board of Trustee for 18 years, first appointed by Red Willow County Commissioners in 2001. During his tenure, he oversaw with other board members the $3.4 million renovation of the facility; the renovation of the dining room and many other improvements at Hillcrest.

“Night on the Hill” included raffles, silent auctions, music, desserts and appetizers and was coordinated by Foundation member, Norma Barnett, who called the night a success.

“Thank you to the community for supporting our Night On The Hill,” Barnett said. “It is deeply appreciated by the staff and board members at Hillcrest. It is their support that allows Hillcrest Foundation Board to accomplish the goals that have been achieved.”

Hillcrest Foundation board members are Barnett, Aaron Thompson, Cody Siegfried, Kristi Daum, Don Harpst, Danielle Johnson, Mike Scolout, Randy Dean and Barnett.

Volunteers for the fundraiser included Hillcrest employees, community members, as well as those on the steering committee: Jamie Mockry, Midge Forbes, Tamra Neel, Jackie Reiners, Pat Glebe and Kelsey Schwab.