While many programs and funds of The Bellin Health Foundation serve patients and departments, a number are also in place to support staff in a variety of ways. In 2008, a special fund was established as a way to support Bellin Health team members going through a hardship: The Robert Fry Employee Assistance Fund.
Robert Fry is a retired Bellin Health employee who started working for the organization as a social worker in 1975, working his way to leadership positions across the system. During his tenure with Bellin, he became aware of the need for assistance among employees with unexpected misfortune. Upon his retirement in 2008, Bellin Health honored him by establishing this fund in his honor.
Every Bellin employee is eligible to receive assistance, with the amount dependent on the need and availability of funds. These gifts support employees as they cope with unexpected hardships that place undue financial stress on them and their families. Funds are generously gifted to the Robert Fry Employee Assistance Program from external supporters through annual giving options, and from fellow team members through The Bellin Love Giving Campaign, an employee giving program.
Foundation team members recently connected with Fry to share the impact of his namesake fund, which has generated more than $1.3 million since its creation.
“What that says to me is people really have a giving attitude. It’s a testament to Bellin’s culture,” Fry said. He recalled other funds honoring former Bellin team members and said those funds, along with the Fry Fund, show Bellin Health is a culture where teammates take care of each other.