Avera Foundation

02/01/2026

The Avera Race Against Cancer is back on May 9! 💜

Let’s run, walk, and rally together for a cause that touches every life. Your steps make a difference—register today at averarace.org!

01/30/2026

The silent auction for the annual HeARTS in Healing Gala is open now and includes something for everyone! Custom made doll houses, high-end jewelry, once-in-a-lifetime sporting events, and so much more! All proceeds benefit patients receiving care at Avera Behavioral Health. Bid now at https://qtego.us/qlink/heartsinhealing

And don't forget to get your tickets to the event on Saturday, Feb. 7, the last day to purchase is Wednesday, Feb. 4. Get yours at Avera.org/HeartsInHealing

01/29/2026

On Friday, Jan. 23rd, we had a blast celebrating the annual Avera Queen of Peace Gala! Thank you to all who attended, participated or sponsored the project, your commitments will support the greatest needs at Avera Queen of Peace Hospital.

01/21/2026

The Avera Queen of Peace Gala is just days away and we are humbled to have so many outstanding event sponsors!

Join us in thanking all of these great partners in all they do to help bring this project to life and provide important funds to patients and families receiving care at Avera Queen of Peace Hospital.

Tickets: https://donate.averafoundation.org/event/queen-of-peace-gala/e729793
Silent Auction: https://qtego.us/qlink/atasteofitaly

01/16/2026

There's something for everyone on the Avera Queen of Peace Gala silent auction! More than 30 items are available for bidding with more added daily!

Register and bid now, all proceeds support Avera Queen of Peace.
https://qtego.us/qlink/atasteofitaly

01/12/2026

We are humbled to share that Avera Foundation has been named an Association for Healthcare Philanthropy (AHP) High Performer for the seventh consecutive year, placing among the top 25% in the U.S. and Canada for exceptional fundraising and overall impact.

💚This recognition belongs to you, our generous friends. “This award is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our philanthropy team, our inspiring caregivers, the support of our leadership, and the profound generosity of our donors.” — Dzenan Berberovic

Thank you to our supporters, caregivers, volunteers, and Foundation staff for making this possible. Learn more: https://www.avera.org/news-media/news/2025/avera-foundation-seventh-high-performer/

01/07/2026

ISO the very best desserts for the Avera Queen of Peace “A Night in Italy” Dessert Dash! 🍰✨

Do you know a talented baker with a knack for creating amazing desserts? We’re looking for dessert donations for this year’s gala, happening January 23, 2026, in Mitchell.

If you’d like to donate a dessert of your choice (homemade or purchased), please contact specialevents@avera.org or call 605-995-5773.

Your sweet contribution will help make this event unforgettable! ❤️

01/05/2026

Today, we honor longtime board member and co-chair of our historic Tomorrow’s Promise: The Campaign for Women and Children, Randy Knecht, as he begins retirement after more than 31 years of leadership with Journey Group and its predecessor organization, including serving as CEO.

Randy’s gentle leadership and passion for our ministry and community have made a lasting impact. We are thankful he will continue serving our organization as a member of the Avera McKennan Board of Directors and as co-chair of our campaign. Read more about Randy’s legacy and the difference he has made here:

"Think about the impact you’re leaving after the project is complete.” As this longtime CEO retires, his legacy exists across the Sioux Falls skyline and beyond.

01/02/2026

We hope you'll join us for the Avera Queen of Peace Gala on Friday, January 23rd. Purchase your tickets now by visiting Avera.org/QOPGala

By donating to the Avera Foundation, you support lifesaving services while making a difference in your community.

12/31/2025

As 2025 comes to a close, Linda and Alan Hartman are challenging friends of Avera to think about the impact health care has had on their loved ones — and to give back in gratitude.

Will you join us with a gift before the year ends? Every amount helps bring comfort to families, peace to those in need and hope to our neighbors.

https://www.averafoundationevents.org/donate-with-search

12/30/2025

✨⏳ The end of the year is almost here — which means the Avera Queen of Peace Gala is less than a month away! ✨

📅 Date: January 23, 2026
🕕 Time: 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM CST
📍Location: Highland Conference Center, Mitchell, SD

If you haven’t gotten your tickets yet, now is the time! 🎟️: https://donate.averafoundation.org/event/queen-of-peace-gala/e729793

Join us for an unforgettable evening supporting an incredible cause. 💙
Don’t wait — tickets are going fast, and you won’t want to miss this year’s celebration!

12/30/2025

Attention Year-End Donors!

New USPS postmark rules could affect whether your mailed gift counts for 2025 taxes.

✅ What changed?
Postmarks now happen at regional distribution centers—not local drop-off points. This means if you mail a check on Dec. 31, it might not get a 2025 postmark.

✅ What to do:
Mail ASAP!
Visit the post office and request a manual postmark or buy postage from a clerk.
Consider online giving for instant confirmation.

Whether you give to us or another amazing nonprofit, these tips help ensure your generosity counts in 2025!