Goshen Health Nurses give back to the community through t-shirt sales

The spirit of giving was on full display as Goshen Health Colleagues came together during Nurses Week and Hospital Week to support three local nonprofit organizations making a meaningful impact in the community: The Window, Crossroads United Way and First Light Mission. What began as a Nurses Week fundraiser in 2025 expanded this year through a partnership with Goshen Health’s Socialization and Wellness Action Council (SWAC), who coordinated Hospital Week activities. Together, nursing and SWAC invited Colleagues across the organization to participate in a T-shirt fundraiser, creating an opportunity for the entire Goshen Health team to support a meaningful cause with proceeds from the shirt sales distributed among the three selected nonprofits.

The organizations were chosen by nursing team members because of their meaningful impact on the health and well-being of residents throughout Elkhart County and the surrounding communities.

Among the recipients is The Window, which continues to provide critical services to local families during a period of transition. While temporarily closed, the organization is working toward long-term sustainability through a revised fundraising strategy, grant opportunities and major gift support.

"We are incredibly grateful to Goshen Health for their generous support during this important season for The Window” said Josh Varab, Interim Director at The Window. “For almost 60 years, The Window has served our community with compassion and dignity, providing food, clothing, meals and other essential services to nearly 1,500 families each month. Partnerships like this remind us that our community is strongest when we come together to care for our neighbors."

The fundraiser also benefited Crossroads United Way, which invests in programs and partnerships that strengthen education, health and financial stability throughout the region. "The timing of this gift from Goshen Hospital could not be better, as families in our area are struggling to meet basic needs presently, especially with inflationary pressures," states Bill Purcell, President/CEO of Crossroads United Way.

The generosity of Colleagues and nurses also helped First Light Mission, whose mission is to provide compassionate support and critical resources to individuals facing homelessness and other significant life challenges within the community. “We appreciate your support, especially when donations are down”, said Mindy Morehead, Director of First Light Mission. “It is fantastic seeing organizations come and support the community the way Goshen Health does.”

The donation reflects the nursing profession's commitment to caring for others not only within health care settings but throughout the community. By supporting these organizations, nursing staff and Colleagues have extended that spirit of compassion beyond their daily work and into the lives of neighbors who depend on local nonprofit services.

"I am continually inspired by the generosity and compassion of our Colleagues. Through the purchase of these t-shirts, our team has demonstrated that caring extends far beyond the walls of our organization,” said Julie Crossley, Chief Nursing Officer. "Every shirt purchased represents a commitment to supporting our community partners and the important work they do to improve the lives of those we serve. We are grateful for the enthusiasm and support shown by our Colleagues, and we are proud that the proceeds from this effort will help strengthen organizations that make our community healthier, stronger and more connected.”