News

HAMILTON, Mont. — The Bitterroot Health Foundation will host its annual Gala on Friday evening, June 27, 2025, on the historic grounds of the Daly Mansion. This year’s theme, The Art of Giving is the Heart of Healing, highlights the connection between philanthropy and healthcare.

The event brings together Ravalli County business leaders, donors and hospital employees to celebrate the success of Bitterroot Health and to thank those who make its continued growth possible.

Guests will enjoy elegant décor, a four-course dinner prepared by The Catered Table, and live music by a professional pianist. A highlight of the evening will be the live auction, featuring:

1. A 24x48-inch framed painting by Troy Collins — a smaller replica of Healing Waters, the 12x4-foot piece located in the Daly Hospital entryway.

1. A distinguished Howard Miller grandfather clock.

1. A luxurious seven-night stay at a private hilltop villa in Tuscany, Italy. The historic four-bedroom villa includes a private pool, stunning vistas and accommodation for up to eight guests.

1. A seven-night stay in a palatial, two-bedroom canal-side villa in Venice, Italy. With five-star furnishings, the space is designed for up to four guests.

The Tuscany and Venice travel packages are provided by a luxury travel agency. Winners will work with a concierge to book travel within the next 12 months, for a stay scheduled within 24 months. Airfare is not included. Guests can enhance their stay with optional amenities such as a private chef or massage therapist.

According to Bitterroot Health CEO John Bishop, last year’s Gala raised $70,000, which helped purchase 11 medical scanning workstations for the Emergency Department.

“The generosity of our businesses, donors and employees is truly inspiring,” Bishop said. “These funds directly benefit everyone in Ravalli County.”

While the theme and activities vary from year to year, the Gala is always held at the Daly Mansion. The location honors the legacy of Margaret Daly, who fully funded the construction, staffing and operations of Marcus Daly Memorial Hospital in 1931 — during the height of the Great Depression. That single hospital has since grown into the Bitterroot Health System: Daly Hospital, 15 associated primary and specialty clinics, and three Urgent Care locations.

“This year, we’ll be honoring four donors, and guests will be amazed at what they gave to support new medical equipment and training,” said Al Garver, Senior Director of the Bitterroot Health Foundation. “It really makes everyone feel proud when we see generosity like this in our own community.”

The 2025 Gala will be held on the front lawn of the Daly Mansion, located at 251 Eastside Highway in Hamilton. Dinner begins at 6 p.m., with check-in and appetizers starting at 5 p.m. Attire ranges from summer smart casual to semi-formal or formal.

For more information or to purchase tickets or tables, please visit: www.bitterroothealth.org/gala or contact the Bitterroot Health Foundation directly: (406) 375-4674. To learn more about the Foundation, please visit www.bitterroothealth.org/Foundation