Stories
We are impacting lives in Orange County everyday with the generous support of donors.

Left to Right: Nicole Orr, chief philanthropy officer, Dr. Youhanna Gad, 2023 awardee, Randy Castillo, chief executive
“Our experience at St. Mary’s was great. My son was very happy with his care, which is saying a lot considering he’s an RRT. He was thankful for the care he received.”
Philanthropy Physician Champion Awards 2023
Providence South Division Philanthropy honored eight physicians at its annual Philanthropy Physician Champion Awards event held on October 30 at Terranea Resort in Rancho Palos Verdes. These physicians were recognized for their commitment to creating a culture of philanthropy at their medical campuses.
The evening was filled with memorable moments that took us inside the life of each awardee — giving attendees the opportunity to learn more about the compassionate physicians whose commitment to help us provide exceptional care to our communities extends beyond the bedside.
The Philanthropy Physician Champion Award was created to celebrate physicians who partner closely with the foundation to advance philanthropic priorities that further support our mission. Providence ministries nominated noteworthy physicians from their respective organizations across Los Angeles County, Orange County and the High Desert.
“The physicians we’re honoring are emblematic of the enduring collaboration between our hospitals and their foundations,” says Kenya Beckmann, chief philanthropy and health equity officer, Providence South Division. “As we mark the second year of this prestigious award, their dedication serves as the gold standard for physician engagement.”
Providence St. Mary Medical Center Foundation was proud to recognize Youhanna Gad, M.D., as its 2023 Philanthropy Physician Champion. His unwavering dedication to the people, programs and services are a reminder of the close collaboration that exists between the foundation and Providence St. Mary Medical Center.
More Stories
A Year of Transformation
“As we plan for the next five years, we know we can count on the community to partner with us…
A Man of Service
For Richard Schmitt, service has always been at the core of his identity. Whether as an Air Force veteran or…
Promoting Community Well-Being
Providence St. Mary Medical Center is significantly improving public health in the High Desert with a groundbreaking $1.2 million grant…
Celebrating Dr. Prashanth Kumar
Providence St. Mary Medical Center Foundation is proud to honor Prashanth Kumar, M.D., as the 2024 Philanthropy Physician Champion Awards…
Lovingood Legacy
To recognize more than three decades of generosity, the Foundation honored the Lovingoods with the prestigious Spirit Award.
More Stories

Navigating the Cancer Journey
When Jane was diagnosed with breast cancer, Nurse Navigator Angela Acevedo became her advocate, guide and support -- from the initial meeting with the oncologist to the final chemotherapist treatment. I will never forget all the ways Angela helped me through a very difficult time in my life,” reflects Jane.
Read Story
Minutes that make a difference
Michael Lora woke up not knowing he would be fighting for his life later that day. Within hours he was being transported to St. Joseph Hospital Emergency Care Center. He was immediately met by a team of nurses and doctors, including Dr. Peter Smethurst who recommended antibiotics which ended up saving his life.
Read Story
The heart of the matter
“I was a ticking time bomb. A heart attack waiting to happen.” Carrol was informed she needed immediate bypass surgery, but a rare genetic disorder would make it unsafe to perform. That’s when St. Joseph Hospital came through with a new, minimally invasive technique.
Read Story
Giving from the heart and home
Now retired, Drs. Amin decided they were at the right time in their lives to downsize, but more importantly, to give back to the community they cherished in a significant way. Their extraordinary generosity will help fund Nursing Excellence and Behavioral Health.
Read Story
A life devoted to caring
Shirley Moretti, a donor and friend, said it best. “When we focus on others, we learn about ourselves.” Giving back to others was one of her greatest joys in life — it filled her heart and inspired countless others to follow in her footsteps.
Read Story
One of the best ever
More than 300 golfers enjoyed a day that included two 18-hole courses of golf and raised more than $405,000 in support of the St. Joseph Hospital’s Cardiovascular Program.
Read Story
A record-breaking event
Supported by Marsha Moeller and presented by Centaurus Financial, Inc. and The Gooding-Barry and Immell Families, Celebration 2019 raised a record-breaking $676,000 for the Nursing Center of Excellence while celebrating 90 years of healing at St. Joseph Hospital.
Read StoryA Year of Transformation
“As we plan for the next five years, we know we can count on the community to partner with us to provide access to new and improved services,” says Nicole Orr, chief philanthropy officer, Providence St. Mary Medical Center Foundation.
Share