Throughout 2025, Helen Newberry Joy Hospital & Healthcare Center remained deeply rooted in its mission of patient-centered, community-focused care. From facility improvements at the start of the year to community events, fundraisers, volunteer efforts, and meaningful partnerships throughout every season, this year was defined by connection, compassion, and collaboration.
Here’s a look back at the moments that shaped our year.
Starting the Year Strong: Growth & Ongoing Support
Pharmacy & Coumadin Clinic Renovations – January 30
We began the year by reopening our newly renovated Pharmacy and Coumadin Clinic, offering patients an improved, updated space for their medication and care needs. These renovations reflect our continued commitment to enhancing services and creating a positive experience for everyone who walks through our doors.
Parkinson’s Disease Support Group – Ongoing
Held on the last Monday of every month, our Parkinson’s Disease Support Group continued to provide a welcoming space for individuals living with Parkinson’s, caregivers, and loved ones. The group offers connection, shared experiences, and support, reminding participants they are never alone.
Community Blood Drives – Throughout the Year
HNJH supported community blood drives throughout the year, including events hosted at Trinity Lutheran Church. Each donation played a vital role in helping save lives and supporting patients in need.
DAISY Foundation and Award Program – Throughout the Year
Helen Newberry Joy Hospital is proud to support the DAISY Foundation, which recognizes the extraordinary compassion and care nurses provide every day. Created in memory of J. Patrick Barnes, the DAISY Award honors nurses who make a meaningful difference in the lives of patients and families.
Spring & Summer: A Season of Community
Women’s Resource Fair – May 10
We kicked off the warmer months with our very first Women’s Resource Fair, welcoming nearly 30 vendors offering resources ranging from traditional healthcare to holistic wellness and lifestyle services. With live music, shopping, and opportunities for connection, the event created a space centered on self-care and empowerment. The response was overwhelming, and we’re excited to continue this as an annual tradition, with the next fair planned for May 16, 2026.
Supporting Students & Future Healthcare Careers
Throughout the spring, HNJH continued its commitment to education through the Health Careers Scholarship Program, supporting graduating seniors from Tahquamenon Area and Engadine Consolidated School Districts who are pursuing healthcare-related careers.
Veterans Resource Fair – June 4 & 5
In partnership with Together With Veterans Upper Peninsula and the Michigan Center for Rural Health, we proudly hosted Veterans Resource Fairs dedicated to honoring and supporting those who have served. Veterans were connected with employment, education, housing, healthcare, dental services, and family programs. We were also proud to support local veterans by donating funds to help provide gas cards distributed at the fair.
Community Support & Volunteer Efforts
HNJH staff volunteered throughout the year at Feeding America’s Mobile Pantry at the Dunlap Center, helping provide groceries to individuals and families in need.
Gibson Family Health Clinic Open House – July 10
A major milestone was celebrated with the completion of renovations at the Gibson Family Health Clinic. Community ambassadors joined us for a ribbon-cutting ceremony and guided tours of the updated space—an important step in expanding access to care for the Newberry community.
Fourth of July Parade With Golden Leaves Senior Living – July 4
Residents of Golden Leaves Senior Living Community enjoyed a front-row seat to the Independence Day parade, with several even riding through the celebration themselves. It was a joyful way to share in the festivities.
Helen Newberry Joy Hospital Foundation 15th Annual Golf Outing – July 18
The 15th Annual Golf Outing brought together 34 teams for a day of friendly competition and giving back. Thanks to generous sponsors and participants, the event raised a record amount for the Health Careers Scholarship Fund. We’re already looking forward to continuing this tradition on July 17, 2026.
Run for Joy 5K & Walk – August 23
We wrapped up the summer with the annual Run for Joy 5K and Walk, supporting athletics programs at Tahquamenon Area Schools and Engadine Consolidated Schools. Runners and walkers of all ages came together for an active day in support of local students.
Fall: Giving Back, Raising Awareness, and Honoring Others
Pay It Forward Friday – September 4
HNJH participated in Pay It Forward Friday to honor the memory of Marissa Lasslett, a 2015 Newberry graduate. Proceeds supported two memorial scholarships, one for students pursuing art or teaching and another for those attending 4-H Exploration Days, continuing Marissa’s legacy in a meaningful way.
Dig Pink Game – October 10
We were proud to take part in Engadine’s Dig Pink Game, joining the community in raising awareness and support for the fight against breast cancer.
Walk for Warmth – October 11
Community members came together for the Walk for Warmth, raising funds and awareness to support families in need of heating assistance during the colder months.
Neighbors Helping Neighbors Food Drive
Concern for food security inspired the Neighbors Helping Neighbors Community Food Drive, a collaborative effort to support families right here in Newberry.
Purse Bingo – November 6
Community members gathered at the American Legion in Newberry for a lively evening of Purse Bingo, bringing friends together for a night filled with fun, prizes, and connection. The event successfully raised funds to support Golden Leaves Living Center, benefiting local long-term care residents. We are grateful to everyone who attended, volunteered, and supported this event, and we’re already looking forward to doing it again next year.
Luce County Community Resource Fair – November 13
HNJH participated in the Luce County Community Resource Fair, offering valuable information and resources, including a Hidden in Plain Sight display and safe medication disposal.
Craft Silent Auction – November 17–19
Our Craft Silent Auction in the HNJH cafeteria highlighted handmade items created by local crafters, perfect for holiday gifting while supporting local talent.
Veterans Day Flag Dedication – November 11
On Veterans Day, we honored those who served with a Flag Dedication Ceremony outside the hospital’s main entrance, bringing the community together in gratitude.
National Rural Health Day – November 20
HNJH proudly joined rural communities nationwide in celebrating National Rural Health Day, highlighting the people and partnerships that strengthen rural healthcare.
Closing Out the Year: Continued Community Care (And More to Come!)
Narcan Distribution Box – December 9
In partnership with LMAS District Health Department and Luce County Communities That Care, HNJH helped place a free Narcan distribution box inside the hospital, expanding access to life-saving resources for the community.
Looking Ahead Into 2026
From starting the year with facility improvements to closing it with expanded community resources, 2025 was a powerful reflection of HNJH’s mission. We are grateful for our partners, volunteers, staff, and community members who made each initiative possible, and we look forward to continuing this work together in the year ahead.
