20 Years of Heart: Celebrating the Care Dimensions – Kaplan Family Hospice House 20th Anniversary Gala

A Milestone Evening

On Thursday, June 12, 2025, Care Dimensions hosted a gala at the Kernwood Country Club in Salem, Massachusetts to commemorate the 20-year journey of the Kaplan Family Hospice House (KFHH).  The gathering included community supporters, staff, volunteers and honoured guests—all marking two decades of compassionate end-of-life care.

Legacy and Impact

Since its opening in 2005, the Kaplan Family Hospice House has served thousands of patients and families with dignity and support in a homelike environment.

Highlights of its history:

• Land purchased in 2003 on Liberty Street, Danvers, MA.
• Opened in 2005 as the first-of-its-kind hospice house in Massachusetts.
• Expanded in 2010 with the Ayer Anderson wing adding eight patient suites.
• Through 20 years, the facility has become a model of comfort-centered end-of-life care.

Celebratory Highlights

The gala produced several memorable moments:

• More than $214,000 was raised to support the Kaplan House’s mission and future.
• Two honorees were celebrated for their visionary leadership: Diane Stringer (former President & CEO) and Tom Ford (former Board member).
• Testimonials from families served by the Kaplan House emphasized the influence of compassionate care: “Twenty years ago, our leaders envisioned a place where families could find peace and comfort during some of the most difficult times…”—Dr. Stephanie Patel, President & CEO of Care Dimensions.

Looking Ahead: Mission & Future

This celebration underlines how the Kaplan House continues to evolve to meet community needs. Funds raised will support maintenance, enhancements to the facility and continued growth of services.
As noted by Heather Johnston, Vice President & Chief Development Officer for Care Dimensions:

“The support we received this evening will help ensure that the Kaplan House remains a warm, welcoming, and well-maintained home for hospice care for the next 20 years and beyond.”

For families facing advanced illness, the Kaplan Family Hospice House continues to deliver comfort, stability and respect.

On the Ground: What Made the Event Special

• Elegant venue at Kernwood Country Club created a dignified backdrop.
• Recognition of long-tenured team members reinforced institutional commitment.
• Visual storytelling with photos/videos of the Kaplan House gave context and emotional resonance.
• A clear call-to-action for continued philanthropic support.
• Warm rapport between staff, volunteers and the community created inclusive atmosphere.

Summary

The 20th Anniversary Gala for the Kaplan Family Hospice House was more than a celebration—it affirmed two decades of unwavering dedication to end-of-life care, honoured foundational leadership, raised substantial funds and set the path for future service. As it moves forward, the Kaplan House remains a beacon of compassionate care for patients and families in Massachusetts