Dear Friend of the Minneapolis Heart Institute Foundation:
In 1982, a small group of cardiovascular physicians at Abbott Northwestern
Hospital decided to create a non-profit organization dedicated to improving the
heart health of people here in Minnesota and, indeed, of people all over the
world who suffer from – or are at risk of – heart disease.
The organization they created, the Minneapolis Heart Institute Foundation,
was charged with two responsibilities: carrying out clinical cardiovascular
research and providing educational programs for the benefit of the general
public and of physicians in Minnesota, and beyond.
Thirteen physicians, committed to giving back to their community, donated $1
million to launch the Minneapolis Heart Institute Foundation. That beginning was
modest, to be sure. In the first full year of operation, 1983, the Foundation’s
budget was $200,000 and there were a total of five employees. The organization
participated in ?ve research studies and put on six educational events.
Thanks to the example set by the physicians of the Minneapolis Heart
Institute, and thanks to their ongoing leadership commitment, the Foundation has
grown impressively over the past twenty years. In 2002, our budget will be $4.5
million, the biggest in our history, and we currently have 38 employees. During
2001, we participated in over 60 different research studies, and put on 300
community education programs, all over Minnesota, with over half of those taking
place in elementary schools. Our endowments in support of our research and
education activities now stand at $11 million.
Foundation researchers partner with major research institutions all over the
world; contribute important articles to leading medical and scientific journals;
are asked to participate in prestigious trials of the most promising new
therapies; serve on distinguished advisory panels; and are asked to speak at
major international meetings. Our Education Division has created innovative
interactive programs to teach young people about the importance of heart health,
and we have partnered with the American Heart Association, the University of
Minnesota, the Science Museum of Minnesota, Great River Energy, and the State
Department of Health, among others, in trying to improve opportunities for young
people to lead heart healthy lives. We have been a resource for smoking
cessation, for community education programs, and for corporate wellness
initiatives.
Thirteen physicians provided the important initial investment that launched
the Minneapolis Heart Institute Foundation, but it is our many friends in the
community who, believing in the mission of this organization, have made our
tremendous growth possible. In 2002, we expect to raise $1 million from donors
across Minnesota, a remarkable testimonial of your belief in our commitment to
improving the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of all forms of heart
disease.
Thank you for loyal and generous support over the past 20 years. During 2002,
I hope you will join with us in celebrating our 20 years of service to the
community.
Sincerely,
Ford Watson Bell, DVM
