Natividad Foundation marks 35th anniversary with $350,000 gift from local ag businesses and special artistic performance remembering nurse Wendy Baker


Salinas, Calif. – Natividad Foundation celebrated its 35th anniversary during their Annual Donor & Hero Award Celebration, which took place on October 26. The evening was filled with entertainment, recognition, and gratitude, showcasing the Foundation’s dedication to its mission.

One of the evening’s highlights was the check presentation by The Agricultural Leadership Council (TALC). In 2023, TALC members collectively contributed $350,000 to Natividad Foundation. Since 2010, TALC has raised $4,519,200 for Natividad and has funded 680 pieces of critically needed medical equipment and special programs, like spiritual care and diabetes prevention education.

John D’Arrigo, founder of TALC and CEO/President and Chairman of the Board, D’Arrigo California, said, “TALC is a unique example of partners and competitors coming together in support of a shared vision. We all see the direct link between a well-resourced safety net hospital and the health of agricultural workers and their families.”


Natividad Foundation was delighted to present the 2023 Hero Awards to five exceptional teens:
Anastasia “Annie” Perez, Sebastian Perez, Hailey Robertson, Kenzie Robertson, and Tyler Robertson for their philanthropic work of coordinating the annual bake sales supporting the Wendy Baker RN Memorial Fund. Natividad Foundation’s “Hero” Award was established in 2008 to recognize and honor individuals and organizations that have made significant contributions toward fulfilling Natividad’s mission to provide essential health care services for everyone in Monterey County.


The event featured world-renowned Speed Painter Amy Burkman, whose extraordinary talent brought a blank canvas to life in less than 10 minutes. Amy’s artistic expression captured the spirit of Natividad’s friend, the late Wendy Baker. A special edition of “The Price Is Right” game show also added a special and entertaining twist to the evening’s program.


For more information about the Natividad Foundation and its mission, please visit
www.natividadfoundation.org

About Natividad Foundation
Natividad Foundation’s donors transform health care into healing by developing innovative programs and funding technologically advanced medical equipment to enhance Natividad and support its high-quality care. Established in 1988, Natividad Medical Foundation is a 501(c)3 charitable organization. For more information, visit www.natividadfoundation.org

About Natividad Medical Center
Natividad is a hospital and trauma center providing high-quality health care to everyone in Monterey County, regardless of ability to pay. Located in Salinas, Calif., Natividad is a public health care system offering a wide range of inpatient, outpatient, emergency, diagnostic and specialty medical care. Learn more at www.natividad.com.

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT:
Jennifer William, President and CEO of Natividad Foundation
831-251-1561
jennifer@natividadfoundation.org