Smyth County Community Hospital HealthTrust Mardi Gras Gala raises $29,719 for healthcare scholarships

Community members gathered for an evening of celebration and philanthropy as the 13th annual Smyth County Community Hospital HealthTrust Mardi Gras Gala, held at Holston Hills Golf Course, raised $29,719 to support Smyth County residents pursuing careers in healthcare.

This year’s event, hosted by the Smyth County Community Hospital HealthTrust, an affiliate of Ballad Health Foundation, transported guests to the heart of New Orleans with festive décor and lively entertainment. Attendees enjoyed casino-style gaming purely for fun, with no real cash exchanged and no actual winnings awarded, adding an extra layer of excitement to the night.

Guests also had the opportunity to bid on unique items during a silent auction while enjoying delicious cuisine and fellowship with friends and neighbors. Proceeds from the gala are matched by the Smyth County Community Foundation and directly support the Changing Lives Through Healthcare Scholarship.

“The HealthTrust Gala continues to showcase the generosity and heart of our community,” said Valerie Armbrister, board chairman of the Smyth County Community Hospital HealthTrust. “Raising almost $30,000 through an evening of fun and fellowship speaks to the commitment our neighbors have to investing in the next generation of healthcare professionals. These scholarships truly change lives, and we are grateful to everyone who helped make this event a success.”

The Changing Lives Through Healthcare Scholarship supports Smyth County residents pursuing clinical healthcare careers, helping build a stronger local workforce and ensuring access to high-quality care close to home. The application period for the scholarship is currently open through April 5. For more information about the scholarship, visit smythccf.org/scholarships.

“Events like the Mardi Gras Gala demonstrate the power of community partnerships,” said Jack Simpson, president of Ballad Health Foundation. “Every dollar raised represents an investment in a student’s future and in the health of Smyth County. We are proud to support this initiative and grateful to everyone who contributed to a memorable and meaningful evening.”

Top sponsors of this year’s event include Presenting Sponsor – Old House Life (Michelle Bowers), Platinum Sponsor – Smyth County Family Physicians, and Gold Sponsors – Smyth County Community Hospital, Smyth County Community Foundation and General Dynamics.