Creating better health for our whole community
Since 2012, the Pawnee Valley Community Hospital Foundation has been dedicated to advancing quality healthcare in Pawnee County. In partnership with donors, the PVCH Foundation seeks to meet both immediate and long-range healthcare needs across the community.
From the hospital’s Healing Garden and Legacy Tree to its state-of-the-art advanced imaging technology and more, your generous contributions help us equip the hospital with much-needed resources to improve the health of our community. We cannot achieve this mission without the support of our donors, who are our partners in this journey. Learn more about the impact we make together here.
The PVCH Foundation is guided by a group of local trustees selected for their leadership and vision for the Foundation’s success. Each trustee values high-quality healthcare access for the people of Pawnee County and understands the importance of advancing healthcare in our community. The PVCH Foundation is a charitable, non-profit 501 (c) (3) organization. All donations are tax deductible and will be used to benefit our area.
Click here to make a donation to PVCH Foundation today.
More than a hospital: PVCH’s rural health success story
It’s amazing what this community can achieve when we come together for a common cause. When Pawnee Valley Community Hospital faced possible closure and the loss of its critical access licensing status, the Larned community rallied in support of PVCH. Not only did the hospital avoid closure, but the community’s support helped PVCH grow into a patient-centered, community-driven resource capable of offering healthcare services not typically found in small communities like ours.
The hospital has undergone a transformation, thanks to the determination and passion of those who helped fight to keep it open. Today, the hospital campus is beautifully designed and thriving with the help of an energized and caring staff, as well as a partnership with HaysMed. PVCH offers a wide range of services, including:
- Family medicine/primary care
- 24/7 emergency care
- Women’s healthcare
- Post-acute skilled nursing/swing bed program
- Specialized nursing services
- Surgical services
- High-complexity laboratory services
- Imaging center featuring a 64-slic CT scanner and a wide bore, short-tube 1.5 Tesla MRI
- Physical, occupational and speech therapy
- Cardiopulmonary rehabilitation
- Sleep studies and diagnostics
- Wound care and more
Learn more about Pawnee Valley Community Hospital here.
Thank you for achieving and celebrating milestones with us
The PVCH Foundation was established in 2012 with the aim of improving healthcare services provided by the hospital. We celebrated our 10-year anniversary at Glory Be in March 2022, where the community was invited to enjoy food and fellowship in honor of all we achieved together throughout our first decade. Enjoy some photos from that event below – and we look forward to celebrating many more milestones with all of you!
Upcoming Events
The Pawnee Valley Community Hospital Foundation Kansas Kentucky Derby is rapidly approaching.
Charity event to support the purchase of new x-ray equipment at Pawnee Valley Community Hospital.
Event Start Time: 5:45 p.m.
Location: Larned Community Center, 1500 Toles Ave. Larned Kansas
To purchase tickets ($75), or for more information, please contact the PVCH Foundation at 620-285-8632 or dakota.thacker@haysmed.com.
10th Anniversary
Where caring and compassion drive health and progress
Since our inception, the Pawnee Valley Community Hospital Foundation has been raising and investing funds to improve healthcare in Pawnee County. Through events like the Gala and Golden Ticket—and the generosity of all our donors and supporters—a number of hospital projects have been made possible, including:
The Healing Garden: The Healing Garden at PVCH is a sanctuary for patients and their families during the healing process—a place where they can enjoy the beauty of nature in a tranquil, meditative setting.
Legacy Tree: This beautiful tree in the hospital’s entrance hall honors loved ones and those who support the PVCH Foundation. Donations made through the tree help us advance our mission to improve care in Pawnee County.
Automatic Infusion Pumps: To support high-quality patient care, these pumps simplify medication delivery in the emergency department, acute care, surgery, specialized nursing, and skilled nursing units.
GE Optima CT660: The 64-slice CT scanner is among the world’s most energy-efficient scanners. Provided in partnership with tax credits and Lewis Young, in honor of his late wife Pat Young, the low-dose CT scanner reduces radiation exposure to the patient.
C-Arm Fluoroscope: Physicians operate this device to guide needles using a live X-ray screen. It is utilized in our pain clinic to place patient injections.
Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS): This device protects MRI and CT electrical components from power surges.
Digital Portable X-ray: Physicians use the machine to instantly review pictures taken for non-mobile patients.
Mechanical Ceiling Patient Lift: The lift helps prevent injuries to staff and patients during imaging procedures.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging Machine (MRI): This is the same machine used by HaysMed but with a wider, shorter bore. It has a bigger opening for patients who suffer from claustrophobia.
Dual-Head Nuclear Camera: The nuclear camera examines organ functions and is an instrumental part of the care offered by the Pat Young Imaging Center.
Emergency Room Trauma Carts: These carts allow X-ray films underneath the bed to reduce movement, which benefits trauma patients.
Biodex Balance SD Assessment and Conditioning Machine: This technology provides a state-of-the-art physical therapy tool. It helps with wellness, sports medicine, orthopedic issues, concussion management, balance testing, training and documentation. This machine provides a comprehensive fall risk screening and conditioning program and protocol consistent with American Geriatrics guidelines.
VitalStim Therapy: This noninvasive speech therapy tool uses an electrical current to stimulate the muscles responsible for swallowing. PVCH is the only hospital within a 50-mile radius to provide this service.
TRONIX Scales: Two new scales for clinic use, with arms to support and reduce falls.
Respite Care Room in Memoriam of Kendall Beckwith: This special room, with a view of the Healing Garden, provides hospice patients and families with a homelike atmosphere for stays up to five days.
Maintenance Items: Including cold water pressure washer, sand and salt spreader, and a mower with snow sweeper.
Bariatric Room: A specialized patient room containing bariatric equipment and supplies.
Special Nursing: A Peripherally Inserted Central Catheter (PICC) is used for long-term intravenous (IV) antibiotics, nutrition or medication and blood draws.
Clinitek Urinalysis: Purchased for the lab and the clinic to test urine for different analysis scenarios.
3D Mammography Machine: Purchased for the Pat Young Imaging Center in 2020.
To be a part of this healthy, community-focused impact, make a donation to PVCH Foundation today.
Help us build a healthier future for Pawnee County
By making a tax-deductible donation, you can contribute to the vital care that Pawnee Valley Community Hospital delivers. Each donation advances PVCH’s ability to provide high-quality healthcare services in our community, now and for years to come. Every day, we are inspired by the kindness of our donors, who share our commitment to making better healthcare – and better health – accessible for all.
To make a donation, please send a check, payable to Pawnee Valley Community Hospital Foundation, to this address:
Pawnee Valley Community Hospital Foundation
923 Carroll Avenue
Larned, KS 67550
Would you like to make a legacy gift in honor of someone whose memory you hold dear? Learn more here.
If you have questions or need any additional assistance, please call us at 620-285-8632.
When “thank you” doesn’t feel like enough
Patients often ask how they can thank their providers and staff for the exceptional care they provide each day. The Healthcare Stars program is designed for those special moments when you would like to do more for your care team at Pawnee Valley Community Hospital.
Your gift recognizes the people who cared for you and directly supports the care they provide by funding new equipment, technology and initiatives that help PVCH continue to provide state-of-the-art care in our area.
We would be delighted to honor them with a Healthcare Star pin, symbolizing their exceptional dedication to patient care. Every gift, regardless of its size, bolsters our mission and inspires our staff.
Every nominee is commemorated with a certificate, and their name is placed on the Healthcare Stars plaque. They also receive a HealthCare Star pin, which symbolizes their exceptional commitment to patient care.
Help a Healthcare Star shine
Want to acknowledge a PVCH provider or team member for the exceptional care they have given you or your family? Complete and return this form with your optional financial contribution. If a specific provider, nurse, team member or volunteer significantly impacted your life or the life of a loved one, please let us know.
All donations to the Pawnee Valley Community Hospital Foundation, a not-for-profit organization, are tax deductible and will be used to benefit our area.
Meet our latest Healthcare Star
We want to congratulate family medicine provider Susan Aistrup, APRN, on being recognized as a PVCH Foundation Healthcare Star by Lori and Brian Hammeke:
“I went to see Susan a week before I was getting married. She really listened and did all she could to make me feel better before the wedding. She is following up with me to ensure I continue to feel good. She is very caring! I appreciate all Susan did for me.”
Susan’s empathy and commitment have had a profound effect on the lives of her patients. Her dedication to providing exceptional healthcare exemplifies the highest standards of excellence possible. Her patients are truly fortunate to have her as an advocate and caregiver.
Interested in other ways to give? Learn more about our Legacy Gifts and other ways to donate today.
Securing our legacy in the community and to the hospital
Pawnee Valley Community Hospital Foundation was envisioned to help build upon the Pawnee Valley Hospital’s vital healthcare mission. The Foundation is guided by a group of local trustees selected for their leadership roles in the community and for their vision for the success of the Foundation. Each trustee understands the value of quality healthcare for the citizens of Pawnee County and knows the importance of staying on top of the advancing healthcare needs in our community.
Several community-oriented projects are on the calendar for 2024, including:
- Healthcare Stars program
- Pawnee Valley Community Hospital Associates Campaign
- Golf Tournament
- Partnering with Pawnee Valley Community Hospital Family Medicine on a program to teach young children the basics of health and the hospital.
- Foundation Fundraiser
- Golden Ticket Fundraiser
In Memory and Honor
If you would like to make a tax-deductible contribution in the name of a lost friend or loved one and make a difference in your community and Pawnee Valley Community Hospital, there are several options.
Learn more about donating to Pawnee Valley Community Hospital Foundation.
After you make your memorial gift, we will notify the family of the deceased of your gift. You will also receive an acknowledgment for tax record purposes.
How do I make a memorial gift to the Pawnee Valley Community Hospital Foundation?
You can ask the Funeral Director to use specific language online or in an obituary:
“Instead of flowers, the family wishes donations in memory of (Name of Loved One) to Pawnee Valley Community Hospital Foundation, 923 Carroll Ave, Larned, KS 67550.”
Can funds be used for a dedicated space at Pawnee Valley Community Hospital?
Yes, we offer two unique and beautiful options to honor your loved one:
Leaves of Life—The tree, located in the main hall of the hospital, honors loved ones passed and celebrates the lives of those still with us. Your gift of $250 or more purchases a gold leaf on the tree, serving as a long and lasting gift of recognition.
Healing Garden Bricks—Commemorate someone special with a legacy brick paver, which provides a lasting tribute to a family member, friend or loved one while generously supporting the Pawnee Valley Community Hospital Foundation. With a gift of $50, an individual will be honored with their name engraved on a brick paver that will line the pathway in the Healing Garden at Pawnee Valley Community Hospital.
A legacy gift can be made to honor a loved one (living or deceased) or for milestone occasions such as treatment completion, birthdays, holidays, a significant accomplishment or milestone, recovery, retirement or to leave a family legacy.
For more information, download our brochure or contact us by phone at 620-285-8632 or email.
Get in touch with PVCH Foundation
Mailing Address
923 Carroll Ave.
Larned, KS 67550
Physical Address
923 Carroll Ave.
Larned, KS 67550
Phone Numbers
Office Number: 620-285-8632
Fax Number: 620-285-8883
Meet our trustees
Our trustees are dedicated and passionate about leading with foresight to ensure the success of our mission to improve community health through programs and services that support Pawnee Valley Community Hospital. They are committed to enhancing healthcare accessibility and advancing the well-being of residents of Pawnee County. Each trustee brings a wealth of leadership experience and a deep understanding of the vital role that healthcare plays in our community.
Lewis Young, Emeritus
Lewis is a founding trustee for the Foundation. He is instrumental in bringing several critical projects to a reality and is an integral part of the growth of the PVCH Foundation.
Kyle Beckwith, President
Kyle has been with Pawnee Valley Community Hospital Foundation since its inception. He is active in the community and is a positive representative for the Board, healthcare and the Foundation.
Jon Skelton, Vice President
Jon Skelton is the former president of the PVCH Foundation. He has been with the Foundation for four years, bringing financial knowledge and his previous leadership experience. He serves as a board member to help ensure high-quality healthcare remains available to the residents of Pawnee County well into the future.
Vicki Spina, Secretary
Vicki has been with the Foundation since 2020 and is a vital asset to the Trustees. She volunteers for the PVCH Foundation Gala and actively participates in the community. She is passionate about advancing quality healthcare for the residents of Pawnee County and its surrounding areas.
Melanie Urban, Trustee
Melanie Urban, BSN, RN, serves as Administrator of Pawnee Valley Community Hospital. She has over 30 years of healthcare experience in administration, risk management, accreditation, quality, infection prevention, associate health, case management, and nursing. Melanie received her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Fort Hays State University in 1993.
Melanie serves on numerous community organizations in Larned, including the Lions Club and Local Emergency Planning Committee. She is a past president of the Kansas Association of Risk and Quality Management. Melanie is also a member of the American College of Healthcare Executives. Melanie has been part of the Board since 2019.
Julie Munden, Trustee
Julie volunteered to serve as a trustee to ensure the hospital grows and provides more opportunities for local healthcare services and job opportunities in the community.
Julie has a communications degree from Fort Hays State University and has worked as an admissions representative and in public relations/marketing for Barton Community College for 22 years. She also teaches video production to students at Larned High School and Larned Middle School. Julie also volunteers with Sacred Heart Catholic Church and is a former Dress It Up board member.
She and her husband, Rob, have three children and one grandchild.
Shannon Fischer, Trustee
Shannon is a lifelong Larned resident and a Kansas State University graduate. She worked for more than 10 years as an activity therapist at Larned State Hospital and 10 years as a business development coordinator at First State Bank. She is a realtor with Clock Realty and Insurance and operates a farm west of Larned with her husband. They have two children.
Shannon also serves as president of Prairie Arts Unlimited and has previously served on the Pawnee County Economic Development Board, the Santa Fe Trail Center Board and as a Larned Area Chamber of Commerce Ambassador. She hopes to use her background to support the hospital and the community.
James Armijos, Trustee
Brock Miller, Trustee
Our Community Cares
PVCH Foundation would like to express our gratitude to our business partners who have contributed to the success of the Foundation and Pawnee Valley Community Hospital. We are immensely thankful for their unwavering support and commitment to PVCH and the surrounding community. Visit the links below to learn more about each of our partners. We invite you to consider supporting them when you need their services.
PACESETTER LEVEL ~ $5,000 and above
HaysMed is a 200+ bed hospital, and the only tertiary care center in our region. Across our expansive network of care, we share a common mission, vision and set of values that guide everything we do, both for our patients and the communities we serve.
Since 1923, Beckwith Mortuary and Beckwith Funeral Home have provided exemplary funeral services not measured by gold but by the Golden Rule. Beckwith Mortuary is the only family owned and operated facility of its kind in Larned.
Country Living of Larned
Located next to Pawnee Valley Community Hospital, we offer Home Plus options and memory care designed to feel just like home. Community, family and friends are at the core of the high-quality care we provide to each resident.
Haynes Electric, Inc.
Since 1963, Haynes Electric has been a leader in the community, giving back their time and talent. Run by Jim and Suzan Haynes, we employee 23 people locally.
Innovative Livestock Services, Inc.
Located in the heart of cattle country in Kansas and Nebraska, ILS is an organization of feed yards and farms working together to care for cattle and provide for the families that make us successful.
Pawnee Valley Community Hospital
Pawnee Valley Community Hospital’s goal is patient-centered and community-driven and offers services not typically offered in a facility and community the size of Larned (Pawnee County). Services include 24/7 Emergency Room, acute and skilled nursing, specialized nursing services, a high complexity laboratory, an imaging center featuring a 64-slice CT scanner and a wide-bore, short-tube 1.5 Tesla MRI, physical therapy and advanced rehabilitation cardiac and pulmonary services and a top-notch sleep and diagnostic center.
Leaders Level -$2,500 to 4,999
First State Bank & Trust Co. attributes its longevity to dedicated people and a commitment to quality. Rated 5-Stars by Bauer Financial and listed among the strongest banks in the U.S. by Weiss Ratings, First State has locations in Larned, Pratt, Overland Park and Iuka.
Larned Eye Health
Eyecare of Great Bend and Larned Eye Health have been a leading provider of optometry services and vision care products in the Great Bend and Larned communities since 1996. Their experienced eye doctors, Dr. Douglas D. Ayre and Dr. Reed A. McAtee, offer comprehensive vision examinations at both optometry offices. They specialize in diagnosing and treating various eye diseases, conditions, and problems, using advanced diagnostic technology and vision correction products and are committed to improving the quality of life of people in their communities through enhanced vision.
2024 13th Annual Golf Tournament
2023 12th Annual Golf Tournament
2023 Martinis Under the Moonlight Gala
