There seems to be some confusion about how the Center for Asbestos Related Disease (CARD) is funded. The CARD Foundation has had many questions over the years, and it’s time we address them. The CARD clinic is an independent, non-profit 501(c)(3) organization that is funded by billing for patient services, research dollars, a federal grant for asbestos health and lung cancer screening, and donations from individuals and foundations. CARD is governed by a local community-based volunteer Board of Directors.
We have recently been asked, “Where have all the millions gone?” “Why should I help CARD?”
In June 2018, Senators Steve Daines and Jon Tester made the announcement that CARD was re-awarded a $2.5 million dollar grant to continue providing asbestos-related healthcare. That federal money is SPECIFICALLY for the clinic’s free screening program and outreach and education about that program. The clinic CANNOT and DOES NOT use that money for anything else. If the grant money was used for anything other than what is required, CARD would lose that funding.
The cost of keeping a medical/research clinic running is immense. As reimbursement for healthcare services continue to decline, contributions to CARD are more important than ever. CARD relies on the generosity of donors to not only help continue our services, but also for things such as a handicapped accessible door for our patients, which the clinic currently doesn’t have. CARD is hoping to also have the parking lot, which is extremely small and dangerously sloped, redesigned and developed. That is a huge expense for which there will need to be fundraising.
We have also been asked, “What about all the money raised at the Big Sky Bash?”
Historically, the Big Sky Bash has just barely broken even, with very little profit made. However, the CARD Foundation feels it is an important event for our community. It raises awareness, cultivates comradery, brings people in from other places, allows the members of the Libby community to show off why we love it here so much, and it’s a lot of fun. Therefore we plan to continue hosting it every year on the second Saturday in July. Every year, the Foundation Board faces a tough decision on the headliner act as it isn’t easy to find an artist that meets everyone’s expectations. Thank you to Trish Morford with International Special Attractions/Rocky Mountain Talent Service for all of your help every year!
The CARD Foundation will be hosting a new event this year! The Cabin Fever Fest, featuring JamShack, will be held on February 2, 2019 at the Memorial Center. Tickets are $10 at the door, 21 and older. Come dance off those winter blues!
Please remember, should you have any questions or concerns, you can always call the clinic at 406-293-9274 and we will be happy to talk with you. Also remember that all donations to CARD are tax-deductible.
Donna Williams, Administrative Director, CARD Foundation, Libby, MONT.