The Ginkgo Society: Creating a lasting impact of service, generosity
The Ginkgo Society: Creating a lasting impact of service, generosity The Ginkgo Society Creating a lasting impact of service, generosity Robin Henry has always felt a deep connection to her community. A Richmond native, she has dedicated her life to giving back, ensuring the place she calls home continues to thrive for generations to come.
One of the ways she's making a lasting impact is through the Reid Health Foundation's Ginkgo Society, a special group honoring individuals who gift support at Reid Health through planned giving. Named after the resilient Ginkgo tree that has stood on the Reid Health campus since 1905, the society embodies a lasting legacy of care, comfort, and renewal for future generations.
"For me, it's always been about neighbors taking care of each other, and I find a lot of comfort in that as someone who lives here," Henry said. "I think it's a way to help give back to the community and to make sure we continue to provide the outstanding care that we do."
Henry's journey with planned giving began when she included the Reid Health Foundation in her will. When she learned about the Ginkgo Society, she saw an opportunity to make a difference now.
"I thought, 'This is my original intent, and if I can make that irrevocable now, then I can start making a difference today.' That was really important to me, and I hope others can see they can do something similar," Henry said.
Henry's philanthropic spirit has been shaped by the experiences and values instilled in her from her parents.
"When I was growing up, I watched my dad become involved in a lot of civic organizations, and that's just how I learned to give back, watching both of my parents," she said.
"Now that I'm retired, I have more time to give, and I'm trying to do that in a variety of ways. I'm still active on different boards and organizations, but I'm also volunteering more, and I have really enjoyed doing that."
Jason Troutwine, Reid Health Vice President/Reid Foundation President, has worked alongside Henry through the Foundation and while serving on community boards.
"Robin selflessly serves others, giving back to our communities to build a lasting legacy of care for generations to come," Troutwine said.
"We appreciate Robin's tireless dedication and the energy she brings as she quietly works to uplift those around her, giving without expectation, and helping our communities thrive in health and well-being."
Beyond financial contributions, Henry has found fulfillment in community initiatives, including the ReidRide, an event that brought families together to support local healthcare efforts.
"I've really enjoyed doing the ReidRide. It was something families could participate in together, and it also taught younger children they can do something for their community," she said. "It's about building relationships and listening to personal stories."
As a member of Reid's Governing Board, Henry is Chair of the Community Well-Being Committee. She's also on the committees for quality, strategic planning, and board and leadership development.
She is also an active member of the Reid Health Foundation, serving as a member of the governance, philanthropy, and events committees.
Henry has served on community boards such as Richmond Art Museum as treasurer, Friends Fellowship Community, Wayne County Foundation, Indiana University East Board of Advisors, and the Beth Boruk Temple Board.
She firmly believes in the value of Reid Health in the community, not only as a healthcare provider but as part of the region's economy.
"I think our community is truly blessed to have Reid serving us, and I can't imagine what it would be like without it," she said. "Reid is integral to the emotional and physical well-being of our community, as well as our economic development. It's a major employer."
Henry recalls a particularly touching moment at a county fair when a woman shared how Reid saved her life. The woman had been told she needed a mammogram but couldn't afford one. But because the Reid Foundation raises funds to provide the preventive screenings for women and men free of charge, the woman could get a mammogram. She was diagnosed with cancer and went through treatment.
"That's what we're here for — to take care of each other. If I can be a small part of that, I want to be," Henry said.
Henry has designated her gift to the Reid Foundation to be used where the need is greatest.
"I hope my gift and the gifts others make can help lessen people's burdens and provide the best possible healthcare by the people who care about them the most — their community, their friends, and their neighbors."
In recognition of her gift, Reid Health will name the Oncology Conference Room in the Outpatient Care Center on the main campus in Richmond in her honor.
"Robin's impact on Reid Health and our community is significant. She has invested her time, talent and treasure to improve the lives of others and I'm pleased she's allowing us to name this space in her honor," Troutwine said.
For Henry, giving back isn't about the amount but about the act itself. "Everybody's circumstances are different," she said. "It's just about knowing in some way, you can help. This is just an example of what someone can do, and we all, in our own way, can help each other."