Winchester, VA – May 15, 2024 – Blue Ridge Hospice proudly announces the establishment of the inaugural Helen Zebarth Legacy Society, paying tribute to the remarkable legacy of Helen Zebarth, the esteemed founder of Blue Ridge Hospice. The Society aims to honor her vision, inspire philanthropy, and ensure the continuity of compassionate end-of-life care for generations to come.

The inauguration ceremony, held at the Historic Rosemont Carriage House on May 8, 2024, witnessed a gathering of individuals, including members of the Helen Zebarth Legacy Society and prominent figures from the community. With a relaxed atmosphere fostering camaraderie among attendees, the event celebrated Helen Zebarth’s enduring impact on the community and the establishment of the society bearing her name.

Jason Parsons, CEO of Blue Ridge Hospice, expressed his gratitude and reflected on the extraordinary journey of Blue Ridge Hospice since its inception in 1981. He remarked, “What Helen Zebarth, the late George Caley, and their colleagues did here in 1981 was extraordinary. Despite the large geography we cover, Blue Ridge Hospice is recognized as the quality hospice leader in the Commonwealth of Virginia and among the best throughout the mid-Atlantic.”

The induction ceremony featured heartfelt remarks from key leaders, including Board Chair Richard Kennedy and Dr. Leonard Yang, former Board Chair, who shared personal anecdotes highlighting the profound impact of Helen Zebarth’s legacy on their lives and community.

Board Member Lynne Sayles Blue Ridge Hospice, presented certificates to the inaugural members of the Helen Zebarth Legacy Society, recognizing their commitment to furthering the mission of hospice care. The ceremony also included the unveiling of “Helen’s Honey Flutter,” a signature ice cream flavor crafted by Kimberly’s Market of Winchester, symbolizing the essence of Helen’s compassion and dedication.

With forty attendees present, including ten newly inducted members of the Helen Zebarth Legacy Society, the event marked a significant milestone in Blue Ridge Hospice’s journey toward sustaining and expanding its vital services.

Reflecting on the occasion, Parsons remarked, “The Helen Zebarth Legacy Society will ensure that Blue Ridge Hospice continues to be true for decades to come…Together, we are building a legacy of support and care for our deserving community for generations to come!”

The purpose of the Helen Zebarth Legacy Society is to recognize and celebrate individuals who have made legacy gifts to Blue Ridge Hospice, including bequests, and other planned gifts including donations of stock, retirement assets, artwork, or real estate. The Society honors the foresight and generosity of these individuals, who are helping to ensure that hospice and bereavement services will be available to all for generations in the future.

For those interested in learning about the Helen Zebarth Legacy Society, please refer to our planned giving pages at brhospice.org/legacy. Or please contact Dawn Draayer, Director of Philanthropy, at ddraayer@blueridgehospice.org or 540-431-8335.

About Blue Ridge Hospice

Blue Ridge Hospice is a community-based, not-for-profit serious illness and end-of-life care provider that has been serving friends and neighbors across the northern Shenandoah Valley and northwestern Virginia since 1981. With a mission of “brightening life’s journey with quality and compassionate care for all whom we are privileged to serve,” Blue Ridge Hospice serves the counties of Frederick, Clarke, Fauquier, Loudoun, Page, Rappahannock, Shenandoah, and Warren. Accredited by The Joint Commission, Blue Ridge Hospice consistently exceeds the national averages for quality as reported on Medicare’s Hospice Compare website. To learn more about Blue Ridge Hospice call 540-313-9200.