Amid the revelry of Bourbon Street, New Orleans cuisine, and a Samba line, the We Care Foundation of Indian River kicked off its 6th Anniversary Mardi Gras Celebration at Oak Harbor Country Club.

Over 250 guests attended We Care’s signature fundraising event on February 28th, enjoying a culinary tour of New Orleans, dancing to music from DJ Louis G, stilt walkers, a roving magician, and the amazing Phoebe’s Samba Team. Adding to the excitement of the evening was a casino, a raffle, a 50/50 drawing, and a chance to win a week’s stay in the Florida Keys

Founded in 1991 as a cooperative venture between the Indian River County Medical Society, the IRC Health Department, and the IRC Hospital District, the We Care Program coordinates free specialty physician services for uninsured indigent patients in Indian River County.  More than 130 volunteer doctors and other medical professionals donate care to thousands of qualified Indian River County residents each year.  These donated services are valued at approximately $1.4 million annually. 

Dr. Dennis Saver, founder of the We Care Program 29 years ago, started the party as he led in the samba line of dancers and drummers, who then entertained the guests.  Following their performance Saver addressed the Mardi Gras crowd.

“During the past 29 years it has truly taken a village to help the thousands of We Care patients,” Saver said. “However, none of it would have been possible without the dedication of the 130 We Care volunteer doctors and other medical professionals who annually give the gift of service.”  

He concluded his remarks by thanking the Mardi Gras Krewe, headed by co-chairs Maria Zambigadis and Brian Hartman, and all guests and sponsors for their continued support and dedication to the We Care Program.

Mardi Gras ticket sales, donations, raffle sales and sponsorships, raise funds for the We Care Program. Top sponsors and donors of the celebration included The Bernard Egan Foundation, Cleveland Clinic Indian River Hospital, Palm Garden of Vero Beach, Deborah A. Hawkins, Drs. Dennis and Jeannie Saver, and Dr. Michaela Scott.  

All proceeds from the evening return directly to the Indian River County community to help meet We Care program non-physician ancillary medical or medically related needs for We Care patients.  

Donate to our Cause

Charitable contributions to the We Care Foundation of Indian River are used to supply We Care patients with prescription medications, medical equipment, post-surgical medical supplies, transportation for medical appointments and other needs.  The We Care Foundation also provides financial support to the We Care Clinic.

Dedicated Volunteer Physicians provided more than $1 Million in vital services for We Care patients annually. However, there remain medical needs beyond physician services which are not currently funded.  This is where the We Care Foundation of Indian River can make a significant difference – but we need YOUR help!

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