This year, Waupaca Foundry was the exclusive presenting sponsor for the 13th annual Light Up The Night for hospice fundraising event hosted by the ThedaCare Foundation in Waupaca, Wisconsin.

The event raised funds and awareness for end-of-life hospice care in the community.

"Waupaca Foundry has generously supported the Light Up The Night event since its inception in 2006 and has been a key player in making the event a reality each year. Beyond the workplace, ThedaCare has a role to play in the vitality of employees and families in our community. The support of sponsors and community members ensure that loved ones are cared for beyond expectation," said Holly Rutter, regional development coordinator of special events for ThedaCare.

The event took place on August 14 at Par4 Resort in Waupaca and included dinner, guest speakers and a luminary release in recognition of loved ones lost.

Kirk Kallio, director of human resources at Waupaca Foundry, was one of the guest speakers and delivered this year's welcome address. Kallio personally knows the positive impact end-of-life hospice care can have on families during a painful time. Last year, Kallio's mother passed away from pancreatic cancer. Prior, he relied heavily on in-home hospice to provide the best care for his mother and the personal support his family needed.

"My greatest fear is fear of unknown. With the help of hospice, I was better prepared for the journey of watching a loved one go through the end of life stages," Kallio said.

Over $23,000 were raised from surrounding businesses and members of the community. All proceeds raised go to support end-of-life care for patients in hospice and additional areas in need at ThedaCare Medical Center in Waupaca.

"I am very proud that my employer, Waupaca Foundry was the presenting sponsor. This shows how important it is to Waupaca Foundry to take on the responsibility to support the community we are in and proves the commitment they have to their employees and families," Kallio said.