Kirkwood resident Brad Burns, owner of Burns Holdings has an ownership interest in Meramec Hardscapes, Meramec Pools, Wayne Contracting, Vizex, Arch City Group, and City Seafood, faced a family medical crisis when his son required specialized medical care only available in Maryland. The logistics of planning extended housing in a new city while dealing with doctors and medical decisions was more than daunting. But, for Brad, it was also thought-provoking.
Wondering where families turn for help when they come from far away to receive medical care at one of St. Louis' nationally renowned medical institutions, Brad discovered HavenHouse as he searched for ways to become more involved in the Saint Louis' charitable community. Immediately impressed with the leadership team at HavenHouse, Brad resonated with how engaged and committed they were to the needs of each family. He volunteered to help the organization however they needed him. Today, Brad serves as HavenHouse Board President and has a bold vision for a bright future for the families they serve.
"I consider myself incredibly fortunate that my journey intersected with HavenHouse at the perfect moment," said Brad. "This is a remarkable team committed to its noble mission. I am genuinely enthusiastic about the prospect of contributing, channeling my efforts to not only sustain but elevate the enduring legacy of HavenHouse and honor those who have dedicated themselves to its cause from its very inception."
HavenHouse is more than a temporary living space. The organization acts as a lifeline by opening its doors to families living more than 25 miles from St. Louis. HavenHouse provides lodging, daily meals, and transportation, eliminating troublesome or draining complexities while families navigate healthcare away from home.
Founded in 2005, HavenHouse has grown into a vital force within the medical community, providing services to an average of 4,000 families a year, reaching all fifty states and around the world, from the largest cities to the most rural communities where healthcare access is becoming a dire issue due to hospital closures. Paula Lowery, HavenHouse's Executive Director, shared a heartwarming story about a woman who found the support she needed through HavenHouse as she traveled from Ireland to undergo a rare medical procedure only available in St.Louis.
The organization's revolutionary work of guaranteeing healthcare access for thousands led them to outgrow their original space, prompting a relocation to the DoubleTree by Hilton St. Louis- Westport thanks to a pivotal corporate sponsorship with LHM, a Kirkwood resident, Bob O'Loughlin serves as CEO and Chairman. As HavenHouse Board Chair, Brad Burns is optimistically looking forward to expanding HavenHouse to accommodate even more families and finding a new permanent home for the organization.
HavenHouse is hosting its annual fundraising event, Hopefest, on May 2, 2024, at the DoubleTree- Canopy, and the community is warmly invited to attend. This event is a testament to the ongoing community support and remarkable partnerships that breathe life into the organization's mission. Funds raised during HopeFest will fuel the continuation of HavenHouse's services, ensuring that this organization remains a beacon of hope for those in need by bridging the gap between crisis and comfort and access to healthcare. "Having access to medical care is a basic human right," said Paula Lowery. "HavenHouse St. Louis provides the comfort of home and a community of support for patients and families who travel to St. Louis for medical care."
For more information, visit www.havenhousestl.org
"HavenHouse St. Louis provides the comfort of home and a community of support for patients and families who travel to St. Louis for medical care."