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Univ. Of Colorado Hospital Gala Enters 2nd Year

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Feb 6, 2009 7:01 am US/Mountain

Univ. Of Colorado Hospital Gala Enters 2nd Year

Coors, Magness Blake Beat Recession With Unique Fundraising Effort

Written by Brooke Wagner

Reporting
Brooke Wagner
DENVER (CBS4) ― In this economy, it's hard for many of us to think about giving when we're worried about our own financial realities.

Leaders at University of Colorado Hospital will tell you that illness doesn't take a break for recession.

"The needs of the community aren't going to change just because we've got hard economic times," said Pete Coors, Chairman of the University of Colorado Hospital Foundation.

Coors said he had a long-time dream of a charity event that would welcome every age group and be filled with everything from dancing to clowns.

Now in its second year, "Hearts of All Ages," benefiting the UCH neonatal intensive care unit, as well as its geriatric unit, is scheduled for Valentine's Day.

Coors and fellow philanthropist Sharon Magness Blake are chairs of the gala.

"When you do good for someone else, you kind of forget your own problems. I'd like to see people come and have a good time -- forget the bad news," said Magness Blake. "We kept the prices lower than a lot of events because it is a family event. One of the things that touched my heart last year was to see a mom and dad dancing with both of their children."

"You don't have to have a babysitter, you don't have to have an expensive meal," said Coors. "It's a wonderful night to have out with your family just to share the joy of knowing you're having a good time and doing some good for the community."

A kickoff for the event was held last September, and Hearts of All Ages is already ahead of its fundraising goals. Coors said that's because, unlike many galas, it's an opportunity for grandchildren and grandparents alike to give back and spend time together.

"Dancing with my grandkids and seeing some of my friends with their kids and grandkids was very special (last year)," said Coors. "This is a dream come true for me."

Coors pointed out the common assumption that UCH is funded by the Univeristy of Colorado. It's actually an independent entity. Without it, many patients -- young and old -- could fall through the cracks, particularly in tough times.

"We're looking at babies who are born who don't weigh as much as a can of beer. This is pretty extraordinary what's going on here to give them an opportunity to have a full life," said Coors.

"If you have your health, you do, in fact, have everything. So you don't have to give money, you can just give a meal, or babysit. Everyone can do something," said Magness Blake. "The economy, of course, is going to affect the non-profits, but the non-profits have a bigger need to fill. So I think we all have to step back and say, it's a time to step forward and help people as much as we can."

Hearts of All Ages will be held Feb. 14 at Invesco Field at Mile High.

Tickets are available at several levels, including those for children. Broncos mascot Thunder will make an appearance, along with clowns and magicians. Call 720-848-7818 for more information.

(© MMIX CBS Television Stations, Inc. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.)

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