Job cuts and the rising cost of healthcare have caused many to reprioritize their health needs.
While those in that predicament are looking for effective yet affordable options, one such entity has always stood by that model – Planned Parenthood.
Planned Parenthood began helping women with reproductive needs in the early 1900s. The organization has undergone many transformations over the years and now helps men and women receive preventive healthcare.
That includes annual exams, sexually transmitted disease management, cancer screenings, prevention, birth control and all areas of reproductive health.
“Especially during these times, our services are more needed. We primarily serve the underserved population, so people who have limited insurance or no insurance. Our prices are generally much lower than a doctor’s office,” said Chrystal Struben-Hall, vice president of development and communications for Planned Parenthood of Indiana.
Additionally, Planned Parenthood offers in-house health insurance coverage. In Indianapolis there are six locations in addition to the 28 centers across the state.
Planned Parenthood of Indiana is the fifth largest Planned Parenthood affiliate, provides nearly 1,000 Pap tests every week and aids the estimated 800,000 Hoosiers that don’t have health insurance and can’t afford basic health services. In 2008 there was a one percent increase in men coming to centers for care.
Planned Parenthood is a non-profit and has private funds that are accessible if patients simply cannot afford the services. The majority of the organization’s income comes from patient fees, but they also procure government funding and grants.
To further their mission of providing comprehensive reproductive health care and educating honestly and accurately, Planned Parenthood is hosting its sixth annual fundraiser, titled Gathering of Goddesses and Gods. The event will be held Saturday, April 18 at the Westin Hotel, 50 S. Capitol Ave.
Planned Parenthood of Indiana states attendees of the Gathering of Goddesses and Gods can expect a full night of fun with wining, dining, dancing, pampering as well as live and silent auctions.
The evening begins with free massages, psychic readings and more while attendees enjoy beverages and hors d’oeuvres in a setting infused with Greek décor and music.
Later, dinner is served during the charity auction. Weekend getaways, spa packages and one-of-a-kind experiences are available for bidding. The night wraps up with dancing and additional enjoyment.
Jeff Smulyan, CEO of Emmis Communications along with his wife Heather have proudly joined forces with Planned Parenthood of Indiana and are honorary chairs of the Gathering of Goddesses and Gods event.
“It’s a fun evening and an important cause and I think a lot of people recognize how important this cause is. Some people have made it a target and we felt it was important to stand up for the fact that (Planned Parenthood) provides screenings, gynecological exams and treatment,” said Smulyan.
Struben-Hall states Planned Parenthood of Indiana’s goal is to generate $100,000 in proceeds and awareness. Funds raised from the event will go towards the health fund, which helps women and men access care for preventive care, exams, contraceptive supplies, testing and treatment of STDs, and treatment of abnormal cells that lead to cancer among others.
Planned Parenthood stands behind its goal to provide Hoosiers with an affordable option for preventive healthcare and are very excited about the upcoming event.
Individual tickets for the event are $130 and VIP tickets are $200. Corporate sponsorships and tables are also available.
For more information, call (317) 637-4350 or visit www.ppin.org.
