Originally published by YOUR Williamson —

Many threads shape the fabric of a community. In Williamson County, that tapestry is defined by its rich history, generous spirit and deep-rooted commitment to one another. 

But Leigh Williams, executive director of the Williamson Health Foundation, said there is one vital strand that should not be overlooked—quality healthcare. The Foundation is the philanthropic arm of Williamson Health, a regional health system that has called Williamson County home since 1958.

“The generosity of our community allows Williamson Health to continue to provide top-tier care in world-class facilities for every patient across Williamson County,” she said. Your gifts, whatever the amount, can help support the Foundation Annual Fund or the organization’s “More For You. Close To Home.” capital campaign.

Donations to the Annual Fund have allowed the Foundation to provide new recliners in patient rooms, swaddles for NICU babies, a 3D mammography machine, athletic trainers in local high schools, scholarships to area healthcare students and equipment for cardiac rehab—among many other patient needs.

The Foundation is also helping to fund a significant capital campaign. This $30 million campaign supports the historic $200 million renovation and expansion of Williamson Medical Center, the flagship acute hospital of Williamson Health.

The expansion broke ground in 2022 and wraps up this fall with the completion of a new NICU with nine private bays. The largest part of the project—the Boyer-Bryan West Tower, named for hospital supporters Luke and Caroline (Boyer) Bryan and The Brett Boyer Foundation—opened in June 2024.

The capital campaign is supporting Williamson Health in its commitment to continue serving the community’s healthcare needs long into the future, said Williams.

“Philanthropic support has helped make the completion of the Boyer-Bryan West Tower possible, and now our focus is on the renovation of the main hospital,” she said. “This is a project for the community by the community—and your continued generosity will help it move forward.” 

Renovation of the existing hospital, portions of which date to its August 1986 opening, will begin in 2025, and continue floor-by-floor as fundraising continues.

There are other meaningful ways the community can support the Foundation’s mission. The Williamson Health Gift Shop benefits patient care services and is proudly managed by Foundation volunteers, open Mondays through Thursdays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Fridays from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

“Our Gift Shop is truly a fun, bright place in our Main Lobby where caregivers, our employees or anyone from the community can buy gifts for any occasion including unique products from local vendors,” she said.

Additionally, the Inaugural Dr. Craig Ferrell Memorial Clay Shoot was held this past spring, and the Williamson Health Champions Classic is a beloved tradition that recently marked its 29th annual golf tournament. Next up is the masquerade-themed Skeleton Gala, hosted by Bone and Joint Institute of Tennessee, on Oct. 26 at The Factory at Franklin.

Proceeds from these three Foundation events support Williamson Health’s athletic training program and scholarships for students pursuing health sciences degrees.

The athletic training program, which Williamson Health provides free of charge to local student-athletes, saves local schools $825,000 thanks to donors’ support of the regional health system. Williamson Health certified athletic trainers work in tandem with dedicated Bone and Joint Institute physicians and physical therapists to care for Williamson County student-athletes throughout the school year.

“Anyone can invest in the next chapter of healthcare in Williamson County and the surrounding region,” said Williams. “We love to partner with individuals, corporations, foundations and more to bring unparalleled quality care to every current and future member of our community.”

To invest in one of the exceptional efforts offered by the Williamson Health Foundation or to learn more, visit the “Support” section on WilliamsonHealth.org. To purchase tickets to the Skeleton Gala, visit BoneandJointTN.org/Foundation. Some gifts to the Foundation may qualify as tax deductible. Please consult your tax advisor.