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On Monday, June 22, UPMC Washington marked the official launch of its therapy dog program for employees and patients with a celebration for ‘Savior’ the therapy dog’s first birthday.

The event also introduced the Washington Greene Health Foundation — formerly the Washington Health System Foundation — and its expanded scope.

Held in the UPMC Washington Community Room, the celebration brought together hospital leadership, team members and community supporters. The event also served as the kickoff for the organization’s employee giving campaign benefiting the Washington Greene Health Foundation.

Savior, who comes to work with his handler, Jennifer Kirschler, senior associate counsel and vice president, UPMC Health Services, has become a familiar presence throughout the hospital. Professionally trained by VetPets of Southwestern Pennsylvania, Savior regularly visits employees, patients and visitors, offering comfort and emotional support during stressful or uncertain moments.

While therapy dogs are often associated with patient care, Savior’s role also reflects UPMC’s broader commitment to supporting its workforce. Employees facing difficult or emotionally taxing situations can turn to him for a calming, supportive presence, part of a growing focus on employee well-being.

The therapy dog program was made possible through the generosity of local donors, including Mike and Tera Lauderbaugh and an anonymous contributor. Their support helped bring Savior to UPMC Washington and highlights a shared investment in enhancing the experience of both patients and the team members who care for them.

The program is one of several initiatives supported by the Washington Greene Health Foundation, which formally introduced its new name and expanded mission during the event. Formerly the Washington Health System Foundation, the organization has served the region since 1992, supporting health care through philanthropy and community investment.

Following the 2024 affiliation between Washington Health System and UPMC, the foundation recently transitioned to the Washington Greene Health Foundation to better reflect its broader geographic reach and evolving role. It is now a public charity, expanding its ability to support both hospital-based care and community health initiatives.

Today, the Washington Greene Health Foundation continues to support UPMC Washington and UPMC Greene by funding equipment, programs and patient care initiatives. It also invests in community-based nonprofit organizations across Washington and Greene counties, focusing on access to care, clinical excellence, workforce development and community health.

While the foundation’s name has evolved, its mission remains unchanged: to improve health and enhance quality of life by engaging communities and supporting meaningful partnerships and programs.

The celebration highlighted how philanthropy, innovation and compassion continue to shape the future of health care in the region, supporting both patients and the team members who serve them. (Photo Credits – UPMC)

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