Our Story

The WakeMed Foundation story began in 1994 with a conversation among a small group of individuals — united by a common aspiration, profound sense of purpose and a shared philanthropic road map — in support of WakeMed’s community-minded mission.  

Over time, more people joined the conversation. These highly motivated volunteers, with a passion to serve and a commitment to transformative care, helped create a pathway to build healing environments, enhance access to care, foster new and innovative programs and cultivate skilled caregivers. There ultimate goal was to meet the diverse health care needs of our patients.

While our early years are marked by impressive brick-and-mortar achievements, such as the WakeMed Children’s Hospital, WakeMed Women’s Pavilion & Birthplace, Neonatal Intensive Care and the expansion of our Rehabilitation Hospital, it was just the beginning of what passionate people — including dedicated partners, expert clinicians and skilled employees — would achieve through collaborative efforts.

Year upon year, philanthropic funds are invested throughout the WakeMed health system — all in support of continuously improving patient care and building a healthier community.