Bob and Mary Curran might not spend all of their time in the Finger Lakes, but no matter where they are, the two make sure to have a full-time impact.
The couple, who celebrated their 60th anniversary in August, began wintering in Naples, Florida, shortly after Bob retired from Rochester Telephone Co. and Mary retired from a career in customer service.
Although they’ve maintained a house overlooking Canandaigua Lake, enjoying it each May through October, the original plan was to ultimately make Florida their year-round home. Recently, however, they had a change of heart.
Perhaps it’s because Mary is a Brighton native, and Pittsford is where they raised their eight children, or because so many members of their family still live in the area.
No matter the reason, spending more time on Canandaigua Lake is bringing its share of changes, including where the Currans want to direct their contributions. Having been supporters of Thompson Health’s Annual Fund, Breast Imaging Center and Cardiac Rehabilitation Program, they recently decided to make a bigger commitment to the health system. They became members of the George Eastman Circle and designated Thompson as the beneficiary of their five-year pledge.
Dale Hunt, chairman of the F.F. Thompson Foundation Board of Directors, says Annual Fund gifts made through the George Eastman Circle provide unrestricted, current-use resources, giving Thompson the flexibility to respond quickly to new opportunities and unexpected needs.
“Whether there is an imminent need for new, life-saving equipment or facility renovations to make room for additional healthcare services, gifts made through the George Eastman Circle help Thompson remain an exceptional health system,” he says.
The Currans know a thing or two about health systems — Bob volunteered for 17 years at their local hospital in Florida.
“Thankfully, we’re healthy, but every time we’ve needed Thompson, it’s been a good, positive experience,” Bob Curran says. “We’ve been very pleased with that.”
Members of St. Mary’s Church and the Canandaigua Country Club, the Currans enjoy supporting the church, volunteer fire department and other emergency services, as well as Thompson.
“We’re strong believers in helping all the community services wherever we are,” Bob says.
As far as their contributions through the George Eastman Circle are concerned, the Currans’ hope is simply for Thompson to use the funds wherever the need is greatest.
“We’re pleased to be able to do it,” Bob says. “We just think it’s a great facility.”
