YOUR BUSINESS AUTHORITY
Springfield, MO
YOUR BUSINESS AUTHORITY
Springfield, MO
Dr. Robert Carolla knew immediately that Anjanette LaBellarte was the person to lead Hospice Foundation of the Ozarks Inc.
“When Anjanette interviewed for the executive director position, I was impressed with her understanding of the hospice concept as well as her knowledge of HFO itself,” says Carolla, a retired oncologist and HFO board member. “We knew that she was the right person for the job. We were not surprised, then, when her performance exceeded our expectations.”
He says LaBellarte is the reason HFO has gained solid footing since she joined the organization in 2022. HFO supports area hospices through grants and educational programs.
“Before Anjanette came on board, there was no clear direction for the future,” he says. “Anjanette quickly realized the potential of HFO. She determined that additional board members could elevate the professionalism and effectiveness of the organization. We now have a 12-member board [that] has become a unified force committed to HFO.”
LaBellarte has spearheaded several firsts for HFO that have raised the organization’s profile, from a relocation and a marketing plan that included the nonprofit’s first commercial to a rebranding with a new logo, website and mission statement.
“I spearheaded the move to a new location that is more accommodating for the elderly and handicapped. This move not only improved physical access but also provided a more welcoming environment for our clients and their families,” LaBellarte says. “I developed a strategic marketing plan for HFO’s 25th anniversary. ... Under my leadership, HFO underwent a comprehensive rebranding process ... [that] has revitalized our image and increased our engagement with the public.”
LaBellarte engages with hospitals, civic organizations and area chambers of commerce to educate about HFO and the importance of end-of-life planning. She was instrumental in planning HFO’s first End-of-Life Care Summit with partners CoxHealth, Mercy Springfield Communities and Citizens Memorial Hospital. The event is slated for March 2025.
LaBellarte’s civic involvement includes the Association for Women in Communication, the American Academy of Hospice and Palliative Medicine and the Association of Fundraising Professionals Ozarks Region Chapter, which recognized HFO as the Philanthropic Foundation of the Year in 2023. Also last year, LaBellarte was chosen for Missouri Hospice & Palliative Care Association’s Heart of Hospice Visionary Award.
“My extensive involvement in community organizations and professional groups highlights my commitment to fostering connections and driving positive change.” LaBellarte says. “I am dedicated to building strong relationships and leveraging these connections to benefit HFO and the community.”
Bambinos Cafe is getting a refresh. The goal of the project is to expand the parking lot, dining areas and kitchen of the Phelps Grove neighborhood eatery.