Category Archives: Featured Articles

Kitchell and local community leaders honor Bob and Paula Hardison with legacy gift in their name

PHOENIX (Nov. 4, 2011) – The Wellness Community – Arizona treated guests at its annual Porch Party to a big announcement in honor of its former executive director, and issued an ongoing challenge to the community to maintain the momentum of giving hope to those dealing with cancer.

The “Hardison Hope Fund,” part of the organization’s Voices of Hope campaign, has accumulated a total of $100,000 in the name of Bob and Paula Hardison. The fund kicked off with an initial $25,000 lead contribution from Kitchell.

”Paula and Bob Hardison have given immense amounts of time, talent and treasure to The Wellness Community – Arizona, leading the organization to where it is today as a respected community resource delivering support to people living with cancer,” said Voices of Hope campaign chair Juanita Francis. “The Hardisons have been an integral part of the growth of the organization from its very early days, and we’re glad to honor them with this legacy that will help carry out the mission of the organization we all love.”

The Voices of Hope campaign assists the organization in maintaining financial stability. The Hardison Hope Fund is one of many gifts that the organization hopes will prompt others to continue the mission of providing ongoing support for cancer patients and their families.

“The mission of the Wellness Community –Arizona is an important one, and we’re pleased to be able to honor the work that Paula and Bob have contributed to this organization,” said Kitchell President and CEO Jim Swanson.

Kitchell’s Jay Prechel wins Diamondbacks World Series ring

He might not have hit the Series winning blooper, but Kitchell’s Senior Estimator Jay Prechel can still hold up his hand and display a “bling-bling” 2001 Arizona Diamondbacks World Series Players ring. He is the only non-player to own one.

Jay bought raffle tickets for the chance to win the World Series Players ring from the 2001 championship, and luck was on his side! He was presented the ring at the pre-game celebration on Chase Field this past Saturday night, which took place during the 10-year World Championship anniversary/reunion weekend.

On the field, Jay and his brother (Estimating Manager Tim Prechel) were able to rub shoulders with some of the players from the 2001 World Championship team. Jay was presented an authentic personalized game jersey, twelve tickets for family and friends to attend the game and a replica ring, because the actual ring is currently being cast by the jeweler, complete with his last name.

“Since Tim is just as big a Diamondbacks fan as I am (we both were lucky enough to attend Game 7 of the 2001 World Series), it was a thrill that he could be on the field with me on such a momentous occasion. The Diamondbacks have had such an incredible year, exactly a decade after winning the World Championship. Perhaps it was good luck that CEM held our mid-year meeting at the Chase Field, which included attendance to a day game.” Jay said.

All of the proceeds from the raffle benefit the Arizona Diamondbacks Foundation, which helps non-profit organizations and causes that support “everyday heroes” in the community.

Jay is truly the luckiest Diamondback fan alive – next time you see him ask him to hold the ring, as he plans to share his experience by sharing the ring with others.