The Going Beyond Assistance Fund: Supporting All Communities

Life is unpredictable. Illness, natural disasters, and family emergencies can strike without warning, and when they do, having a supportive community makes all the difference. At Healthcare Services Group (HCSG), we know that when our people are cared for, they’re empowered to continue our mission of serving resident and client communities with compassion and excellence. One major way we give that support to our employees is through the Going Beyond Assistance Fund (GBAF).

What is the GBAF?

Officially recognized as a 501(c)(3) in July 2021, the GBAF, led by HCSG volunteers Jason Bundick, Chief Compliance Officer and General Counsel, Derya Warner, Senior Vice President of Finance & Strategic Sourcing, and Kim Perillo, Executive Assistant, is a tangible expression of our belief that when we care for each other, we can better care for those we serve. Born from a long-standing desire to help HCSG employees in crisis, the GBAF ensures no team member faces a difficult time alone.

The idea for the GBAF was sparked after years of receiving messages about employees facing unexpected hardships. It was a collective realization that more needed to be done, and HCSG leaders were united in their decision to establish the GBAF.

Derya shared, “We have always wanted to give back and support our HCSG family. After seeing so many employees in crisis, it became clear we needed a permanent resource to aid those in need. The GBAF has allowed us to create a structure that reaches our entire community. It is an honor to serve this foundation and our people.”

How the GBAF Works

The GBAF provides tax-free grants of up to $2,500 to current HCSG employees or their immediate family members experiencing hardship. Grants given to employees are not loans and do not need to be repaid.

Eligible hardships or disasters include, but are not limited to:

• Illness, injury, or medical emergencies
• Natural disasters (flood, fire, hurricane, etc.)
• Loss of home or essential utilities
• Death of a close family member
• Victims of a violent crime or domestic abuse
• Financial hardship due to non-routine, unforeseen events

The online application process is confidential and includes a review of submitted documentation and a personal conversation to better understand the situation. A committee of nine dedicated HCSG employees reviews each application with compassion and care to determine a grant amount based on collective input. Kim noted, “One of the great things about having nine committee members is that each application is viewed with several different perspectives. Every decision is made with empathy and the mindset of how we can best help.”

Identifying Needs, Inspiring Support

While every GBAF grant begins with an employee’s application, many are identified with the help of HCSG’s operations team, who work closely with employees daily and recognize when someone may be silently struggling. These leaders often serve as the first line of support, spotting signs of hardship and encouraging team members to apply for assistance through the GBAF.

As they help identify needs, HCSG team members nationwide are among the first to step up and give. Whether volunteering their time or rallying donations through creative fundraisers, they go beyond their daily responsibilities to ensure the GBAF remains a strong, active resource. It’s this grassroots generosity, combined with operational insight, that makes the GBAF not only sustainable but personal. It’s a fund built by employees, for employees, guided by the same people who serve our residents every day.

Real Impact, Real Stories

Since the fund’s online inception, the GBAF has distributed 725 grants to employees and their families, totaling $735,000. One HCSG Floor Tech applied for a grant when their power was disconnected due to an emergency. They shared, “My family and I had been without power for weeks, and with the aid we received, our power was turned back on. The GBAF is truly a blessing.”

Another HCSG employee, a Cook in Kentucky, received a grant to rebuild their home due to disastrous flooding (pictured below). They expressed, “Thank you so much. This means the world—I could cry.”

Supporting the GBAF

The GBAF is funded by voluntary donations, primarily from HCSG employees as well as external partnerships. Donations can be accepted through one-time donations, payroll deductions, and participation in fundraising events. Every dollar helps a fellow employee in crisis. Kim emphasized, “By growing our donor community, we ensure that more hands are ready to lift others when crisis arises. Together, we can continue building a culture of compassion.”

Looking Ahead

The GBAF is here to ensure that every HCSG employee, no matter where they are, knows they are never alone in times of need. Kim expressed, “It’s been an honor to serve with the GBAF. We want every employee to know that this fund exists. That in their most difficult moments, we are here, ready to support them in any way possible.”

Whether you are in a position of needing support or are ready to give, you are a vital part of this mission. Visit hcsgcorp.gbaf to learn more.

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