Freeman Regional Foundation Seeks Historical Photos for 2026 Gala Celebrating Nearly 75 Years of Local Healthcare

Freeman, S.D. - As Freeman Regional Health Services (FRHS) prepares for the 15th Annual FRHS Foundation Gala on January 24, 2026, the organization is inviting community members to help tell the story of healthcare in the Freeman region.

"We want to honor the people, the stories, and the moments that shaped healthcare in our community," said Tabitha Schoenwald, FRHS Foundation Director. "The community played an essential role in establishing both the hospital and the Salem Mennonite Home, and their photos will help us bring this history to life."

The 2026 gala will highlight the nearly 75-year history of the Freeman Community Hospital, founded through extraordinary community support, volunteerism, and generosity. The event will also honor the longstanding legacy of Freeman Regional Assisted Living (formerly Salem Mennonite Home), which has provided compassionate care in the region for more than 77 years.

To help showcase and preserve this shared history, FRHS is requesting historic photos, documents, and memorabilia from current and former employees, families, and community members. These items will be featured in a special video and event display during the gala.

"Healthcare in Freeman has always been a community effort," said Courtney Unruh, FRHS CEO. "As we honor nearly 75 years of our hospital and the decades of service provided through the Salem Mennonite Home, we invite everyone to help us preserve this history."

Freeman Regional is seeking items that may include:

• Early hospital or Salem Home photos
• Employee portraits or department photos
• Construction or renovation images
• Community fundraising or volunteer events
• Long-term care memories
• Any historical snapshots connected to local healthcare

How to Submit Items

Community members may email digital photos or drop off printed photos to be scanned. All originals will be handled with care and promptly returned.

Deadline for submissions: Wednesday, December 31, 2025

Items may be submitted to:
Tabitha Schoenwald
510 E 8^th Street, Freeman
605-925-4000
[email protected]