Community Commitment & Philanthropy

Because Willis-Knighton is so successful and has operated with the same CEO for over 50 years, some people think Willis-Knighton is a private business. That’s not the case. In fact, Willis-Knighton is a 501(c)3 not-for-profit corporation operated in the public interest.

There is no corporate stock and no shareholders to receive a profit from Willis-Knighton. The health system is operated by a volunteer board of trustees, people who live and work in the communities Willis-Knighton serves.

Willis-Knighton is local, so revenues are not sent to out-of-state corporate offices. Revenue earned at Willis-Knighton goes two places: (1) into the operations of the health system to improve healthcare for our community and (2) to community organizations for projects that improve the quality of life for our community, with an emphasis on healthcare, public education and humanitarian services.

Although Willis-Knighton is a not-for-profit health system, it does not undertake fundraising campaigns to fund new buildings or purchase new equipment. The health system strives to operate efficiently and demonstrate fiscal responsibility so that it can afford to improve its facilities without soliciting money from the public.

As a not-for-profit organization, Willis-Knighton can accept donations and frequently does receive them from people who wish to offer a special “thanks” to the health system. One example is the Willis-Knighton Hospice of Louisiana Memorial Fund where donations help hospice patients who are unable to afford things that might make the end of their lives more comfortable.

Willis-Knighton Health System takes its responsibility as a not-for-profit health system very seriously. It has adopted a “tithe the bottom line” philosophy of giving, dedicating a minimum of 10 percent of its bottom line for worthy community projects and activities. In recent years, that percentage has exceeded 10 percent.

So when patients select Willis-Knighton, they are making a decision that doesn’t just support their health but supports the health and well-being of the entire community. Each year Willis-Knighton gives back to the community – and at a rate that exceeds that of the United Way, considered in most communities as the standard of giving.

Supporting Our Community

Willis-Knighton Health System is the only locally-owned, locally-operated not-for-profit health system in Shreveport-Bossier. As such we believe it is important to contribute to efforts to improve the quality of life for the people we serve. We do this as part of our “Tithe the Bottom Line” philosophy of giving. Each month we received numerous requests for contributions from many fine organizations and individuals. Obviously, we cannot fund all requests. We have established priorities for giving in order to help us distribute funds.

All requests that observe these guidelines will be reviewed but, regretfully, all cannot be funded. Due to the volume of requests to the health system for funding or sponsorship, we are unable to receive requests in person or by telephone. All requests should be made in writing at least 90 days prior to the time the donation is required.

Willis-Knighton is currently directing its philanthropic focus to healthcare, education and humanitarian services. Funding for athletic or sports events is reserved for Willis-Knighton Sports Medicine clients.

Our Priorities 
Preference is given to projects related to health, education and humanitarian services and to those in communities where a Willis-Knighton facility is located.

Our Guidelines 
We are able to give contributions only to public agencies, schools or to charitable nonprofit groups designated 501(c)3 by the IRS. You must include documentation of your IRS status with your request.

We generally do not approve contributions for

• Individuals
• For-Profit Organizations
• Political Causes or Candidates
• Religious or Fraternal Organizations
• Organizations already receiving our support through united campaigns or drives
• Programs not focused on our service area

Contributions for public schools in Caddo and Bossier parishes are generally not made to individual schools. Instead, this philanthropy is dedicated to the Path to Excellence program which rewards schools for academic improvements. Pathways to Excellence is administered by the Alliance for Education.

Form Provided 
Anyone soliciting contributions or sponsorships must complete a “Contribution Request Form” and return it by mail or fax. Due to the volume of requests we receive, we cannot give responses by telephone or in person. If a request is approved, notification will be sent by mail.