National Speakers Luncheon raises critical funds to support women’s health at CHRISTUS

The Friends of CHRISTUS Santa Rosa Foundation (Friends Foundation) held its thirteenth annual National Speakers Luncheon to honor the Kowalski family with the Beacon Award for their exceptional and generous service to the community. The event also featured ABC New Veteran John Quiñones as the keynote speaker.

The Beacon Award is presented to individuals who actively participate in charitable and civic activities in our community. The Friends Foundation carefully chooses the Beacon Award recipient from a select group of candidates based on professional endeavors, civic commitment, and community involvement.

This year, the Beacon Award was presented to the Kowalski family. For more than 77 years, the Kowalski family and the RK Group has represented a legacy of exceptional culinary and integrated hospitality services. Originating in San Antonio, Texas, it currently operates a diverse range of activities both nationwide and around the world. The RK Group is renowned for its innovation and commitment to delivering the highest standards of excellence, which also uniquely represents the efforts of a united family, now four generations strong, each contributing to the company’s ongoing commitment to outstanding service.

The keynote speaker for this year’s event was John Quiñones, ABC New Veteran, and creator and host of “What Would You Do?” Known for truly connecting with audiences and leaving them uplifted and inspired, Quiñones delivered a powerful message of believing in one’s self, never giving up and always, always doing the right thing.

Proceeds from the luncheon benefit programs and services at CHRISTUS Santa Rosa Hospitals with a focus on unfunded mammograms offered via their Mobile Mammography Unit (MMU). The MMU provides screening services, using innovative and top-notch technology along with access to CHRISTUS Santa Rosa Health System’s integrated care if further diagnostics or treatment are needed. Through philanthropic support, the MMU brings mammograms to underserved areas of our community in Bexar and surrounding counties.