Guests attending Hospice of Queen Anne’s 8th Annual Gala may have been masked but there is no secret about the success of this year’s event that raised $60,000 and attracted more than 220 guests to Hunters Oak in Queenstown, the highest attendance in the event’s history.

“The fact that we raised $60,000 is significant for the size of our organization, but what’s more amazing is we exceeded last year’s total raised by 35 percent,” said Gala Committee Chair Kathy Deoudes.

One of the evening’s highlights was the recognition of the Philanthropist of the Year, an award acknowledging the charitable efforts of an individual or group benefiting Hospice of Queen Anne’s.

“What an honor it is to recognize The Duffey Family for their continued generosity and support benefiting the patients and families we serve,” said Executive Director Heather Guerieri. “They truly exemplify the mission, vision and values of Hospice of Queen Anne’s.”

Development Officer Kenda Leager added, “We would like to thank our sponsors, donors, friends and volunteers who supported the 2011 Hospice Gala as well as all those who support us in other ways throughout the year.”

Because of generous community support, Hospice of Queen Anne’s continues to provide the highest quality, professional and compassionate care for patients with advancing life-limiting illnesses and assistance for their families during and after their loved one has died. Care is given based solely on need, regardless of a person’s ability to pay. Continued community support has made it possible for Hospice of Queen Anne’s to offset unfunded room and board expenses in the Residential Hospice Center, which amounted to $201,192 in 2010.

For information about sponsoring an event , contact Kenda Leager at 443-262-4106 or visit the website at www.hospiceofqueenannes.org.