How You Can Help
Volunteer Endowment for Patient Support (VEPS)
A Growing Endowment
The Volunteer Endowment for Patient Support (VEPS) was established by volunteers to benefit M. D. Anderson patients. Founded in 1991, VEPS grew out of a vision to raise funds to improve the quality of life of patients and their families. In 2007, VEPS passed the $2 million mark and continues to grow through individual contributions.
The VEPS Disbursement Committee equitably distributes funds originating from the accrued interest of the Volunteer Endowment for Patient Support to meet the social, emotional, comfort, informational and recreational needs of patients at M. D. Anderson Cancer Center. To date, $1,000,000 has been disbursed to fulfill unmet needs of our patients. The following are just a few of the patient programs that have been funded:
- Educational videos and materials
- Translation of materials into other languages
- Emergency Room patient amenity packets
- Aquariums for clinic waiting areas
- Patient recognition, support groups and celebrations
- Anderson Network Patient Conference
- Holiday décor and special activities
- Coping with Grief Booklet
- Protective helmets for brain surgery patients
- Recreational events for patients and their families
- Patient amenities
- Pagers for patients waiting for clinic appointments
- Tranquility Cart with selection of artwork for patients in palliative care
By supporting VEPS, you help the Department of Volunteer Services at M. D. Anderson continue to fund and provide these important programs to benefit our patients and their families throughout the cancer center. Donations to VEPS make a vital, positive difference in countless lives. For information on how to contribute to VEPS, call 713-792-7180.
The annual VEPS luncheon is the main fundraising activity for the endowment. The 2010 luncheon is scheduled for March 24th at the River Oaks Country Club. Chairman: Betty and John Clarke, Nancy and Terry Bertin
For more information about VEPS, please call Maggi Suttles at 713-745-0270.