Rev. Mark Craig, April Box Chamberlain and patron party host Jason Garrett: Methodist Healthcare Foundation

Rev. Mark Craig, April Box Chamberlain and Jason Garrett at a party Garrett hosted to honor Methodist Healthcare donors: Methodist Healthcare Foundation

Methodist Health System Foundation presented the 2013 Robert S. Folsom Leadership Award to community advocate and retired Senior Minister of Highland Park United Methodist Church (HPUMC) Rev Mark Craig on Sept. 24 at the Hilton Anatole Hotel’s Grand Ballroom.

Established in 2005, the award recognizes individuals whose demonstrated commitment and excellence in community leadership emulate the achievements of former Dallas Mayor Robert S. Folsom.

Rev. Craig played a significant role in the fundraising effort that led to the $4.5 million renovation of historic St. Paul United Methodist Church in the Arts District. Highland Park UMC’s recent renovation of Munger Place Church has resulted in a vibrant new worship community in East Dallas. Rev. Craig has also helped to build an orphanage in Costa Rica and an expansive special needs program at HPUMC.

Preston Hollow resident and Methodist Health System Foundation President and CEO April Box Chamberlain says, “Mark’s compassionate leadership and innovative approach have had a far reaching and real impact on the Dallas community. He embodies the Folsom Leadership Award, and we are honored to celebrate his achievements.”

The Folsom event is one of Dallas’s largest fundraising events, and has raised more than $8 million over the past eight years to benefit Methodist Health System’s programs. Proceeds from the 2013 Folsom event benefitted the Charles A. Sammons Trauma and Critical Care Tower at Methodist Dallas Medical Center. The 248,000-square-foot trauma and critical care center will include 58 new emergency rooms, six trauma suites, eight surgical suites, and a 36-bed critical care unit.

Methodist Dallas expansion and improvements are scheduled to be completed in summer 2014.