As ironic as it sounds, what was once considered “the country hospital” prior to its 1900 annexation into the city is now commemorating its 150th anniversary in an unmistakably urban setting.

Under the spiritual guidance and visionary leadership of the Poor Handmaids of Jesus Christ, St. Joseph Hospital opened May 4, 1869, in what was before that the 65-room Rockhill Hotel.

To celebrate the occasion, and to kick off a year of community service projects inspired by a 150+ theme, hospital and network leaders, employees, neighbors and other special VIPs will gather Saturday in the courtyard from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. for a festive block party. Guests will enjoy live music from Dr. Tom Kintanar’s band, Not My Kids, six food trucks and a kids corner featuring units from the Fort Wayne Fire Department and Lutheran Ground.

This is just the first of several activities planned during 2019 to observe the hospital’s important role in shaping local healthcare. Much of that emphasis will focus on giving back. Upcoming community involvement opportunities include the collection of 150+ pounds of food for Community Harvest Food Bank in May and 150+ pints of blood for the American Red Cross in June.

Anyone who would like to participate in these and other initiatives can visit StJoeHospital.com for a list of all projects and additional information.