LAKEPORT, Calif. – More than 75 individuals helped raise nearly $15,000 for Hospice Services of Lake County by participating in the third annual Hike for Hospice on June 10. 

Funds help pay for the agency’s grief counseling, family bereavement camps and school-based children’s grief groups offered to Lake County residents.

Hikers traversed 1-, 2-, 3- and 5-mile trails at Highland Springs Park. 

Participants and organizers celebrated together following the hikes with music, refreshments and presentations of awards. 

Musicians Mike Heinz, Randy Hare and Bonnie Blumenthal entertained while participants enjoyed food and beverages provided by Angelina’s Bakery and Expresso, Bruno’s Shop Smart and Mary Fauchald, owner of Alterations by Merre.

Several hikers participated in teams, many in “dazzling and fun” costumes, according to event organizers. The “Sparkle Sisters,” in outfits adorned with rhinestones and other blitz, received the award for best team costume. 

Sutter Lakeside Hospital’s “ER” team, dubbed the “Superstar Team,” raised the most money by a team. With members dressed in scrubs and hospital gowns, the group took second in the team costume category. 

Lake County Supervisor Tina Scott raised the most money by an individual and also received the best costume award for an individual hiker.

“We are extremely grateful to all the hikers and sponsors, as well as our organizers, for their contributions and dedication,” said Corrigan Gommenginger, CHA, chief executive officer of Hospice Services of Lake County.

Hikers also expressed their appreciation for the family-oriented event.

“I spent a wonderful morning enjoying the hike, food, music, and company of like-minded people that chose to make a difference in our community,” said Hospice supporter Ron Barber.  “I love the fact that all the money raised will be put to use in Lake County to fund bereavement programs that are offered free of charge to Lake County residents.”

Many hikers indicated their desire to participate again next year.

Presentation of this year’s Hike for Hospice was made possible by several sponsors. They include platinum sponsor Sutter Health, Sutter Lakeside Hospital; diamond sponsors Jones & Lewis Clear Lake Memorial Chapel, and Lucerne Community Clinic; gold sponsors The EdB Co., JEStrong Financial Network, Michaels Insurance Services, Adventist Health St. Helena Hospital Clear Lake, and Marlene Wentz, EA, & Associates.

Additional sponsors include Braito’s Marina, California Exterminators, Lake County Milers, Robertson and Associates CPAs, Thrivent Financial, Twin Pine Casino and Hotel, Under the Sun Garden Supply, Angelina’s Bakery, Aqua Man Spa Repair, Elizabeth Davis - Coldwell Banker, Innovative Physical Therapy, Lucerne Roofing and Supply, Premier Auto Body, Realty World - David Hughes and Associates, Sterling Mortgage and The UPS Store.

For information about Hospice Services of Lake County, visit its Web site or send an email to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. .

Janine Smith-Citron is development specialist for Hospice Services of Lake County.