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The Cooper Foundation‘s 15th Annual Red Hot Gala raised nearly $4 million in support of Cooper University Health Care, the Camden-based organization announced Sept. 26, the day of the event. 

The black-tie bash drew nearly 1,000 business leaders, philanthropists and community advocates to the TRIAD1828 Centre on the Camden waterfront. 

Since its inception, the gala has raised $30 million to support Cooper University Health Care.  

This year’s the event honored longtime Cooper Health supporters Donna and Rick Forman. Donna Forman, a breast cancer survivor, is first vice chair of The Cooper Foundation Board and a key organizer of the foundation’s Pink & Teal cancer research fundraiser. Rick Forman is the founder of discount retail chain Forman Mills. 

Donna Forman said her diagnosis brought her to Cooper and gave her “the chance to turn a difficult moment into something meaningful — not just for myself, but for my family and so many other women who needed to know they could get through it, too.” 

Gratitude

Cooper Health’s leadership team thanked the Formans for their generosity and others who help support the provider’s work. 

George Norcross III, chairman of the Cooper University Health Care Board of Trustees, described the couple as exemplifying “the very best of South Jersey.” 

“The annual Red Hot Gala has always been about more than one night—it’s about Cooper’s future,” Norcross added. “The generosity of families like the Formans ensures we can continue to deliver advanced care, expand programs, and meet the growing needs of our community.”

Philip Norcross, chairman of The Cooper Foundation board, noted the Formans’ support helps expand cancer care, strengthen the provider’s programs and helps fuel the $3 billion Camden campus expansion. That project broke ground in February. 

Cooper co-CEOs Kevin O’Dowd and Dr. Anthony Mazzarelli also expressed their gratitude to the Formans, as well as the support of other giving families and corporate partners.  

“Donna and Rick turned their own challenges into opportunities to make life better for others,” Mazzarelli added.