Spring Blooms Gala Raises $150,000 to Expand Behavioral Health Access in Southern Illinois

It started as an evening of elegance—but it ended as a night of impact.

On March 28, more than 400 guests gathered at Walkers Bluff Casino Resort for the SIH Foundation’s Spring Blooms Gala, a signature fundraising event supporting the planned expansion and modernization of the SIH Mulberry Center in Harrisburg. The event generated nearly $150,000 in support of the behavioral health project.

Located on the campus of SIH Harrisburg Medical Center, the SIH Mulberry Center is the only non-state operated inpatient behavioral health unit south of Interstate 64. Its services are a lifeline for individuals in crisis—and the proposed expansion aims to meet a rising demand for care.

“Our theme, Spring Blooms, was intentionally chosen,” said SIH Foundation Director Jennifer Sigler, PhD. “It reflects not only the season, but the renewal and hope that begins every day at the SIH Mulberry Center. This project isn’t just about bricks and mortar—it’s about restoring dignity, expanding access and building a more compassionate future for behavioral health care in Southern Illinois.”

The renovation will increase patient capacity by 40%, add private rooms for those with complex medical needs and enhance the environment of care for patients and staff alike. Importantly, the project also aims to reduce the more than 700 patients turned away each year due to lack of space.

“Mental illness is very prevalent in our region, and families are often forced to travel far just to find care. The SIH Mulberry Center allows us to offer the same level of support available in any part of the country—right here at home. We’re proud of that, and we want to do even more,” said Dr. Naeem Qureshi, SIH psychiatrist and medical director of behavioral health.

The evening’s energy was matched by a strong showing from the SIH family—providers and their families, nurses, leaders, team members and Foundation supporters all turned out in support of the mission. Silent auction items, dinner, music and heartfelt stories made the night memorable, but the true impact will be felt in the lives this project will touch.

“At SIH, one in every five patients has a mental health condition,” added Dr. Sigler. “This is our moment to create lasting change—not just in infrastructure, but in the way we care for the people we serve.”

Save the Date:

The momentum continues this summer. SIH will host a groundbreaking ceremony for the Mulberry Center expansion on Monday, June 24, on the hospital campus in Harrisburg. More details to come.

Together, we’re planting the seeds of hope—and watching something extraordinary grow.