A 50-year tradition

Fifty years ago, Dr. George and Mrs. Bess Tarasidis began the Tarasidis Fund to support Carilion Clinic employees in the New River Valley facing unexpected financial hardship, ensuring they can still enjoy the joy of the holiday season despite extenuating circumstances beyond their control.

In 2025, the fund supported 80 families, including 110 children, by providing food assistance, essential items such as clothing, and meaningful gifts that helped create warm and lasting holiday memories during their time of need. In-kind and monetary contributions ensured that each child received age-appropriate gifts, whether donated through an Angel Tree or purchased with donated funds. Gifts included bicycles, tool sets, earphones, tablets, games, and dolls.

Families also received $50 grocery gift cards to assist with holiday meals. Thanks to the generosity of donors, these families were able to enjoy the season with a renewed sense of community and emotional relief. “It amazes me how many of the individuals who were supported by the fund will later pay it forward,” said Charles Tarasidis. “Families from past years make sure others get the same kindness and love they once received.”

Supported by Carilion Clinic employees, retired team members, private individuals, and board members, the Tarasidis Fund continues to honor the founders’ longstanding legacy of compassion toward others during the holiday season. Later this year, the Carilion Clinic Foundation looks forward to celebrating the fund’s 50th anniversary and the countless happy holiday memories it has helped create for families across the New River Valley.