Native Sons of the Golden West Donate $75,000 to Sutter Health Cleft Palate Clinic

Decades-long support for pediatric craniofacial care continues in California

Published on Feb. 10, 2026

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The Native Sons of the Golden West Charitable Foundation has presented a $75,000 donation to the Sutter Health Medical Center Cleft Palate Clinic, continuing its long-standing commitment to supporting children born with cleft lip, cleft palate, and other craniofacial conditions. The donation represents a $5,000 increase over last year's contribution and is part of the organization's decades-long support for cleft palate treatment in California, totaling over $4 million in contributions to affiliated hospitals statewide.

Why it matters

The Native Sons of the Golden West's ongoing support for the Sutter Health Cleft Palate Clinic highlights the organization's dedication to preserving California history and supporting charitable causes, particularly those focused on helping children with craniofacial conditions. This donation ensures continued access to specialized, multidisciplinary care for affected families across Northern California.

The details

The check was formally presented on December 9 by Grand First Vice President Kris Nelson, joined by Grand Trustee Steve Reinert and Charitable Foundation directors Jim Wilmarth, Mike Linn, Robert Santos, and Brian Ferdani. The donation represents a $5,000 increase over last year's contribution. Also in attendance were recently retired Dr. Laura Workman and members of the Sutter Health Cleft Palate Clinic staff, along with family members whose lives have been directly impacted by the program's care.

  • The donation was presented on December 9, 2026.
  • The Native Sons of the Golden West has supported cleft palate treatment in California since 1953.

The players

Native Sons of the Golden West Charitable Foundation

A fraternal organization dedicated to preserving California history, promoting civic engagement, and supporting charitable causes throughout the state, including a focus on helping children born with cleft lip, cleft palate, and other craniofacial conditions.

Sutter Health Medical Center

A comprehensive medical center in Sacramento that provides specialized treatment and long-term support for children and families affected by craniofacial conditions through its Cleft Palate Clinic.

Dr. Laura Workman

Recently retired doctor from the Sutter Health Cleft Palate Clinic.

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What they’re saying

“This donation reflects both our history and our future. Supporting children and families through advanced medical care remains one of our most meaningful missions.”

— Marcia Skelton, Information Services Chairman for the Native Sons of the Golden West (einpresswire.com)

The takeaway

The Native Sons of the Golden West's longstanding support for the Sutter Health Cleft Palate Clinic demonstrates the organization's commitment to preserving California's history and supporting charitable causes that make a meaningful difference in the lives of children and families affected by craniofacial conditions.