PHOTO PROVIDED Ron Cimini, center-right, is pictured with representatives from Susquehanna Health Foundation and UPMC Rehabilitation Institute.

WILLIAMSPORT — Ronald Cimini has spent a lifetime giving back through philanthropy, volunteerism and deep engagement with the community. When he learned of the opportunity to support the expansion of the UPMC Rehabilitation Institute at UPMC Williamsport, he saw it as a meaningful way to honor the exceptional care he and his family received, while investing in the future of health care for the region.

“Donating to campaigns that support essential services in our region is a great way to give back because you get to see the transformation firsthand, as well as the direct impact it has on our community,” said Cimini. “I choose to give to projects I believe in, and the UPMC Rehabilitation Institute is a program that has earned my trust and my praise. Simply put, the entire team of doctors, nurses, support staff and therapists are first-rate and now they have a top-level facility to match the superb care, medical attention and rehabilitation they provide.”

Completed in spring 2024, the multi-year renovation and expansion project has redefined inpatient rehabilitation care in the region. The upgraded facility now features 30 private rooms with in-room bathrooms, two modern rehabilitation gyms, private treatment spaces for speech therapy and psychology services, a sensory room for neurologic patients, enhanced safety and security equipment and expanded common areas for support groups, music therapy, and staff education. It also includes a dedicated space for a low-level head injury program, one of only three programs of its type in Pennsylvania, designed for specialized treatment of traumatic brain injuries.

“This project marks a significant milestone for our region, and it’s amazing to see how it’s enhanced the care we’re able to deliver to our patients,” said Tom Hoy, executive administrator, Musculoskeletal, Neuroscience and Rehabilitation Services, UPMC North Central Pa. “Ron’s generous gift is one not only making an impact now, but will continue to shape the care we provide for years to come. He saw the potential of this project and how these highly specialized services elevate the experience for our patients and their families. This facility is an investment in the health and strength of our community.”

Cimini’s generous donations, totaling $1 million dollars, were made in memory of his grandson, Connor, and his wife, Rosie. His contribution was part of a broader philanthropic effort, with an additional $3 million in community donations raised through the Susquehanna Health Foundation’s Susquehanna Strong campaign.

“Donors like Ron are the heartbeat of our mission,” said Patti Jackson-Gehris, market president, UPMC North Central Pa., and president, UPMC Williamsport. “Their generosity fuels innovation, expands access and ensures that compassionate, high-quality care is available close to home. Ron and his family’s commitment to this community is extraordinary, and their impact will be felt for decades. Philanthropy is more than a gift; it’s a legacy of care and a promise of a healthier tomorrow.”

UPMC Rehabilitation Institute in Williamsport’s inpatient unit cares for more than 600 patients a year with an average length of stay of 12 days. These patients are aged 13 and older and are receiving treatment for diagnoses of stroke, burn, fractures, trauma, brain injuries and spinal cord injuries. The program is certified with a Gold Seal of Approval® by the Joint Commission for the services offered for stroke, brain injury and spinal cord injury rehabilitation.

To learn more about the comprehensive services offered by UPMC Rehabilitation Institute in northcentral Pennsylvania, visit UPMC.com/RehabNCPA.