The group, GECC for short, is a local non-profit organization committed to developing emergency care systems in developing countries where no such care exists.

The group’s pilot project was starting an emergency room in a rural hospital in Uganda where residents suffer from HIV/AIDS and a variety of tropical diseases. The ER opened in June of 2008, and the members of GECC developed a training program for local emergency care providers that’s now in use.

Group member, local doctor Heather Hammerstedt, said the success of the project has inspired a desire to expand, and duplicate the clinic model in other sites.

The goal: raising $20,000 between now and June 1 to pay for things like an ultrasound machine, oxygen concentrator, and training for local care providers.

The group has no overhead, Hammerstedt said, and all participants donate their time, and pay their own travel expenses.

If this project interests you, the members of GECC host a wine bar/art auction event, 7 p.m., Nov. 7 at the Tavern Wine Market. Father Bruno Segatta, an artist, is in town to paint the Boise Foothills. He is donating a painting to be auctioned at the event.

To RSVP, and get more information, call Heather Hammerstedt, 914-3187, or email:hhammerstedt@gmail.com.