Ladies Auxiliary

The Ladies Auxiliary has been active in helping First Care Health Center since they were organized in May of 1952. Instrumental in organizing the Auxiliary were Sister Lelia, Mrs. McCann Archer and Rev. W. R. Radliff. The officers elected at the first organizational meeting were: Mabel Dougherty, President, Mrs. Oscar Stromli, Mrs. Elmer Argetsinger, Mrs. Melvin Olson and Mr. A. N. Flaten, Vice Presidents, Mrs. Henry Green, Secretary and Mrs. Peder Peterson, Treasurer. There were approximately 50 ladies present at this meeting.

At the present time we have approximately 28 members, which include active, inactive and honorary members. Our dues are $1.00 per year and have not increased since the Auxiliary was organized.

Our year begins in May when our officers are elected. In the fall we are treated to a lovely luncheon prepared by the dietary department. A festive atmosphere prevails and the health care staff presents a fun and enjoyable program.

We have many members who contribute much time and talent in making beautiful items that are sold in the display case at the health center and also at the holiday bazaar. Our embroidered and appliquéd dishtowels are the biggest seller of our handmade articles. Also available in our display case are knives, greeting cards as well as other novelty items.

Our purpose is to help our Health Center in any way we can. The Auxiliary has provided funding for television sets and drapes for patients' rooms. For the past several years we've made ribbons crosses, which are given to those attending the Tree of Light ceremony that is held in December at the Health Center.

Over the years, we have given over $400,000.00 to First Care Health Center and continue to help when there is a need. Since 1992 we have given:

• $9,000.00 for patient care and equipment

• $6,000 for the purchase of 2 new computers and for the purchase of a fluid and blanket warmer

• $5,000.00 to Hospice to purchase equipment for the chemotherapy program at First Care Health Center

• $4,000.00 for bathroom renovation

• $21,067.00 for the Emergency Room Fund

• $4,490.00 for a scope for cataract and ear surgery

• $10,000.00 for Capital Campaign Building Project

• $10,000.00 for the X-Ray Project

 

A small group of women have made a lot of things happen at the hospital. Their accomplishments are lengthy and impressive and are the special gifts of time, abilities, and dedication that have been given in concern for needs and benefit of the patients.