CARIBOU, Maine — On Sept. 28, 1954, the Cary Medical Center Ladies Auxiliary officially began. Over its 64 years, the group has provided well over $1 million and countless hours to patients, visitors and employees.
Beginning at Cary Memorial Hospital, now Cary Medical Center, the auxiliary has become the largest fundraising entity that supports the hospital on an annual basis. Through its volunteer-run gift shop, Valentine’s Day bake sale, a poinsettia fundraiser during the holidays, participation at various events such as Thursdays on Sweden and other special events, the auxiliary has raised more than $1 million.
“Throughout the years, the auxiliary’s dynamic fundraising efforts and donations have been pivotal for critical projects here at the hospital,” said Casey Bouchard, communications and community relations specialist at Cary.
“From their support of the new Cary Medical Center building fund in 1978, to their vital role in the renovation for the Women’s Imaging Center, which was completed in December of 2012, the auxiliary has been there with considerable support and has helped to make these and other capital projects possible,” said Bouchard, who has recently joined the auxiliary.
Members also work on special projects at the hospital throughout the year. The auxiliary was the original sponsor of the annual Cary Health Fair. The organization also provides holiday decorations, updates furniture throughout the departments and plants seasonal flowers. Members sew comfort pillows for patients who have undergone abdominal surgery, and present a New Year’s baby basket to Cary’s firstborn baby of the new year.
“These and other service projects help to engage our volunteer auxiliary members and enhance the caring environment that is so much a part of the Cary culture,” said Patty Corriveau, auxiliary president. “We are looking forward to an exciting coming year and we are so grateful for the ongoing support of our membership,” she added.
Kris Doody, RN and Cary’s CEO, said that the auxiliary has meant a great deal to the hospital for more than half a century.
“Our auxiliary has become such a part of the hospital over the years,” said Doody. “Not only have they raised substantial funds and provided valuable service projects but they have become a great public relations ally for the hospital in the community. They help to build positive relationships, tell the hospital story and are great ambassadors.”
The auxiliary is always recruiting active and engaged community members. To learn more, contact Nancy Bergin, auxiliary liaison at the hospital, at 498-3111.
Submitted by the Community Relations and Development Office of Cary Medical Center.
