Submitted by ST. DOMINIC’S
St. Dominic’s Auxiliary members meet monthly to sew blankets for the Prayer Blanket Ministry.
The St. Dominic’s Auxiliary has existed almost as long as the hospital has been operating — for 70 years. It offers services to the hospital and its patients while promoting the health and welfare of the community. From volunteering to fundraising, the auxiliary’s 200 members are ready to offer support for St. Dominic’s patients, loved ones and team members.
Joanne Pearson is the current auxiliary president. Her daughter, Tracy Grenfell, is a past president, and once Pearson retired from her career, Grenfell recruited her mom to participate.
“I originally served as co-chair for the Calendar of Thanks fundraising committee. It’s one of my favorite projects,” said Pearson. “I love helping the patients and hospital and getting to know all the members.”
Since 1999, the auxiliary has raised approximately $500,000. This money has supported the Cancer Center, Chapel, Pastoral Care, Adult Intensive Care Unit, Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Emergency Department, St. Catherine’s Village and more.
The auxiliary also has helped fund:
•Museum in the South Lobby
•Fountain outside the South Lobby
•Large flag seen from I-55
•Wheelchairs for medical mall patient transport
•REACH telemedicine cart
•Machines/software for Oncology Services
•Behavioral Health special chairs
•Shuttle cart
Auxiliary fundraisers include:
•Masquerade Jewelry Sale
•Calendar of Thanks
•Team Member Appreciation Week
•Partners in Hope
•Lights of Love
•Sisters’ Appreciation Tea
Lights of Love
A glowing light twinkled through the St. Dominic Medical Mall lobby in December while Christmas caroling voices echoed through the building. It was the Lights of Love ceremony, which the auxiliary has led for more than 20 years. Candles were purchased in honor or in memory of loved ones, and funds raised will help renovate St. Dominic’s prayer room.
Threads that bind
Once a month, auxiliary members gather to sew blankets for St. Dominic’s palliative care patients and newborns. They call it the “Prayer Blanket Ministry.”
“It is heartwarming to know so many merchants support our Prayer Blanket Ministry,” said Charlene Bullock, auxiliary member and project organizer. “Plus, I love being part of an organization making a difference in the lives of those around us. I have made many friendships by being a part of the auxiliary.”
“The auxiliary’s fundraising has given numerous departments much-needed patient care equipment, supplies and comfort measures,” added Aimee Burrow, volunteer services manager. “Their prayer blanket initiative serves our patients year-round. We are so appreciative of the auxilians and their efforts to enhance our Christian healing ministry.”
Pearson added that she is excited about what the future holds for the auxiliary and wants to recruit more members. “Volunteering with the auxiliary allows us to share ideas, help our patients and give back to St. Dominic’s. We have a highly engaged group and a committed board, and we look forward to maintaining our support for St. Dominic’s patients, staff, and the greater community,” Pearson said.
To learn more about St. Dominic’s Auxiliary, visit stdom.com/programs/auxiliary or email auxiliary@stdom.com.
