To the community,

On behalf of the physicians and staff at Barton Health, I want to thank the Barton Auxiliary for volunteering their time and providing generous donations for our health and wellness efforts.

More than 80 community members make up the Barton Auxiliary, a compassionate and dedicated group of individuals who help support Barton Hospital, its patients, and the community. They can be found in many places, such as escorting Skilled Nursing residents on field trips, guiding visitors around the hospital, handing out comfort items to patients, or sorting donations at the Attic Thrift Store. In this past year, the Barton Auxiliary volunteered 29,092 hours.

In addition to their volunteerism, the Auxiliary members are also generous benefactors of Barton Health. In 2015, the Auxiliary raised $280,850.99 from the Attic and gift shop sales, holiday fundraisers, and personal donations. This means the Auxiliary has raised more than $7,456,000 dollars since its inception in 1960.

Barton Memorial Hospital, which has transformed into a regional health system, would not have existed without the Barton Auxiliary.  As we celebrate National Volunteer Week April 10-16, I extend my appreciation to the Barton Auxiliary for improving the health and wellness of our community.

Molly Hucklebridge Coolidge, communications specialist Barton Health