Dr. Helmcken Memorial Hospital Auxiliary (DHMHA) held their annual general meeting on May 2, 2024.
Members gathered at the hospital to review the past year and plan for the year ahead. The auxiliary members enjoyed a catered lunch and the new executive officers were installed officially by invited guest Okanagan Mainline Area (OMA), Director, Amanda Laranjo with the B.C. Association of Healthcare Auxiliaries.
Laranjo has been a member of the Vernon auxiliary for the past six years and is currently serving as the membership director on the board.
The primary purpose of the auxiliary as stated in their mission statement is to raise funds, and to add to the comfort and welfare of patients receiving Dr. Helmcken Memorial Hospital services as well as assisting the administration of the hospital and to foster good relations between the hospital and the public.
The hospital auxiliary consists of over 55 dedicated volunteers who give of their time to fundraise for the purpose of purchasing new equipment for the hospital through a variety of events and also the operation of the thrift shop located in Vavenby, B.C. and a gift corner shop located inside the hospital. The DHMHA holds two main fundraising events each year. The Spring Garden Party and in the fall, the 50/50 raffle for $10,000.
This year’s annual Garden Party was held on Sunday May, 5 2024 at the Blackpool Hall in Clearwater, B.C. with a silent and live auction, a raffle and 50/50 accompanied by live music and a luncheon. Tickets sold for $25 each.
Proceeds from the annual Garden Party will go towards future equipment purchases and comfort care for patients at Dr. Helmcken Memorial Hospital throughout the year.
