MT. VERNON – SSM Health Good Samaritan Auxiliary held its Installation of Officers luncheon on January 24, 2023. During the luncheon, the Auxiliary celebrated a significant fundraising milestone. With a final payment of $82,000 to the Good Samaritan Hospital Foundation, the group completed a four-year $250,000 pledge towards Cancer Care in the Mt. Vernon region.
“The outstanding efforts and the generosity of this significant gift will touch the lives of countless community members who are receiving cancer services at SSM Health Good Samaritan Hospital,” states Kay Zibby-Damron, Regional Administrative Foundation Director of SSM Health Illinois. “The dedication and work of our Auxiliary are a blessing to the hospital and the community.”
Outgoing President, Pat Garren, thanked the Auxiliary for its support and assistance throughout her term. Garren shared how her tenure was successful because of the teamwork of her fellow volunteers. She reflected on the 10th anniversary of the Good Samaritan Hospital moving into its new facility at 1 Good Samaritan Way. “I was there when the transition occurred and was excited to have played a part in the move,” said Garren. She then presented the gavel to the newly elected Auxiliary President, Brenda Cain. Brenda thanked everyone for their support and is excited about starting her new leadership role.
SSM Health Southern Illinois Regional President, Mike Baumgartner, conveyed words of gratitude for the Auxiliary’s service and fundraising accomplishments. Baumgartner administered the oath of office for the new 2023 Auxiliary Board members. The 2023 Auxiliary Board of Directors includes Brenda Cain, President; Ray Hayes, 1st Vice President; Pat Panarese, 2nd Vice President; Marietta Lamberson, Secretary; Pat Garren, Treasurer; Zeny Jayne, Arlene Cook, Mary Harlan and Rose Rankin all Members-at-Large.
SSM Health Good Samaritan Hospital is thankful for the volunteers who give their time and resources to bless our community. For those interested in becoming a volunteer, start the process by completing an online application at ssmhealth.com/volunteer or call 618-899-1031.