Hanover Hospital Auxiliary

Supporting Healthcare in Our Community Since 1925

About Us

For nearly a century, the Hanover Hospital Auxiliary has been a cornerstone of healthcare support in our community. What began with just six dedicated members in 1925 has grown into a vibrant organization of volunteers committed to enhancing patient care and supporting hospital services. From our earliest days preparing for the hospital's opening to our modern initiatives, our mission remains unchanged: to serve our community with compassion and care.

Our Rich History

1925-1928

The Auxiliary began with six members meeting at Helen Young's home in 1925. As the hospital opened in 1926, membership grew to 60 volunteers who prepared nearly 2,000 sewn items for the hospital's linen closets. When the Nurses' Home opened in 1928, we donated a piano to provide comfort for the nurses who lived and worked there.

1935-1949

In 1935, the first Baby Day reunion gathered 1,275 parents and children born at the hospital. We established Hospital Day in 1945, giving each patient a plant in appreciation. By 1949, we began participating in the Hanover Horse Show as a major fundraiser.

1954-1965

April 1954 marked the opening of our Hospitality Shop, followed by the hospitality cart service. We sponsored coin-operated TVs throughout the hospital in 1958. The early 1960s featured successful fundraising through Gettysburg Symphony Orchestra concerts, contributing $5,000 to the building fund and $1,800 to establish the Medical Library.

1966-1975

Our inaugural Red Stocking Bazaar netted $7,500 in 1966, and we pledged $27,500 to purchase a hospital elevator. We established an award for excellence in the Practical Nursing Program in 1970 and purchased a security system in 1971. The "Hi Fever Follies" fundraiser began in 1973, and by our 50th anniversary in 1975, membership had grown to 1,100 volunteers.

1979-1991

We published our first cookbook, "Rogue's Roost," in 1979 and contributed $20,000 to the Crossroads Fund. In the 1980s, we created a custom Monopoly game featuring Downtown Hanover and contributed $100,000 for hospital renovation. We established the Employee Educational Gift/Grant Scholarship in 1986 and added a roving cart in 1991.

2003-Present

Among other things, we support initiatives such as Sunshine Boxes that boost staff morale, donations to the Zen Room—a peaceful space for respite during difficult times—and backing nurses marching in the Hanover Halloween Parade. We also helped create a festive Christmas tree display at the Warehime-Myers Mansion & History Museum, provide pulmonary equipment, and respond to various needs as they arise for both patients and staff.

Current Initiatives

• Educational grants supporting professional development for hospital personnel
• Strategic funding for hospital improvement projects and equipment acquisition
• Wellness committee to support nursing needs
• Employee Experience Committee supports all employees throughout UPMC Hanover

How We Raise Funds

• The Hospitality Boutique—our flagship retail location in the visitors' lobby
• Select vending services throughout hospital facilities
• Tree of Life memorial and recognition program
• Mother's Day celebrations including our Garland of Roses
• Holiday plant sales
• Specialty sales
• Membership donations and seasonal fundraising events

Our Impact Today

Last year alone, our dedicated volunteers thousands of hours of service, while our fundraising efforts generated donations to support critical hospital programs and patient services.

For nearly a century, the Hanover Hospital Auxiliary has evolved to meet changing healthcare needs while remaining true to our founding mission—enhancing patient care, supporting healthcare providers, and strengthening our community's health resources.

Be Part of Our Legacy

Join the Hanover Hospital Auxiliary and continue a proud tradition of service that spans generations. Your time, talents, and dedication will make a meaningful difference in the health and wellbeing of our community.

Hanover Hospital Auxiliary | Proudly Serving Since 1925

Contact: helwigaa@upmc.edu | (717) 316-2281