Pattie A. Clay Auxiliary Presents Hospital with $50,000
The Pattie A. Clay Auxiliary presented a check for $50,000 to Pattie A. Clay Regional Medical Center CEO, Bob Hudson and Board of Directors Chair, Dr. Aaron Thompson, at the monthly hospital board meeting in August. The proceeds from this year’s PACA events went toward the Care, Compassion, and Confidence Campaign for the renovations of the third and fourth floors of the hospital.
The days leading up to this year’s PACA Ball were filled with more excitement than usual. Only days before the black tie event, a wind storm blew through Richmond and took the PACA tents with it. However, the event went on as scheduled with only a few modifications. Volunteers were able to put the event back together for more than 300 attendees to enjoy an elegant night “Under the Sea.”
“Volunteerism has long been a driving force at Pattie A. Clay Regional Medical Center. The hospital was founded by volunteers in 1892 and more than a hundred years later, volunteers continue to play a vital role in the hospital’s growth which was evident with this year’s Ball,” said Bob Hudson. “From the all-volunteer boards of directors, to the dozens of people it takes to organize the annual Pattie A. Clay Auxiliary Ball, volunteerism is an integral part of our philosophy.”
Dianna Gibson, who just completed her second year as co-chair of the Ball, noted that the organization has always worked to improve the hospital and the community. While it was hard work, especially with the unexpected events we faced this year, she also thought it was a lot of fun and a very gratifying experience. “We had a goal to raise as much money this year as we did last year ($43,000),” said Gibson. “With the unexpected events (wind storm) that surrounded this year’s ball, we were so proud that we were able to raise more than last year.”
The Pattie A. Clay Auxiliary (PACA) was formed as a way for community members to become an integral part of promoting the welfare and advancement of Pattie A. Clay Regional Medical Center, the staff and the patients. The auxiliary was founded in 1966, primarily as an organization of hospital volunteers.
“As we continue to develop the hospital, we don’t want to lose the connection we have with the community,” Hudson said. “The expectation is to do things together. Even before the Auxiliary was founded, a lot of ladies were involved so it’s always been a large part of the hospital.”
Hudson said the hospital has accomplished so much in recent years. “We have a viable hospital right here in Richmond,” he said. “We’re still here and we’re still moving forward. We will continue to stay viable now and in the future. The auxiliary is incredible. It’s not just about money. It’s people helping people and making sure we can provide the highest quality of healthcare for our community. It’s about coming together just like we did with this year’s Ball.”
In 2008, the Ball raised $43,000 to be used toward the Care, Compassion, and Confidence capital campaign to renovate third and fourth floors of the hospital. In 38 years, the Ball has now donated over $928,000 to the hospital. Anthem, Central Bank and UK Healthcare were the major sponsors of this year’s events, but dozens of underwriters and donors made the events possible.
The Pattie A. Clay Auxiliary proudly continues the Ball tradition. The 39th Annual Charity Ball is now being planned for June 2010. There are many ways to be involved with the Charity Ball including sponsorships, underwriting, volunteering, Jr. Hostesses or chairing a committee. |
