St. Mary's Hospital Auxiliary has served the hospital and the community since 1958, during a time when hospitals were facing difficulty due to patient peaks and consistent shortages of professional help. Recognizing the need for an organization to assist hospital staff and patients, Sister Doris Poettker, OSF, hospital administrator, was determined to establish such a group.

The women of Streator responded to Sister Doris' cordial invitation with enthusiasm. These women also realized the need for an organization to bring greater community interest and understanding to the hospital through volunteer service.

This joy of serving others has been embraced over the past 44 years by the many women and men who have served as Auxiliary volunteers.

Last year, 176 members of St. Mary's Hospital Auxiliary logged a total of 26,342 hours in 12 different service areas throughout the hospital. Volunteers assist patients and staff as mail and menu delivery volunteers, front desk and surgical service assistants, gift shop clerks, medical records and planning and development volunteers and much more.

The Auxillary continues to promote healthcare as a profession through fundraising activities that support its scholarship program. Nearly $9,000 in scholarships are awarded annually to local students pursuing careers in healthcare.

To learn more about volunteer and Auxiliary opportunities at St. Mary's Hospital, please contact Ellen Rapp, Volunteer Coordinator, at 815-673-2311, ext. 3231.