NIH Auxiliary gears up for its annual Boutique fundraiser

The Northern Inyo Hospital Auxiliary is ready for Saturday’s annual boutique that helps raise funds for the purchase of hospital equipment, not always able to be included in annual NIHD budgets. From left to right, with samples of their wares, are Betty Dickey, Pat Hawley, Carole Sample, Auxiliary President Karen Benson, Linda Dionne, Marti Witters, Nona Jones, Adie Zaragosa and Sharon Moore. Photo by Barbara Laughon/Northern Inyo Healthcare District

Ready to kick off your holiday shopping and support a great cause? The Northern Inyo Hospital Auxiliary invites you to their much-anticipated Annual Boutique, happening Saturday, Nov. 2, from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the NIHD Birch Street Annex. As the Auxiliary’s largest public fundraiser, all proceeds from the Boutique help the Auxiliary purchase essential equipment for Northern Inyo Healthcare District, covering needs often beyond the reach of annual budgets.

This year’s boutique collection includes a fresh array of handcrafted treasures, homemade baked goods, and everyone's favorite: See’s Candy.

For more than 30 years, this volunteer-driven organization has generously given back to the healthcare district, raising a remarkable $813,702.04 in total contributions. From diagnostic equipment to patient comforts, the Auxiliary’s support has enriched various NIHD service lines, with one of their most recent contributions being a high-precision slit lamp for ocular diagnosis, valued at $22,975.89.

The Auxiliary's commitment goes beyond the Boutique, as they also operate the NIH Gift Shop in the hospital's Main Lobby, open Tuesday through Thursday, 12 noon to 4 p.m., offering a range of gifts and convenience items for patients and visitors. Additionally, NIHD staff and the public can look forward to the Auxiliary's annual Hall Sale, held later this November in the hospital’s Main Lobby.

“We’re so grateful to the Northern Inyo Hospital Auxiliary and all the dedicated volunteers who work tirelessly, not just for the Boutique but throughout the year,” says NIHD CEO Stephen DelRossi. “Their dedication and fundraising make a lasting impact on the services we can provide, enhancing our ability to care for the community. The Boutique is a chance for the public to see this generosity in action and support their valuable mission.”

Membership in the Northern Inyo Hospital Auxiliary is open to all who are ready to lend a helping hand and a caring heart. Whether a seasoned crafter or simply someone with a passion for giving back, there is a place for everyone in this dedicated group. Not a crafter? Help organize events or give some time to help expand gift shop hours. The only requirement is a desire to support our local hospital and make a difference in the lives of others.

Auxiliary President Karen Benson extends a warm invitation to anyone interested in joining this passionate group. The Auxiliary holds weekly meetings Wednesdays at 10 a.m. at the Birch Street Annex, where new faces are always welcome.

“We’re like a family here, working together year-round to make each Boutique special and to serve the hospital in meaningful ways,” Benson shares. “If you have a passion for giving back to our community and making a difference, we would love to meet you.”

For more information about the Auxiliary, please call Karen Benson at (760) 872-1495.