NIH Auxiliary installs officers, celebrates decades of service

Shown here with NIHD CEO Christian Wallis are the 2026-27 Northern Inyo Hospital Auxiliary officers, front left to right, Corresponding Secretary Vivian Mitchel, Recording Secretary Linda Dionne, Treasurer Laile Giansetto, Vice President Judy Fratella, and President Karen Benson. Northern Inyo Healthcare District /Barbara Laughon.
 

The Northern Inyo Hospital Auxiliary installed its 2026-27 officers during a special ceremony held May 13, celebrating another year of volunteer service, community generosity, and support for patient care across the Eastern Sierra.

Karen Benson will return for a second term as Auxiliary president. Serving alongside Benson will be Judy Fratella as vice president, Laile Giansetto as treasurer, Linda Dionne as recording secretary, and Vivian Mitchel as corresponding secretary. Northern Inyo Healthcare District CEO Christian Wallis, served as the presiding officer for the installation ceremony.

“The Auxiliary represents the very best of community service,” Wallis said. “For decades, these volunteers have quietly and consistently helped strengthen area healthcare. Their dedication has touched nearly every corner of our hospital and continues to make a meaningful difference for everyone who visits NIHD.”

The Auxiliary also welcomed three new members during the past year — Nicole Raynaud, Chris Johnson, and Kim Pham.

Volunteer service milestones were recognized during the event, highlighting thousands of hours dedicated to NIHD and its community. Individual cumulative service hour awards included Linda Dionne and Ginny Rude, 1,500; Marti Witters, 1,550; Laile Giansetto, 2,500; Karen Benson, 3,500; Betty Dickey, 6,000; Vivian Mitchel, 6,500; Judy Fratella, 14,000; and Sharon Moore with 22,500 hours.

Together, Auxiliary volunteers contributed 6,882 hours during the 2025-26 year, bringing the organization’s cumulative volunteer service total to 316,918 hours since May 1988. During that time, the Auxiliary raised approximately $833,000 to support patient care and hospital services.

Among the many purchases made during the last five years are a slit lamp and rapid infuser for the Emergency Department, bassinets with cardio monitors for Inyo and Mono counties’ only Labor and Delivery department, an ultrasound machine for the anesthesiology team, a treadmill for Physical Therapy, and the Steris Clarity system used by the surgical team.

“These investments directly support patient care and help ensure our rural communities continue to have access to high-quality healthcare,” Benson said. “Every fundraiser, every quilt, and every hour volunteered represents neighbors helping neighbors. That is what makes the Auxiliary so special.”

The Auxiliary raises funds through donations, community events, and hands-on projects, including operation of the Northern Inyo Hospital Gift Shop and the organization’s annual Holiday Craft Boutique, scheduled this year for Saturday, Nov. 7.

Located in Northern Inyo Hospital’s Main Lobby, the Gift Shop features handmade quilts, See’s Candy, seasonal gifts, baby clothing, and a variety of unique items popular with patients, visitors, and staff. Currently open Tuesday through Thursday from noon to 4 p.m., the shop has become a favorite stop for thoughtful gifts and one-of-a-kind finds.

For many members, the Auxiliary offers more than volunteer service — it creates friendships and a shared sense of purpose while directly supporting local healthcare. Benson said the Auxiliary hopes to expand Gift Shop hours in the future, but additional volunteers are needed.

Membership is open to anyone interested in giving back to the community and supporting healthcare close to home. Volunteers of all ages and backgrounds are welcome, and no special experience is required.

“We would love to welcome new faces,” Benson said. “You do not have to commit endless hours to make a difference. Every bit of help matters, and volunteering is a wonderful way to connect with others while supporting healthcare in our community.”

To learn more about joining the Northern Inyo Hospital Auxiliary, stop by the Gift Shop or contact Benson at (760) 872-1495 or (818) 438-0691.