Three new members were welcomed to the Atrium Auxiliary Board at the January 18 meeting.  President Carole Schul introduced Deb Duncan as Financial Secretary, Dee Markle as Co-Chair of the Scholarship Committee, and Geri Gorman as Vice President of Programs.

Volunteer Services Manager Priscilla Lane reported an increase of 3 ½ % in volunteer hours in 2009.  During 2009, 335 Adult and Junior volunteers donated 47,234 hours of service to the hospital.

While most volunteers help in hospital departments, 36 individuals and two groups (Middletown Knitting Guild and Otterbein Knitters) gave their time creating handmade items for patients.  Donated items included 1,415 baby hats and 274 hats for chemotherapy patients, as well as garments, blankets and other items for the HEAL (Help Endure a Loss) program which provides support to families who suffer loss of a newborn.

Memorial contributions were approved for Carl Wiese and June Banker, who had been active volunteers and long-time members of the Auxiliary.

The Auxiliary will vote in February on projects presented by the Atrium Medical Center Foundation.  Each year the Auxiliary donates funds for projects and equipment that benefit the hospital and its patients. 

Anyone wanting to buy some great books at good prices should mark their calendar for April 21-23 when the popular book sale will be held in the Atrium of the hospital.

To learn more about becoming a hospital volunteer or joining the Auxiliary, contact the Volunteer office at (513) 420-5201 or visit www.AtriumMedCenter.org.