Now's Your Chance to Join Volunteer Group

The pandemic has left many of us feeling isolated and alone, but there’s one way to start socializing again safely – for a good cause.

“Our Mercy St. Francis Auxiliary is recruiting new members,” said Karen Simpson-Neasby, executive director of Mercy Health Foundation St. Francis. “These volunteers are critical to the work we do every day. They guide patients, answer visitor questions and raise funds for projects around the hospital.”

The auxiliary’s latest pledge is $200,000 toward life-saving 3D mammography equipment. It’s also recently paid for renovations that created a spacious hospice room where family members can be with their loved one.

Members raise the money through sales at the hospital gift shop and the downtown thrift store. “Everyone gives as much or as little time as they want,” Simpson-Neasby said.

Volunteers say they give as much as they receive. Jane Foval is president of Mercy St. Francis Auxiliary. She and her husband, Tom, both spend a few hours a week volunteering. “I worked at the hospital as a nurse when we first moved to Mountain View,” Foval said. “We both value the local hospital being in our community, and when we retired, we wanted to do volunteer work. The hospital has always been near and dear to our hearts, and they include us as a vital part of their family. We feel blessed to be part of this organization.”

Auxiliary members must be vaccinated against COVID-19 and the flu, and everyone is required to wear a mask for their safety and the safety of those we serve. “If you’re one of those people who’s ready to get back out and help your community, this is a great opportunity,” Simpson-Neasby said. “We’ll work with you to find a spot you’ll enjoy.”

To learn more, just contact Karen Simpson-Neasby at 417-533-6192.