Joan Kerr will be returning for a second year as president of the Chemainus Health Care Auxiliary.
Kerr introduced her executive members for 2018 during the auxiliary’s annual Christmas installation and luncheon Saturday at the Chemainus 55+ Activity Centre. Marie Hinchsliff, who also organized the luncheon, remains as past president for a second year while Susan Beaubier is the vice president, Sharon Stocco assumes the role of secretary and Donna McCasky takes over the treasurer’s duties among the primary officers.
Kerr praised the work of the executive, the other directors and the overall membership.
The incredible success of the Auxiliary Thrift Shop makes such enormous gifts possible to organizations like Cowichan Hospice that received $100,000 Saturday.
“Every cent you make is donated to health care,” Kerr enthused. “That is a true philanthropist.”
She also reported the organization’s funds are benefiting youth to the tune of $61,000 in bursaries and scholarships this year.
“There is money raised in this little town for so many different things,” noted Kerr.
“I really think Chemainus needs to have a sign at the roundabout there: ‘Chemainus, small town with a big heart.’”
Kerr added work has started on a memorial wall through the efforts of Curl Twentyman in documenting all the history.
Peggy Cavanaugh, who’s responsible for membership, announced the presentations of auxiliary pins to those reaching landmark years of service. Sally Urton and Bernie McColl were the recipients of 30-year pins and presented with flowers from Lynda Avis, the president of the B.C. Association of Healthcare Auxiliaries.
“You have both made a real difference to this auxiliary and this community and it is our privilege to honour you today,” Avis said.
She said the colours of carnations they received were significant, with the white flowers standing for steadfast spirit, pink for appreciation for all they’ve done and red for lasting respect.