In June 2008, the three auxiliaries to Sewickley Valley Hospital (Ambridge District Auxiliary, Moon Area Auxiliary and The Auxiliary of Sewickley Valley Hospital) became one. As the hospital changed its name to Heritage Valley Sewickley to better reflect the relationship to its parent organization – Heritage Valley Health System – so did the three auxiliaries through the formation of the Heritage Valley Sewickley Auxiliary. With a rich history of service and fundraising over a combined 197 years, the auxiliary is now positioned to carry on with their good works well into the 21st century.

To be a member of Heritage Valley Sewickley Auxiliary is to commit to assist one’s community hospital meet its mission and its vision. Members of the auxiliary are held to the Health System’s values of Ethical Behavior, Collaboration, Responsibility, Compassion, Proficiency and Service Excellence.

Among the activities are the annual Unique Boutique held in November which brings together thirty plus specialty vendors for a wonderful ‘shop ‘til you drop’ experience; the Tree of Life program in December in which ornaments are available for purchase at a nominal fee and displayed on the hospitals Holiday Trees in honor of or in memory of someone special; the No Bake-Bake Sale in February which instead of baking items for sale, the members contribute what they normally would spend on baking. This is a treat for those with limited time or who have never risen to the heights of Betty Crocker! Another very special activity is the awarding of a $1,000 scholarship in May to assist a student with their education who is currently enrolled in Health System’s School of Nursing. Participation is not limited to auxiliary-based events. Support by auxilians to the Health System’s Wine Event and Golf Outings, coordinated by the HVHS Foundation, are extremely important.

Membership is open to men and women of the local communities and meetings are held four times during the year. Members are encouraged, in addition to supporting fundraising activities, to help with volunteer activities at the hospital or one of its satellite facilities. There are always opportunities for those who want to be active members.

The Heritage Valley Sewickley Gift Shop (Phone: 412-749-7190) is located on the 3rd floor of the hospital. Under the management of the auxiliary, the gift shop provides the hospital with its net proceeds each year. Small food items, gifts and cards are available for purchase seven days per week. Volunteers, under the direction of a manager, support the daily activities.

Gift shop hours are Monday through Friday 8:30 am - 8 pm and Saturday and Closed Sundays and Holidays.  Purchases can also be made by credit card via the telephone.

For information on auxiliary membership, auxiliary fund raisers or gift shop services, please contact Irene Dailey, volunteer and community services at 412.749.7052 or idailey@hvhs.org.