Reid Health Blue Brigade Volunteer Auxiliary gifts $210,000 to support patient care

The Reid Health Blue Brigade Volunteer Auxiliary presented a $210,000 gift to the Reid Health Foundation to support patient care across the health system in 2026.

Funds are raised year-round through special sales and the Ginkgo Boutique, the hospital gift shop. Additionally, the auxiliary hosts vendor sales throughout the year to raise funds. Vendor partners in 2025 included The Nutman, Collective Goods Books Are Fun, and Nothing Bundt Cakes.

Proceeds from the gift shop and other fundraising activities are presented annually to the foundation.

Since its formation in 1948, the auxiliary has contributed nearly $5.9 million to the Reid Health Foundation. These funds are used to support patient care, purchase equipment and technology, and invest in community outreach programs that improve health and well-being.

“Volunteers are an integral part of the patient experience at Reid Health,” said Shara Short, Volunteer Services Manager.

“Through their service, fundraising efforts, and genuine compassion, the Blue Brigade Auxiliary helps ensure our patients and families feel supported every step of the way.”

The auxiliary will continue working alongside Reid to support programs and initiatives that enhance patient care and encourage community health and well-being.

Auxiliary funding will support a range of programs and services, including Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs), a gift toward the Building UP in Connersville Campaign Honor Wall, Challenge Day, Choose Well at Home, comfort blankets, prenatal and infant loss support, Stop the Bleed, the therapy dog program, and other areas where the need is greatest.

Past gifts from the auxiliary have supported initiatives such as a fetal monitor and infant incubator, the pediatric unit playroom, motorized parallel bars for physical therapy, the grand piano, the green roof garden, and programs including the Pediatric Cheer Fund, Shoes for Kids, and the College Internship Program.

Auxiliary President Jim Spon said he’s proud of the team of volunteers and the leadership of the Reid Foundation and Reid Health, who all work together to support patient care for the community.

“I’m just so thankful we can make this contribution to Reid Health and its programs,” Spon said.

He added the volunteers’ dedication is evident through their daily interactions with patients and visitors.

“We all believe in Reid and its mission, and we all have a small part in helping. Our volunteers carry themselves so well as they assist patients and visitors, and that makes a real difference,” Spon said.

Short said volunteers play an essential role across the organization. The auxiliary has about 110 active volunteers who donated more than 8,500 hours combined of service across various departments.

“We’re incredibly grateful for the volunteers who give their time and talent to Reid,” Short said.

“As our organization continues to grow, we welcome new volunteers who want to serve their community."

Spon echoes that sentiment, welcoming new volunteers to the Blue Brigade who want to make a meaningful impact through service and fundraising in support of patient care.

The auxiliary’s officers for 2026 include Spon as president; John Reddington as president-elect and recording secretary; Pat Shuck as treasurer; Virginia Thompson as assistant treasurer; Becky Russell as assistant recording secretary; and Patsy Goble as corresponding secretary.

For more information about volunteering at Reid Health, visit reidhealth.org/volunteer-opportunities.