Joann Bierly (right) is the 2008-09 President of the Hospital Auxiliary, joined by the current Auxiliary officers and directors.

The Helen Ellis Memorial Hospital Auxiliary is the philanthropic arm of Volunteer Services. All proceeds raised by the Auxiliary goes to our community non-profit hospital. The Auxiliary’s six year plan to raise $500,000 for the Emergency Room was completed in May of 2007.  In May 2008 a check in the amount of $50,000 was presented as a Hospital-In-Kind donation to the Foundation for purchases of medical equipment as needed in other areas of the hospital.

Fund-Raising Projects of the Auxiliary

Gift Shop:  Located in the Hospital Lobby, the Gift Shop has grown from the concept of a traveling “Gift Cart” into a beautiful and welcoming environment for patients, their families and visitors and employees to enjoy.  Fully stocked with greeting cards, jewelry, balloons, floral arrangements, candles, stuffed animals, toys, snacks and a myriad of delightful gift items.

Garden Grill Cafe:  Various mouthwatering aromas can be found emanating from the Garden Grill Cafe located behind the Information Desk in the Hospital Lobby area.  And yes, you can even get grilled onions and bacon on your cheeseburger or chicken breast fillet sandwich!  Other delicious lunch items include a garden burger, homemade turkey salad, made to order egg salad, and yes even a hot dog!  If its breakfast you’re hungry for, they have that covered also.  For the sweet tooth, there are muffins, cookies, pies and the ever popular handmade milk shake in chocolate, vanilla and strawberry.

Lights of Love: Each year from November 1st to January 6th you will find the hospital a “buzz” with remembrance in honoring and/or memorializing loved ones by placing an ornament on the Donor Tree set up in the Hospital Lobby.  The Celebration in Song is held on the first Thursday in December to illuminate the outside lights.

Fashion Show:  Each year over 300 attendees enjoy a day of gathering for great food, live entertainment and local fashions.  Silent auctions, door prizes and so much more awaits all who attend this event.

Birdies for Tampa Bay Charities:   Held in March at Innisbrook by the PGA, this tournament assists local charities by matching the funds raised by each charity during this event.  The tournament gives as much as 120% in super matching dollars to the participating charities.

Vendors:  The Gift Shop sponsors vendors in the hospital cafeteria throughout the year. These sales include jewelry, clothing, books, leather products and more at great prices.

These are just a few of the ways the Auxiliary raises money for Helen Ellis Memorial Hospital, our community hospital.

To be a part of this great organization contact:
Coordinator of Volunteer Services
Miriam Pace  (727) 942-5072
        or    
Call the hospital at 942-5000 EXT 2558 for the Volunteer/Auxiliary Office.