Starting off her time with the Renfrew Victoria Hospital’s Auxiliary by helping out at the gift shop, Janie Bilson is now their President and oversees raising and handling the funds that help keep RVH well equipped and up-to-date.
Founded in 1945, the Auxiliary features around 30 volunteers who not only raise funds for the hospital but also help with various programs and events that take place at RVH throughout the calendar year.
Whether it’s a bake sale down at Scott and Sons Hardware, Christmas raffles, partnering with St. Paul’s Anglican Church for a fashion show (look for it on May 27th), or even just through private donations, Bilson says all the money they raise goes to assisting Renfrew Victoria Hospital in any way the can.
Some major achievements that Janie says have happened while she’s been part of the group include the completion of a solarium space inside the hospital and the creation of a new fund for nurses looking for additional training or certifications in honour of the late Frances Wilson.
She adds that their group is always looking for more help, adding that it’s both a great team and a great atmosphere to be part of.