Contact:
Barbara Laughon
(760) 873-5811 ext. 3415 [email protected]

NIHD Auxiliary installs new officers, welcomes new members

With more than 4,400 volunteer hours logged this past year alone, the Northern Inyo Hospital Auxiliary celebrated its ongoing impact by installing new officers for 2025-26 during a May 14 luncheon at the Bishop Country Club. NIHD’s Chief Operations and Nursing Officer, Allison Partridge, served as the installing officer.

The newly elected officers are Karen Benson, President; Judy Fratella, Vice President; Laile Giansetto, Treasurer; Linda Dionne, Recording Secretary; and Vivian Mitchel, Corresponding Secretary.

The Auxiliary also welcomed three new members to its ranks: Carole Wade, Ginny Rude, and Pat Olsen. Their addition brings fresh energy to a group whose quiet impact stretches across more than six decades.

President Karen Benson shared that Auxiliary members donated 4,485 volunteer hours over the past year. The numbers tell a powerful story: During the past year alone, Auxiliary members gave 4,485 hours of their time to NIHD. Since 1982, their recorded contributions total more than 310,000 volunteer hours — the equivalent of more than 35 years of continuous, around-the-clock service.

On a more personal level, each hour represents a moment of compassion, care, and community spirit. This year’s milestone hour awards, calculated on a collective basis, went to:

• Laura Fletcher – 100 hours
• Linda Dionne – 500 hours
• Laile Giansetto – 550 hours
• Pat Hawley – 1,000 hours
• Marti Witters – 1,500 hours
• Karen Benson – 2,400 hours
• Vivian Mitchel – 7,000 hours
• Judy Fratella – 13,000 hours
• Nona Jones – 13,500 hours
• Sharon Moore – 21,500 hours

All of this also equates to the successful raising of $825,000 in needed equipment. Among the equipment purchased in the last five years are a slit lamp and rapid infuser for the Emergency Department, bassinets with cardio monitors for Inyo and Mono counties’ only Labor and Delivery department, an ultrasound machine for the Anesthesiology team, a much-needed treadmill for Physical Therapy, and the Steris Clarity system for the surgical team.  These acquisitions have not only improved the patient experience during the last 60 years, but have also been crucial for the well-being of the community relying on NIHD’s services.

“We may not wear scrubs, but our Auxiliary members show up to serve — one handmade gift, one kind gesture, one fundraiser at a time,” Benson said. “As our hospital faces growing needs, community support is essential. If you’ve ever wanted to give back in a way that truly matters, consider coming to a meeting and get to know us.”

The Auxiliary raises funds through a mix of donations, community-driven events, and hands-on projects — including its popular Holiday Craft Boutique, set for Saturday, Nov. 1, and the operation of the hospital Gift Shop.

Located in NIHD’s Main Lobby, the Gift Shop features beautiful handmade quilts, See’s Candy, and a wide selection of seasonal gifts. Many visitors say it is the best spot in town for unique baby clothing and thoughtful presents. Currently open Tuesdays through Thursdays, noon to 4 p.m., the shop is a treasured stop for patients, staff, and families. Benson hopes to expand the hours, but that depends on bringing in a few more helping hands.

Membership is open to both women and men. There are no prerequisites — just a desire to pitch in and support the hospital and its patients in meaningful ways. To learn more about joining the Auxiliary, stop by the Gift Shop, or contact Karen Benson at (760) 872-1495 or 818-438-0691.

The Northern Inyo Hospital Auxiliary’s 2025-26 officers are ready to lead a year of giving back. This dedicated team guides the Auxiliary’s mission to support patient care through volunteer service and fundraising for essential hospital equipment. From left to right: President Karen Benson, Vice President Judy Fratella, Treasurer Laile Giansetto, Recording Secretary Linda Dionne, and Corresponding Secretary Vivian Mitchell. Photo by Barbara Laughon/Northern Inyo Healthcare District