Waupaca’s hospital auxiliary seeks new members
By Angie Landsverk
For two hours every Tuesday morning, a group of women meets in a lower-level conference room of the local hospital.
They knit, crochet and sew.
The space they use is next to the cafeteria in ThedaCare Medical Center-Waupaca.
The results of their work include embroidered towels, mittens, hats, prayer shawls and items for infants.
These items make their way to a corner in the hospital’s gift shop and also to the hospital auxiliary’s annual bazaar.
The funds raised from the sales go toward equipment for the hospital and scholarships for students planning to enter into the medical field, as well as scholarships for nurses continuing their education.
Twenty-five years ago, there were 16 members in this auxiliary group.
Today there are about 10 members.
“We need new members. The oldest is 91,” said Clydene Rohloff.
Rohloff and Mary Ann Rasmussen both joined the group 25 years ago.
“I read it in the paper,” Rasmussen said.
Rohloff saw that same article in the Waupaca County Post.
She hopes another newspaper article attracts new members as well.
“If you just moved here and need something to do, it’s a way to meet people,” Rasmussen said.
She knits, crochets and embroiders and said when she joined the group, it was a way to find uses and homes for things she had at home.
A few women work from home and donate what they make as well.
Their items may be found in the hospital’s gift shop throughout the year and at the bazaar in November.
The bazaar is always held on the opening weekend of Wisconsin’s gun deer hunting season.
The sale is held at the former Riverside Elementary School.
Rohloff said the first year the group was involved in the bazaar, it made $385.
Last year, it made $2,100.
It was the first year the event took place on both Friday and Saturday of that weekend.
The group believes in supporting the community.
Many join the group after retiring.
Members are reimbursed for their supplies.
The only week the group does not meet is the week between Christmas and New Year’s Day.
Those interested in becoming involved may contact Rasmussen at 920-867-4132.
“If anyone enjoys knitting, crocheting, sewing or doing crafts, come to the hospital Tuesday morning,” Rohloff said. “We would love to have you join us.”