Foundation

Advisory Board of Silver Cross Hospital

In 1891, the same year Silver Cross Hospital was incorporated, the board of trustees chose 15 women from the membership of the four existing King’s Daughters Circles to form a Board of Lady Managers. The name was later changed to the Advisory Board.  These ladies kept an eye on hospital needs and arranged for all refurbishing and beautifying there. Since this had to be paid for, they held all manner of fundraisers, including cake walks, card parties, concerts, horse shows and theater parties. They also worked with the Silver Cross Nursing School such as providing monthly teas and scholarships for the students as well as many other activities.  As a more permanent means of raising funds, the Encore Shop was opened on November 1, 1961.

As then, this resale shop still relies on the donation of new and used clothing and merchandise. It is presently located on Walnut Street just north of the hospital’s emergency room and is open from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. on Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday and the first Saturday of each month. The antique sale held each February,

During the past 5 years, the Advisory Board has donated $256,000 for equipment to be used in the hospital. Recently, the 3-year pledge to fund X-ray equipment for the Emergency Department was completed in 2½ years. Donations are welcome and can be dropped off on the days the shop is open. For more information, call Volunteer Services at 815-740-7117.