Norfolk, Va. – April 3, 2008 – St. Mary’s Home for Disabled Children’s Auxiliary today announced the appointment of Karen L. Hibbard as the new president of the Auxiliary for St. Mary’s Home and is transitioning from the position of treasurer. Hibbard joined the Auxiliary in September of 2000 and served as treasurer from 2001 to 2008. Previously, she worked for Wachovia Bank for 11 years; serving as a bank manager for nine years and two years as a licensed financial specialist. In 2004, she left Wachovia to become a full-time mother to Gretchen, 8, and Nicholas, 3.
As president of the Auxiliary, Hibbard hopes to build on current successes. “The purpose of the Auxiliary Board has always been to serve the needs of the children of St. Mary’s Home. Over the past several years, our annual fund-raising events have allowed us to support the Home in truly significant ways. As president, my goal is to continue to improve the lives of these very special children by increasing our fund-raising efforts and providing critical support to St. Mary’s,” said Hibbard.
“Not only does the Auxiliary offer significant support to the Home, but they serve another vital area by connecting with the broader community to tell the story of St. Mary’s Home,” said William C. Giermak, CEO.
Additional newly elected board members include: Andi Lawson, recording secretary; Gini Deets, corresponding secretary; Rachel Jiral, historian; Marie Siebeking, treasurer and Jean Hillegass as parliamentarian. Camille Vaughan will hold another term as vice president.
The Auxiliary Board of St. Mary’s is a group of dedicated women that strives to fill specific needs that the Home cannot otherwise meet. Formed in 1950 with 100 charter members, the Auxiliary continues to provide invaluable support exclusively for the Home. In addition to a $100,000 pledge of support for the new facility, the Auxiliary has provide funding for projects that add to the children’s quality of life and continued progress. Recent projects include a sun canopy for the pool, 30 rocking chairs, three evaluative walkers, a specially adapted tricycle, and funding in part for a 6-whellchair accessible shuttle bus.
Established in 1944, St. Mary’s Home is the only pediatric long-term care residential facility of its kind in Virginia for children with severe disabilities. St. Mary’s offers a comprehensive range of residential, medical, therapeutic, educational and recreational services for children from birth to age 21. The staff combines medical care with a gentle touch to create a therapeutic environment for the children with warmth, nurturing and personal attention.
St. Mary’s staff is always eager to provide information about its exceptional care, programs and therapies to civic organizations and clubs. For more details about St. Mary’s, its volunteer program, community partnerships, donations, or for information on scheduling a tour, please call 757-622-2208.