Operating under the umbrella of the River Hospital Foundation:
The mission of The Friends is to support River Hospital through fundraising efforts and events, to participate in community projects which promote the hospital’s services and to serve as advocates and ambassadors for River Hospital.
Once upon a time, in the early years of 1990, a small group of community people and hospital employees came together to support their local hospital – then E.J. Noble Hospital. Over the years this small group raised funds with several different fundraisers, large and small, to help the hospital. The most visible event is the annual Polar Bear Dip, which began in 1991, with many successful years of providing a high profile event which brings people to the village every year from as far away as Virginia, Pennsylvania, New Jersey and Connecticut, and raises more money with each succeeding year.
Members of the Friends were among the Concerned Citizens who worked so hard to convince the New York State Department of Health that the river communities needed and wanted a hospital close to home. The Friends group is vital to the community and the hospital we all worked so hard to save.
Like River Hospital, which came close to closure and has been resurrected, the Friends are rejuvenating their organization and want to share the fun with you. Our organization meets regularly to plan our goals and objectives for the funds we raise and we invite you to be a part of our efforts.
An invitation is extended to anyone who would like to join this great group of people who love River Hospital and want to ensure its future in our community. To learn more about the Friends, call or email Karen V.E. Peters at 315-482-5421 or kvpeters@ridgeviewtel.us
Volunteer Dippers are challenged to raise the most funds for the hospital. A minimum registration fee of $100 is required of each dipper to join the ranks of the souls willing to brave the chilly waters of the St. Lawrence River. A pledge form is available for your convenience in collecting pledges. Dippers will be judged by two panels of judges; one to judge costume, one for technique. As in the past, prizes are awarded to the dippers bringing in the most $$$, for the best costume and the best dipping technique.
Call or e-mail to inquire about information on membership, meeting times, products and events:
Karen V.E. Peters
315-482-5421
kvpeters@ridgeviewtel.us