The Hospital Auxiliary was organized a month prior to the opening of the Hospital in 1951. Primary activities of the Auxiliary include the operation of a Gift Shop and Thrift Shop along with countless hours donated monitoring the information desk, secretarial and reception support in various departments. All proceeds generated by the Auxiliary are in turn donated to the Foundation to support the San Gorgonio Memorial Hospital. The Hospital considers the Auxiliary members important members of the Hospital team.
Volunteers feel it a privilege to serve in the special environment of healthcare.
From 1951 to 1981 - performed routine tasks such as serving as the visitor's desk, making tray favors and having an occasional fundraiser. They also operated a small showcase in the lobby with patient necessities such as combs, stationary, snacks, etc. In 1982 the Thrift Shop was opened the Quonset Hut on the northwest corner of the hospital campus. In July 1998 the Thrift Shop moved to a 5,000 square foot store front in the Stagecoach Plaza at 3453 West Ramsey in Banning. Profits from all of the Auxiliary activities have been used to buy various hospital equipment and furniture.