Treasure Island fundraiser tops $42K for Orleans Community Health

Provided photo: Enjoying an evening of food and fundraising during Treasure Island at White Birch Golf Course are, from left, Jonathon and Cynthia Incho, Patricia and Lance Mark and David and Carol Cook. The annual event benefits Orleans Community Health.

LYNDONVILLE – This year’s Treasure Island on Nov. 4 was a resounding success, with more than 200 guests attending the event at White Birch Golf Course.

The 29th annual event raised more than $42,000, according to Megan Johnson, director of Orleans Community Health Foundation.

A highlight of the evening was paying tribute to the Twig Association, which supported Medina Memorial Hospital for 70 years, but voted in May to disband. Eight former Twig members were recognized for their dedication.

Jeanne Crane, president of Orleans Community Health Foundation and Twig president for many years, spoke about their incredible 70 years of service. Over the years, the Twig Association donated more than $1 million for renovations and purchase of equipment for the hospital, ran the Gift Shop and volunteered throughout the hospital.

A live auction featured items, such as a trip to Myrtle Beach, a day with the Medina Fire Department and ride with Santa in the Parade of Lights and a fall cleanup package donated in memory of Vic Vicnair, a long-time member of the Treasure Island committee, who was the DJ/sound man and worked hard to raise funds for the hospital.

More than 200 items were featured in a silent auction.

Top sponsors were Seaway Insurance, Tiki Bar sponsor; and Jr. Wilson Sportsman’s Club, Buccaneer sponsor.

Johnson spoke to guests about the power of a small, tight-knit community coming together to support the health and well-being of its residents.

“Small communities like ours have something truly special,” she said. “We know our neighbors,  and we care for one another.”

She continued to say, “In recent years we’ve faced unprecedented challenges. From tough financial years and closing services to the Covid-19 pandemic, we’ve encountered obstacles that tested our resilience. However, we are still here, standing strong, growing and thriving. And that’s not just because of the hospital’s efforts. It’s because of the generosity and unwavering support of this remarkable community. It’s thanks to people like you, who understand the importance of having accessible and high-quality healthcare close to home.”

Marc Shurtz, CEO of Orleans Community Health, spoke about the growth of the hospital. Last year had the best year for patient revenue since 2014, and 2023 is on schedule to beat last year, he said.

DJ services for the evening were donated by JT Thomas, and John and Darlene Boardway donated their auctioneering services.

Johnson said they are already looking ahead to another successful event next year on Nov. 2.