Cold temperatures didn’t deter the more than 200 people from community from gathering for the annual Light of Love ceremony on Tuesday, December 2, at Florida Hospital Flagler!

The Light of Love program, sponsored by the Volunteer Auxiliary of Florida Hospital Flagler, began in 1989 and has become a holiday tradition. Recognizing that the holiday season is a very special time – a time to remember and honor our friends and loved ones – the Volunteer Auxiliary of Florida Hospital Flagler offers the community a unique way to share your love and friendship.  For a small donation, a light is placed on the Auxiliary’s “Light of Love” tree in honor or memory of the individual of your choice. The tree is located at Florida Hospital Flagler, where all may enjoy its beauty and significance.  A menorah is also on display for those of the Jewish faith.

Approximately 150 Buddy Taylor Middle School students sang several exuberant Christmas songs.  The entire crowd followed the young carolers with a rendition of “Let There Be Peace on Earth” and the large Christmas tree was lighted. Hundreds of tiny blue lights sparkled in the crisp night air, as everyone enjoyed eggnog, punch and cookies.

About the Volunteer Auxiliary of Florida Hospital Flagler

In September 2008, the Volunteer Auxiliary of Florida Hospital Flagler reached a very special milestone; they donated more than 1 million hours of service and $1 million to the Florida Hospital Flagler. Over the past 25 years, volunteers have raised funds for wheelchairs, windows, artwork, special events and medical equipment. In addition to the funds raised for the hospital, they have given more than $60,000 in scholarships to local high school seniors and Daytona Beach Community College students interested in future medical careers.

The Volunteer Auxiliary of Florida Hospital Flagler was organized on May 19, 1980, when 53 residents of Flagler County began to volunteer their time at the Community Hospital of Bunnell and elected officers.  That group of 53 residents grew into what is now nearly 300 active members of the Volunteer Auxiliary of Florida Hospital Flagler.

Volunteers typically spend four to eight hours each week helping in one of the hospital’s departments, such as the Emergency Department, Intensive Care Unit, Women’s Center, Gift Shop, American Cancer Society Resource Center, Nurses’ Station, Visitors’ Desk, etc.  Volunteers of all ages participate in the Volunteer Auxiliary, including approximately 30 high school student volunteers from Flagler/Palm Coast or Matanzas High School.

New members from the community are always welcome and training programs are ongoing. For information on how you can become involved in the Volunteer Auxiliary at Florida Hospital Flagler, please call the Volunteer Office at (386) 586-4234 or click here.