fifty years of volunteers!

Celebrating the Volunteers at Oklahoma Children’s Hospital

It’s the 50th anniversary of our volunteers charity at Oklahoma Children’s Hospital. Formed as the “Volunteer Auxiliary to Oklahoma Children’s Memorial Hospital” in 1973, it was the first unique 501(c)3 charity dedicated to volunteer and community programs for kids at the hospital. However, our legacy of volunteering reaches all the way back.

“Crippled Children’s Hospital” opened in 1930 with volunteers coordinated by Junior League of Oklahoma City. At that time, weaving was the most popular activity. Archived news clippings show holiday party highlights, fundraising for playrooms and calls for community volunteers as early as the 1930s and 1940s. On Sunday, September 4, 1949, the Oklahoman ran an article about Mrs. Betty Caldwell who learned toys were needed from her husband, Alvalo, a medical student. “Toys sent to the hospital around December 25 wore out in July but the kids who need them are still in the hospital,” she said, explaining how she raised $15, $7 and $5 from different groups to buy toys for all 350 kids. A story that rings true today.

Volunteering is woven into the fabric of care. The Tinker Officers’ Wives Club and other groups offered support from members in the 1950s, just as we rely on corporate and community partners like Spirit Halloween and Bob Moore. A KOCO charity softball game

in 1981 or Girl Scouts decorating Christmas stockings in 1957 feel familiar, as we still engage our community to volunteer, donate and find meaningful ways to support our kids.

This year, we will showcase our legacy of generosity by sharing historical moments and unveiling a 50th anniversary signature project. Stories and memories will help us celebrate the purpose of the Volunteers through the words of those impacted by our people and programs.

Junior League members prepare for a Valentine's Day party for kids at the hospital in 1952

Share your story to OCHgivetokids@ouhealth.com or scan the QR code!