The LaCrosse Auxiliary was established with a heartfelt commitment to serving the community by organizing events, spearheading fundraising efforts, and coordinating volunteer activities. Our mission has always been to make a meaningful impact.

Originally founded in 1952 as the Women's Auxiliary of St. Francis Hospital, the organization was officially chartered by the American Hospital Association (AHA) in 1953. A total of 105 women signed the charter, marking the beginning of a legacy of service and dedication.

One of the Auxiliary's very first projects was the opening of the Gift Shoppe in 1952. Initially located in St. Ann's building, the Gift Shoppe later moved to a space off the lobby of the St. Francis Building entrance, where it remained for several decades. In 2017, the Gift Shoppe underwent a significant remodel to include medical supplies alongside a selection of thoughtful gift items, ensuring it continued to meet the evolving needs of the community.

For many years, fundraising was at the heart of the Auxiliary’s work to support St. Francis Hospital. One of the earliest initiatives, the Christmas Sale, launched on November 29, 1952, with proceeds going toward the purchase of a public address system for the hospital. In 1953, the organization introduced the Charity Ball, which later transitioned into the Mardi Gras celebration in 1977. That same year, a Memorial Fund was established in honor of charter member Emma Anderson Murphy, wife of Anthony Murphy, a former city health officer. Initially, the fund supported leukemia patients in need but gradually evolved into a general memorial fund providing assistance for "needy patients accounts." Today, this initiative continues under the name "Season of Light."

Our unwavering dedication to community engagement has not only shaped our identity but also strengthened the bonds we share with those we serve. We take immense pride in our rich history and the relationships we have nurtured over the decades, as we continue striving to make a difference in LaCrosse and beyond.