This past December, the Valley Hospital Auxiliary Board marked its 81st year of service, as co-presidents of the Allendale branch—Claudia Sanchez and Lisa Pensa—reflected on the organization’s deep connection to the community and its commitment to supporting the hospital and local families in need.
The Allendale branch of the Valley Hospital Auxiliary plays a key role in the area. Its primary function is to raise funds through volunteer members who organize donation drives and community partnerships. This group supports hospital programs like the Pediatric Emergency Department, the Butterflies Program for families of seriously ill children, and the "No-Sew Blanket" initiative, which provides comforting blankets for Emergency Department patients.
A Shared Commitment to Community
Sanchez, a real estate broker who has lived in Allendale since 2003, and Pensa, also an Allendale resident and a long-time local volunteer, both have deep ties to the community. For Sanchez, joining the Auxiliary is a way to give back to a community that has supported her family for years.
“Living here, you want to give back to the community that your family calls home,” Sanchez explains. “I’ve been involved in several local organizations, like the Allendale Woman's Club, the Allendale Chamber of Commerce, and the Allendale/Saddle River Rotary. It’s important to contribute in as many ways as I can.”
Pensa, who moved to Allendale 23 years ago, shares a similar philosophy. A mother of two, she began volunteering with local recreation sports, the music association, and the PTO before joining the Auxiliary six years ago. She and Sanchez became co-presidents two years ago.
“It felt like the right time,” Pensa notes. “We both wanted to continue the success of the organization.” What felt right was taking on the co-presidency to build on the momentum of the Auxiliary’s growth and bring new ideas forward.
Making a Difference in Small Ways
Under their leadership, along with the other 46 volunteer members, the Allendale Branch Auxiliary has made a meaningful impact. Along with collecting donations for families in need, they launched the "No-Sew Blanket" initiative, which provides handmade blankets to emergency department patients. Volunteers create colorful blankets to offer comfort during stressful visits.
“It’s such a small thing, but it makes a big difference,” Pensa says. “And the best part is, patients get to take them home as a reminder that someone cared.”
The Auxiliary’s fundraising also supports the hospital’s Butterflies Program, which offers financial assistance to families with children battling serious illnesses. This year, the group aims to raise $100,000 for the program. Their efforts also benefit the hospital's Pediatric Emergency Department, which sees a high volume of patients.
Adapting to Change
When Sanchez and Pensa took on their leadership roles, the Auxiliary was adjusting to the pandemic. Like many organizations, it shifted to virtual meetings and scaled-back events. As things have returned to normal, they’ve worked to reinvigorate the group with in-person activities.
“We wanted to get people back together and create more personal connections,” Sanchez shares. “Zoom was necessary during the pandemic, but we’re excited to return to face-to-face meetings and community events.”
This year, during the branch's holiday dinner, the Auxiliary collected gift cards for 20 families in palliative care, helping them shop for loved ones during the holidays. This effort is just one of many ways the group aims to brighten the season for those facing difficult circumstances.
The Power of Local Support
What sets the Valley Hospital Auxiliary apart is its strong connection to the local community. The organization relies on the generosity of local businesses and residents to sustain its mission. Whether collecting donations for fundraising baskets or encouraging members to support each other's businesses, the Auxiliary is built on a cycle of giving.
“We always stay local when we do fundraisers or social events,” Sanchez explains. “It’s important to support the businesses that support us. We encourage people to thank local businesses for their donations, keeping that cycle of giving going.”
Looking Toward the Future
As the Auxiliary looks ahead, Sanchez and Pensa are optimistic. The opening of a new hospital campus in April 2024 has brought new challenges and opportunities.
"The hospital is now a much larger facility," Pensa notes. "We're excited to be a part of this next chapter."
Moving forward, their goals include expanding the Auxiliary’s impact, increasing membership, and raising awareness about its work. One key goal is to improve communication and ensure more people know about the group's mission.
“Our goal is to support the Valley Hospital community in whatever way we can,” Sanchez shares. “We want people to know who we are and what we’re doing, and we’re always looking for new ideas, new members, and new ways to make a difference.”
People can give back by volunteering, donating, attending fundraisers, or supporting local businesses that partner with the hospital.
A True Community Effort
As co-presidents, Sanchez and Pensa’s passion for giving back is at the heart of everything they do. With the support of local businesses, residents, and the amazing membership of volunteers, the Auxiliary is well-positioned to continue its mission of helping others and strengthening the community for years to come.
“We live in a special place,” Sanchez reflects. “Bergen County is an area where people come together to support one another, and I’m proud to be part of that. We all help each other, and that’s what makes this community so unique.”
To learn more about the Valley Hospital Auxiliary or to become a member, visit valleyhealth.com/services/auxiliary.