Volunteers played key role in success of sale

Dana College student-athletes a difference maker in raising funds

By Richard Fergola, Dana College Head Wrestling Coach

Posted 09.22.06

Memorial Community Hospital and Health System in Blair is now several steps closer to purchasing new cardiopulmonary equipment for patients, thanks to efforts by volunteers at the 49th Annual MCH Auxiliary Rummage Sale. Thousands of shoppers came to the sale, held Sept. 14 -17 at the Washington County Fairgrounds in Arlington.

The goal of raising $50,000 was exceeded by almost $57,000 in gross sales, according to Ardis Grace, publicity chairperson for the rummage sale. The event attracted people from throughout the region and from at least eight different states.

Grace said volunteers are the heart of this annual event. “We’re still gathering figures, but we know we had more than 400 volunteers assisting with the sale this year. They came from throughout the community, including the Dana College athletes who help set up and tear down for the event. These athletes supply the much needed muscle it takes to organize such a huge event.”

Grace said that throughout the years of hosting the rummage sale, Dana College athletes have been a huge part of its success. “They always help out when needed, and they seem to have a good time doing it,’ Grace said. “The older volunteers are entertained at their antics and so appreciative of the hard work they put in every year.”

According to Grace, the Dana College wrestling, soccer, cheer and dance, basketball and football teams all assisted with some aspect of this year’s sale.
Dana College Head Wrestling Coach Richard Fergola said it is important for his wrestlers to support community efforts. “It’s good for our team to get out in the community and help people out,” Fergola said. “The rummage sale is such a great event for the team to support because proceeds benefit the entire community. We have a great group of young men who are willing and able to assist.”