Cover from 1939 event program
In 1938, Mrs. James T. Cunningham, Association Board member, organized the Junior Auxiliary. The Auxiliary’s mission includes raising money for the Association, providing volunteer services, and interpreting the work of Day Nursery to the community. The Auxiliary immediately launched its fundraising career by bringing the Dartmouth Glee Club to Indianapolis, and organizing a charity dance following the concert. Until 1985, the dance was an annual affair.
The Auxiliary began selling programs at the Indiana State Fair Horse Show in 1946, realizing a percentage of the sales. This was soon augmented with Auxiliary advertising sales and securing sponsors for stake events. By 1956, the Auxiliary assumed full responsibility for the publication and sale of programs.
In 1961, the horse show programs gave way to selling advertising for the “500″ Festival Souvenir Program. This highly successful activity continued until 1981.
In recent years, the primary Auxiliary fundraiser has been a fashion show. In addition, the Auxiliary solicits annual support for the fashion show through a patron’s letter, and, as opportunities arise, undertakes other projects to raise money to support Day Nursery.
Auxiliary volunteer activities at the Day Nursery Centers include classroom projects and vision screenings.
New members, elected by the Auxiliary Membership Committee, provide many hours of service annually during their years of active membership. All new members attend an orientation session where Day Nursery staff make presentations about center activities and routines.
After completing active service, members become associates. Although there are no service requirements for associates, many continue their active support for Day Nursery and participation in Auxiliary events and activities. From an original membership of 23, the Auxiliary now counts over 200 members.
The Auxiliary president and president-elect serve on the Association Board of Directors. The Auxiliary makes an annual contribution to the Association; often the gift is earmarked for special projects.
