History of the Hospital Guild
For more than 70 years, Thayer County Health Services has been fortunate to have the unwavering support of a passionate and dedicated group of volunteers—the Hospital Guild. With over 500 members representing every community in Thayer County, the Guild carries on a proud tradition of service, care, and generosity.
Each year, the Hospital Guild donates between $30,000 and $50,000 to support the health and wellness of our region. These contributions help provide essential equipment, supplies, and materials for the hospital and clinics—ranging from obstetrical training manuals to cutting-edge medical technology that enhances patient care.
Their impact is felt daily, and we are deeply grateful for their continued commitment to our mission.
Things and Stuff
How does the Guild continue to provide such remarkable fundraising and support year after year? It starts with the incredible talents and dedication of its many members. But it doesn’t stop there.
The Hospital Guild also operates “Things and Stuff,” a charming thrift and gift shop located in Hebron. Through the proceeds from the shop—and a variety of other fundraising efforts—the Guild has been able to contribute thousands of dollars annually to Thayer County Health Services. These funds directly support our hospital and clinics, ultimately benefiting patients and residents across every corner of our community.
Local Service by Local people….
Every employee, every department, and every patient at Thayer County Health Services has been positively impacted by the hard work and generosity of the Hospital Guild. Since its formation in 1953, the Guild has remained a vital part of our organization’s success—evolving alongside the hospital while always maintaining its focus on service.
In the early days, Guild members took on hands-on tasks like mending hospital linens—hemming 75 towels in their very first year—reading to patients, and even canning produce for winter use (a remarkable 258 quarts of vegetables were preserved). However, by 1960, with changes in hospital practices such as disposable and pre-sterilized supplies, and food safety guidelines discouraging home-canned goods, the Guild recognized the need to shift its focus.
By 1967, the Guild had taken on a new role: financial support. That year, they hosted a county-wide rummage sale called “Things & Stuff.” What began as a once-a-week event in a donated space above the bank eventually grew into a full-time operation. In 1988, the Guild purchased a storefront on Lincoln Avenue in Hebron, where the “Things & Stuff” shop still operates today. Open four days a week—Wednesday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Saturday from 9 a.m. to noon—the shop is a cornerstone of their fundraising efforts.
Beyond the shop, the Guild organizes bake sales, raffles (including dolls and handmade quilts), and the beloved “Lights of Love” holiday campaign. Members also serve meals at Foundation events such as the annual golf tournament and the community variety show. Support also comes through membership drives, memorial contributions, and past events like Bingo nights, fashion shows, home tours, and calendar sales.
The Guild’s service doesn’t stop at fundraising—they also volunteer at many Thayer County Health Services-sponsored events, including blood drives, discounted lab events, mass flu clinics, and Women’s Health Night.
If you’re interested in volunteering alongside this amazing group, contact Kris Miesner, Projects Committee Chairperson, at 402-200-8461. We’d love to have you join this proud tradition of caring, giving, and community service.
Guild Officers
- President – Carol Krueger
- Vice Presidents – Roseann Wehrbein, Eileen Asche, Cassie Wilbeck and Wanda Yoachim
- Project Chairwomen – Kris Miesner, Helen Boman, Connie O’Hanlon and Phyllis Luehring
- Secretary – Connie O’Hanlon
- Treasurer – Mary Rauner
- Membership Chair – Cassie Wilbeck
Show Your Support – Join The Guild
Membership in the TCHS Hospital Guild is open to everyone—and it’s just $3 to join. Whether you’re looking to volunteer, support a meaningful cause, or connect with others in the community, the Guild offers a wonderful way to make a difference.
For membership information or to learn how to make a donation, please contact Guild President Carol Krueger or Jeremy Pearson at 402-768-4636, or email jpearson@tchsne.org.
Join us in supporting quality healthcare and continuing a proud tradition of service in Thayer County!