WINNEMUCCA - Volunteers with the Poke and Peek Thrift Shop say they could not be successful without the generosity of the Humboldt County community.
"We thank the people for their contributions," said Poke and Peek Vice Chairman Joe Gough, who helps manage the second-hand store located at 3200 Bengochea Circle in Sage Heights. "It's this community's thoughtfulness that allows us to operate a quality thrift shop."
The Humboldt Hospital Auxiliary, one of Humboldt County's longest standing and most respected volunteer organizations, has been organized for more than 40 years, with volunteers donating thousands of hours of their time and more than $2 million to Humboldt General Hospital.
That money has paid for an extensive array of needed equipment and supplies at the 118 E. Haskell Street facility, including everything from partial funding for a long-hauler ambulance that transports patients to Reno, to one of the group's most recent donations: four LUCAS chest compression devices designed to deliver uninterrupted chest compressions at a consistent rate and depth to facilitate the return of spontaneous circulation to the heart.
The group also just ordered two large recliners for the Harmony Manor long-term care facility. "We just wanted to do something that would help our residents feel more comfortable," explained Gough.
In fact, providing comfort through upgraded health care might just sum up the mission of the Humboldt Hospital Auxiliary.
"We want to be supportive of the hospital as the hospital supports our community," said Gough. "Together, we believe we have done and will continue to do great things."
Gough said the key to the Poke's success is a combination of community and volunteer support.
"We just can't thank the community enough for contributing to our operation and for buying from the Poke & Peek," said Gough. "It really does make Winnemucca and Humboldt County a better place."
As to volunteers, Gough said the auxiliary is always on the lookout for new partners in the work.
"We need people who want to join an exceptional group, who care about their community, who want to share their talents for the greater good," he said. "Being a member really is its own reward."
The auxiliary, whose members are known by their pink jackets, serve as the fundraising arm of Humboldt General Hospital.
Men, women and youth volunteer their time at the group's main funding source, the Poke and Peek Thrift Shop, where they sort, price, display and sell clothing, toys, books and household items. Additionally, volunteers cashier at the shop, test electrical equipment and help out with any other special events or promotions.
Volunteers at Humboldt General Hospital provide much-needed services to the various departments.
Volunteer opportunities range from a few hours a month to many hours a week.
"We have an opportunity for everyone," said Poke and Peek Chairman Joe McIntyre. "Each member's contribution helps the Auxiliary accomplish great things. I know that other members of the community will enjoy being part of that effort."
McIntyre added, "Whether you can donate one hour a month or two hours a week, we believe this is a cause worthy of your time; this is a great way to give something back to the community."
For more information on volunteering, please call Humboldt Hospital Auxiliary Poke and Peek Chairman Joe McIntyre at (775) 455-5115.
The Poke and Peek Thrift Shop is open from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Wednesdays and from noon to 4 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays. Donations are gladly accepted during the store's hours of operation. A donation drop-box is also located to the west of the store entrance for after-hour donations.
For more information, please call the Poke & Peek Thrift Shop at (775) 623-2076.
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