Ida Jane Baker of Vienna and Cambridge, recently elected president of the Dorchester General Hospital Auxiliary, has made a career out of service to others.
“One could say I’ve been a volunteer my entire career, “says Mrs. Baker, who has been an active member of the Auxiliary for over five decades. “I get a great deal of satisfaction in serving my community and am honored to lead such a worthy organization. I am happy to serve as President, and especially look forward to working with my fellow board members who have stepped up to serve along with me. Together, I know we can get a great deal accomplished.”
A graduate of Cambridge High School, Mrs. Baker has spent her life serving as a volunteer in the Dorchester County community. In addition to her service with the Auxiliary, she was a founding member of the Dorchester General Hospital Foundation and has served as its President since 1993. She is also a past member of the DGH Board of Directors, having been elected for three terms for 12 total years of service. She is a member of Christ Church in Cambridge and has served in various leadership positions throughout the parish. She is a longtime member of the Cambridge Yacht Club, former board member and Treasurer among other offices of the Dorchester Arts Center, a founding member of the Ward Museum, life member of the DCHS and volunteer in numerous other civic organizations.
“Volunteers like Ida Jane are truly the backbone of our organization and we could not be more grateful for her dedication and service,” said Patti Willis, Senior Vice President for External Relations and Development for Shore Health System. “Our community is blessed to have her and the example of service that she provides.”
Married for 62 years to Russell Baker, Jr., she and her husband raised two children while actively engaged in life on a farm, a life that also allowed her to fully engage in community service.
The Dorchester General Hospital Auxiliary has been in existence since 1920 and, when initially formed, was made up of representatives from each church in Cambridge. Today, the Auxiliary has 252 members, which include active, inactive and honorary members. The Auxiliary’s fundraising efforts and proceeds from sales at the Hospitality Gift Shop and the Robin Hood Shop have been used to support programs and services provided at Dorchester General Hospital.
Numerous volunteer opportunities are available with the Auxiliary. They include blood pressure screenings, serving at the Hospitality Shop, Robin Hood Shop or DGH Information Desk or working with the Surgical Hostess program. For more information about volunteer opportunities with the Dorchester General Hospital Auxiliary, call 410-228-5511 ext.8455, contact any member of the Auxiliary and visit www.shorehealth.org/volunteers/dgh-aux.shtml.