Friends of Emerson Health
Formerly known as the Auxiliary of Emerson Health, our organization is honored to have celebrated 100 years of advancing and enhancing the patient experience at Emerson Health.
From raising awareness about our services to planning educational and fundraising events, the Friends positively impact our health system and community.
Our Work
Upcoming Fundraising Events
Friends Funding by the Numbers
- $390,000: Transforming Health Campaign
- $91,113: Birthing Center
- $108,031: Pediatric Care
- $43,175: Staff Education and Retention
- $49,219 Behavioral Health
- $87,000: Other Projects
- Over $768,538 in grant programs funded between 2021 and 2026
The Giving Circle
The Friends Giving Circle celebrates those donors who make a gift of $100 or more. We understand that not everyone has the time to join a committee, but still want to make a difference.
Your voice. Your community. Your impact.
Save the Date!
Tree of Lights – Illuminating Hope and Heroes Remembering Those We Love
- Who lights up your life? Donate by purchasing a Star or Light Tribute in memory or honor of someone special
- Donations for Stars and Lights will be accepted through December 31, 2026
EmerSong, an a cappella Festival Supporting Behavioral & Mental Health Services
- Saturday, April 3, 2026 showtimes: 3:00 and 7:00 PM
- 51 Walden Performing Arts Center, Concord, MA
- Tickets are $35 and available starting in mid-January
- Interested in becoming a Friend of EmerSong or a business sponsor, contact the Friend’s Liaison at 978-287-3084
Teddy Bear Stuffing Party
- A Saturday in April from 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM
- Haartz Corporation, 87 Hayward Road, Acton, MA
- Given to our pediatric patients, handcrafted teddy bears have been a signature of the Friends for years. Join us for a morning of stuffing and sewing these precious bears for Emerson’s smallest patients
- Registration is required. More details to come
Annual Golf Tournament
- Thursday, September 17, 2026
- Charter Oak Country Club, Hudson, MA
- Your strokes support our folks! Participants will enjoy an outstanding round of golf, excellent food and the personal satisfaction of knowing their day of fun at Charter Oak will have a direct and positive impact on the quality of care at Emerson Health
- For sponsorship information, click HERE and contact Friends Liaison at 978-287-3084
- Thank you to our 2025 golf sponsors
Past Events Sponsored by The Friends
Friends of Emerson Health Leadership
The 2025/2026 Friends of Emerson Health Board
Officers
President: Julie Viola
President-elect: Holly Bernene
Secretary: Irene Todd
Treasurer: Diane Taubner-Randall
Past President: Liza Carey
Board Members
Leslie Bergman
Elizabeth Berk
Jojo Boynton
Denise Haartz
Lori Hick
Jeanne Jarosz
Betty Ann Killian
Karen McCarthy
Karen H. McGinn
Alison Millerick
Kristen Rivard
Heather Swartwood
Ex-Officio Members
Karl Kussin — VP of Development & Chief Philanthropy Officer, Emerson Health
Christine Schuster, RN, MBA — CEO & President, Emerson Health
Director of Friends Engagement
Amy Caggiano — Emerson Health
Contact Us
Contact the Friends of Emerson Health at 978-287-3019
Follow the Friends of Emerson Health on Facebook and Instagram for updates, photos, and member news @emersonfriends
Volunteer with the Friends
Volunteering with the Friends of Emerson Health is fulfilling and creates a sense of community and connection, allowing individuals to make a positive impact on the lives of others. The Friends’ mission is to enhance the patient experience and by getting involved you’re supporting those in need and helping to keep our community healthy.