Angie Reinoehl/PCT Heart of America CEO Erik Christiansen addressed the crowd at the Heart of America Medical Center on Thursday, Nov. 30.

The holiday season is a great time for giving and sharing, said Laurie Odden, co-chair of the Heart of America Auxiliary, at the 31st annual Heart of America Auxiliary Tree of Giving ceremony.

The ceremony was held on Thursday, Nov. 30, at the Heart of America Medical Center (HAMC) in Rugby.

Odden said funds raised from this project will be contributed to the ongoing needs at the Heart of America Medical Center. Last year’s funds benefited the HAMC infusion suite, 3D mammography, HAMC hospice, acute care, Haaland Estates and the Haaland Estate’s recent kitchen remodel.

During the ceremony the Village Arts children’s choir under the direction of Jill Roberts performed.

Erik Christiansen, HAMC CEO, read a verse from the Bible about giving bountifully and thanked the auxiliary and those who supported the fundraiser.

“It is so much more than money. It is the care, the joy, the energy, the love that comes from this group. They work diligently and it’s one of the best meetings I get to go to, not just because they give me food but because they always exude joy and just such a wonderful spirit – that is the spirit we want to have here at Heart of America,” said Christiansen.

Chaplain Pastor Gary Dorn provided a prayer, followed by memorial readers Bev Paul and Marlene Schaan.

The program wrapped up with another song from the Village Arts children’s choir and the lighting of the tree.