Published: October 21, 2026

Estimated reading time: 3 minutes

With a strong history of giving in many ways, TWIGS & Auxiliary for Norton Children’s Hospital continues to build on its decades-long legacy of supporting the mission of Norton Children’s.

What started as two separate organizations — TWIGS (Together With Important Goals Shared), a community-based group founded in 1979, and Auxiliary, primarily a group of physicians’ wives dating back to the 1950s — merged in 2024 to become TWIGS & Auxiliary for Norton Children’s Hospital. The blended organization works toward one goal: supporting Norton Children‘s Hospital patients, their families and staff.

Dee Orendorf, president of TWIGS & Auxiliary, has been a part of the organization for 45 years. She, along with the leadership team of 18 volunteers, oversees the coordination of events, fundraisers and, perhaps their biggest endeavor, operating the gift shop at Norton Women’s & Children’s Hospital.

“The gift shop revenue is our largest source of income funding our donations. The profits raised through the gift shop allow us to give back to all Norton Children’s campuses,” Dee said.

Running the small business that is open 364 days per year (closed only on Christmas) from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. is a major undertaking. TWIGS & Auxiliary volunteers staff the gift shop, working four-hour shifts, along with other Norton Healthcare volunteers who give their time and talent. In addition, three staff members manage the shop’s day-to-day operations.

Significant contributions in the past year alone include a $435,000 lead gift for the David & Carol Tinkle Family Room located in the Norton Children’s Hospital Addison Jo Blair Cancer Care Center and $600,000 in support of the new dialysis center for pediatric patients — a first in Kentucky.

Perhaps the longest running fundraiser comes from students at North Harrison Elementary in Ramsey, Indiana. What started as a read-a-thon in 1989 has evolved to a walk-a-thon with students raising money to support Norton Children’s. Students who raise more than $100 are treated to a field day at Louisville Slugger Field.

In total, TWIGS & Auxiliary has about 100 members — but there is room at the table for more, according to Dee.

“Becoming a member is a great way to give back, and we understand that not everyone has the time or ability to give hours of services. So, we encourage participation that is tailored to each member,” she said.