Jane Hedequist Named 1995 Outstanding Sustainer
The Junior League of Spokane announced the selection of the 1995 Outstanding Sustainer at its annual holiday luncheon Friday at the Crescent Court. This year’s recipient, Jane Hedequist, has volunteered with more than 20 community agencies in Spokane.
The award is given to a sustaining Junior League member for outstanding contributions to the community through volunteerism.
“Jane exemplifies the league’s purpose through her commitment to women and volunteerism in the Spokane community,” said Candi Morton Gilchrist, Junior League president. “Her strength and quiet determination to improve the quality of life for others is an inspiration to us all.”
Hedequist serves as a board member for Catholic Foundation of Spokane, Catholic Cemeteries of Spokane, Holy Family Hospital Foundation and Immaculate Heart Retreat House. She is also a member of the Little Spokane River Citizens Advisory Board and the Ronald McDonald House Endowment Board of Trustees.
“Jane puts her efforts into things she is passionate about,” said Trish McFarland, former director of Ronald McDonald House. “Her volunteer life has resulted in concrete improvements in the Spokane community. She quietly leads others, always allowing them to show their talents.”
Hedequist was involved in fund-raising efforts over four years that resulted in the construction of Ronald McDonald House, including putting on a shower that furnished the kitchen cupboards. She continued to serve as house operations chairwoman and then became president, serving from 1989-91.
An arbor was built in Hedequist’s honor at Ronald McDonald House to provide shade and respite for families staying there while they have a sick child in the hospital.
Called Jane’s Arbor, it was built through donations from hundreds of people who wished to honor Jane’s commitment, said McFarland. “It epitomizes Jane’s calm serenity.”
After being diagnosed with breast cancer in 1989, Hedequist expanded her volunteerism to include agencies concerned with women’s health issues. She is serving on the Breast Cancer Survivors Task Force, Holy Family National Cancer Survivors Committee, and Women’s Health Center Advisory Board.
While her cancer was in remission, Hedequist joined with other breast cancer survivors to form the breast cancer task force. Using grant monies from Women Helping Women, the task force produced a video and journal which they hope to distribute through doctors’ offices, giving women a list of local resources and questions they should ask themselves and their doctors.
“Jane’s life is a testament to community commitment and the difference one woman can make in the lives of thousands,” said Toni Robideaux, president-elect of Ronald McDonald House and co-member of the task force. “She provided the inspiration for the group of cancer survivors and area-wide health care professionals to form the task force.”
An active member in the Junior League from 1969-1979, Hedequist strengthened her leadership and organizational skills by chairing many committees including: Rummage Sale Auction, 1979 Golf Committee and Advisory Planning.
Hedequist was also instrumental in the 1975 development of the Junior League’s Alcohol Education and Awareness Committee which was implemented in District 81 and Mead School Districts.