The Festival of Trees was inspired 47 years ago by a group of 15 women from along the Wasatch Front. These women were challenged by Lewis M. Jones, Chairman of the hospital's Men's Endowment board, to identify a way to raise funds for the hospital.
Organized as the Women's Endowment Committee and led by Betty Wells, the group sold tickets to the Ice Capades and dabbled in other projects in an attempt to raise funds. They soon determined they had spent too much time and energy for too little return. They searched for one project they could devote all their efforts on.
That project was inspired when Co-chair Ruth Flint vacationed in Hawaii and attended a Christmas boutique featuring small, decorated Christmas trees, centerpieces and Christmas decorations. The Women's Endowment committee expanded the concept to include full-sized decorated Christmas trees, a gift boutique, and sweet shop.
Well done ladies!!!!
