Shriners Children's Chicago Board Chair Appreciates the Opportunity to Serve

As we celebrate 100 years of our healthcare system, the Shriner who leads the Chicago hospital's Board of Governors is humble and appreciative for the opportunity to make a difference.

“I always tell people that I joined Shriners in the late 1970s because it was a natural progression from DeMolay to Blue Lodge through Scottish Rite,” Gary Soblotne said. “However, I became a Shriner in 2000 when I made my first trip to the Chicago Hospital with a patient and saw what we do and how we give children the best possible lives.”

Even as the Indiana man became potentate (the president) of his Shrine Center and joined the hospital board, his favorite “job” is still being a driver, bringing patients to Shriners Children’s locations in Chicago and Ohio for appointments in a volunteer role with Mizpah Shriners.

Soblotne credits the support of Shriners around the world and “leading edge treatment” offered by Shriners Children’s for the healthcare system’s 100 years in a changing healthcare landscape. “By far the most important thing in my mind has been the opportunity to have seen many children grow and prosper under our care.”

It seems he has gotten back even more than he has given in his many years of service. “I have been lucky enough to have chosen a fraternity dedicated to making a difference in this messed up world… Shriners and Shriners Children’s has given me the opportunity to give back in some small way using my limited gifts and talents.”