By Darla Stover
Whenever I meet someone and I tell them that I work at the Ronald McDonald House, inevitably they hug me, thank me, give me pop tabs, or give me a check. Most will share a personal story about a family member, friend or co-worker who has stayed at the Ronald McDonald House. In some way, everyone has been touched by the House.
If you spent a day at the Ronald McDonald House, you would be amazed at the generosity of the schools, businesses, groups and individuals. Without each and every one of them, we could not keep the Ronald McDonald House operating. We lean on many groups of volunteers to help landscape, move furniture into the new wing, re-stock 42 new rooms, paint, lay flooring, build a playground, and many other tasks that need to be done. These do not include the daily tasks performed by our housewarmers, kitchen coordinators and special event volunteers.
RMHC business partners give so graciously by allowing their employees to volunteer time at the House. In addition, many adopt rooms, special events, sponsor rooms. Another way corporations provide support is by hosting fundraisers to benefit the families at our home-away-from-home.
Ronald McDonald House Charities of Central Ohio has over 75 individuals that run the Columbus Marathon/Half Marathon, climb Mt. Rainier and participate in the Ironman competition in Mexico while at the same time fundraising for families at the Ronald McDonald House. Community festivals and 5Ks in the city benefit the Ronald McDonald House, and our volunteers and staff have a great time working at the events which will in turn benefit our families. For all of this support, we are grateful.