Family News - Ronald McDonald House Charities of Greater ...
Family News - Ronald McDonald House Charities of Greater ...
Family News - Ronald McDonald House Charities of Greater ...
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Summer Edition 2010<br />
Ro n a l d McDo n a l d Ho u s e <strong>Charities</strong> o f Gre a t e r Ci n c i n n a t i<br />
<strong>Family</strong> <strong>News</strong><br />
An Expression <strong>of</strong> Gratitude From Raylee’s<br />
Aunt Barbara<br />
Five-year-old Raylee Chapman had suffered<br />
with a seizure disorder his entire life. His only<br />
hope <strong>of</strong> ever being seizure-free was at Cincinnati<br />
Children’s Hospital Medical Center. Alone and<br />
scared, Raylee’s mom, Kim, drove five hours<br />
from their home in southern West Virginia – with<br />
Raylee slipping away hour by hour – so that Raylee<br />
could have life-saving brain surgery.<br />
“We immediately felt that we were in a<br />
safe place to handle the emotional climb<br />
that we were about to make.”<br />
Kim’s aunt, Barbara Deem, flew to Cincinnati<br />
Children’s to be with Kim and Raylee. Barbara<br />
says, “The doctors had already told Kim to prepare<br />
herself for the possibility that she may lose her<br />
only son.” They were all tired and scared. But,<br />
thankfully, there was a room at <strong>Ronald</strong> <strong>McDonald</strong><br />
<strong>House</strong> – right across the street from the hospital.<br />
“The doors were opened and we were given a<br />
room right on the first floor,” explains Barbara.<br />
“The staff was so warm and friendly that we<br />
immediately felt that we were in a safe place to<br />
handle the emotional climb that we were about<br />
to make.”<br />
Both Kim and Barbara felt welcomed, supported<br />
and cared for as Raylee underwent his life-saving<br />
surgery and began his slow, challenging climb to<br />
recovery. “Everywhere we were in the <strong>House</strong> we<br />
were greeted with smiles,” says Barbara. “The<br />
<strong>House</strong> was always clean and bright and comforting.<br />
There is a wonderful mix <strong>of</strong> utility, function and<br />
peace in all corners <strong>of</strong> the <strong>House</strong>.”<br />
The outpouring <strong>of</strong> generosity and genuine care<br />
meant so much. Barbara marvels, “To know that<br />
people who may never know our names or our<br />
story had already paved the way for us to be taken<br />
care <strong>of</strong> was quite overwhelming.” The care and<br />
services provided by <strong>Ronald</strong> <strong>McDonald</strong> <strong>House</strong> –<br />
through the support <strong>of</strong> our caring volunteers and<br />
Raylee went to surgery clutching his <strong>Ronald</strong> <strong>McDonald</strong> doll.<br />
“So very many willing, precious people<br />
made a seemingly impossible crisis<br />
in our family bearable.”<br />
generous donors – made one <strong>of</strong> life’s most terrifying<br />
moments manageable. “So very many willing, precious<br />
people made a seemingly impossible crisis in our family<br />
bearable, just by being there when we needed them,”<br />
says Barbara. “To have a clean bed and a shower, a hot<br />
meal (usually eaten at midnight when we came over<br />
from the hospital) and<br />
even the simple needs<br />
like new batteries for<br />
our camera – these<br />
comforts strengthened<br />
us day by day.”<br />
Barbara insists, “We<br />
are truly humbled and<br />
thankful. Kim and I<br />
will never forget the love Raylee is all smiles<br />
that sustained us in our<br />
Cincinnati home.” And, most importantly, says Barbara,<br />
“Raylee had a successful surgery and has been given a<br />
second chance at life!”<br />
“Raylee had a successful surgery and has<br />
been given a second chance at life!”<br />
To see more <strong>of</strong> Raylee’s incredible journey, please<br />
visit our website at www.RMHcincinnati.org .<br />
The Carol Ann and Ralph V. Haile, Jr./U.S. Bank Foundation<br />
Provides Wheelchair-Accessible Vehicle ................................ 2<br />
La-Z-Boy Champions RMHC ............................................. 2<br />
Duke Energy Spring Spruce-Up ........................................... 3<br />
RMHC on Facebook and Twitter ......................................... 3<br />
Adopt a Room – Make a Difference...................................... 4<br />
Cincinnati Children’s makes U.S. <strong>News</strong><br />
& World Report’s Honor Roll .............................................. 4<br />
48 By 48: Drew Johnson Shares His Mission<br />
With <strong>Ronald</strong> <strong>McDonald</strong> <strong>House</strong> ........................................... 5<br />
Red Tie Gala ........................................................................ 5<br />
Pillars <strong>of</strong> the <strong>House</strong>............................................................... 6<br />
A Volunteer’s Legacy - Planned Giving ................................. 6<br />
Notes from our Executive Director....................................... 7<br />
Make Gift Giving Easy.......................................................... 7<br />
Pop Tabs from former guest Jeremy ...................................... 8<br />
Save the Date......................................................................... 8<br />
Our Mission:<br />
<strong>Ronald</strong> <strong>McDonald</strong> <strong>House</strong> provides an<br />
affordable “home away from home”<br />
to families and their children seeking<br />
medical treatment at Cincinnati<br />
Children’s Hospital Medical Center.<br />
Our Vision:<br />
To <strong>of</strong>fer all the comforts <strong>of</strong> home to<br />
every family with a hospitalized child.
2<br />
Summer Edition<br />
2009 Friends <strong>of</strong> the <strong>House</strong><br />
<strong>Ronald</strong> <strong>McDonald</strong> <strong>House</strong> is fortunate to<br />
receive annual cash donations and donated<br />
products and services from very generous<br />
corporations.<br />
Champion: $25,000 +<br />
The Coca-Cola Company<br />
Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center<br />
DSS Installations<br />
Ideopia<br />
La-Z-Boy Furniture<br />
<strong>McDonald</strong>’s Cooperative <strong>of</strong> <strong>Greater</strong> Cincinnati<br />
PNC Bank<br />
Procter & Gamble<br />
Benefactor: $10,000 - $24,999<br />
Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield<br />
Bonus Building Care<br />
The Cincinnati Enquirer<br />
The Cincinnati Mine Machinery Co.<br />
Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Gardens<br />
Dr Pepper Snapple Group<br />
Duke Energy<br />
Empower Aviation Air Charters<br />
Frost Brown Todd, LLC<br />
Hyde Park Landscaping<br />
Klosterman Baking Company<br />
Kroger Co.<br />
Louis Trauth Dairy<br />
Macy’s, Inc.<br />
Messer Construction Company<br />
Neyra Industries, Inc.<br />
On Your Feet, LLC<br />
Richard Goettle, Inc.<br />
Rough Greenhouses<br />
Standard Textile, Inc.<br />
Partner: $2,500 - $9,999<br />
Accent on Cincinnati<br />
American Contracting Services<br />
Anneken, Huey & Moser<br />
APEX 360<br />
Bob-Nan Ventures, Inc.<br />
Brand Source<br />
BrownCOW Technology, Ltd.<br />
Bryan W. Stephens CPA<br />
Camargo Rental<br />
CCHMC - Colorectal Center for Children<br />
CCHMC - Department <strong>of</strong> Otolaryngology<br />
CCHMC - Department <strong>of</strong> Radiology<br />
CCHMC - The Heart Institute<br />
Chastang’s Tile & Marble, LLC<br />
Chemed Corporation<br />
Cincinnati Bell<br />
Cincinnati International Wine Festival, Inc.<br />
Clear Channel Cincinnati<br />
Denver Ticket Company<br />
Dillard’s<br />
EXEL<br />
E-Z-Go<br />
Fifth Third Bank<br />
Gastro Consultants <strong>of</strong> <strong>Greater</strong> Cincinnati<br />
GBBN Architects<br />
Goodwin Lighting Services<br />
Great American Insurance - Bond Division<br />
Great American Insurance Co.<br />
- Property & Inland Marine Division<br />
<strong>Greater</strong> Cincinnati Marine<br />
HDR Engineering, Inc.<br />
Heidelberg Distributing Co.<br />
Innergreen<br />
John R. Jurgensen Company<br />
Johnson Investment Counsel, Inc.<br />
Keating, Muething & Klekamp<br />
Ken’s Beverage, Inc.<br />
Kenwood Country Club<br />
Kilroy Restaurants, Inc.<br />
Krombholz Jewelers<br />
Links Unlimited, Inc.<br />
Continued on page 3<br />
The Carol Ann and Ralph V. Haile, Jr.<br />
/ U.S. Bank Foundation Provides<br />
Wheelchair-Accessible Vehicle<br />
Macey and her mom, Heather<br />
Since many <strong>of</strong> our families are without a car during<br />
their stay with us, we are fortunate to be able to<br />
provide shuttle services to and from the hospital,<br />
area grocery stores and retailers.<br />
<strong>Ronald</strong> <strong>McDonald</strong> <strong>House</strong> guest families have<br />
a brand new mode <strong>of</strong> transportation. The Carol<br />
Ann and Ralph V. Haile, Jr. / U.S. Bank Foundation<br />
recently funded the purchase <strong>of</strong> a new wheelchairaccessible<br />
vehicle for <strong>Ronald</strong> <strong>McDonald</strong> <strong>House</strong>.<br />
Macey Powell and her mother, Heather, <strong>of</strong><br />
Somerset, Kentucky, were among the first<br />
passengers to ride in this new vehicle.<br />
In response to this wonderful donation, Macey<br />
simply said, “Thank you, The Carol Ann and<br />
Ralph V. Haile, Jr. / U.S. Bank Foundation.”<br />
Friends <strong>of</strong> the <strong>House</strong> Spotlight La-Z-Boy Champions RMHC<br />
A friendly face, a home-cooked meal, a comfortable bed, a hot shower and a safe<br />
place to rest and rejuvenate are all things that we sometimes take for granted unless<br />
we no longer have immediate access to them. Thanks to La-Z-Boy and other generous<br />
supporters, our <strong>House</strong> provides guest families with all the amenities <strong>of</strong> home when<br />
they find themselves in an unfamiliar city seeking the best medical treatment for their<br />
children. La-Z-Boy furnishings make our shared living areas so welcoming with plenty<br />
<strong>of</strong> cozy spaces just perfect for curling up with a child for a movie or story time. Our<br />
guest families love retiring to one <strong>of</strong> these cozy s<strong>of</strong>as after a long day at the hospital.<br />
Melissa reads a bed time story to daughter Alexis<br />
Our <strong>House</strong> has received more than $25,000 in<br />
furniture donations, as well as deep discounts<br />
on items purchased from La-Z-Boy, making<br />
them one <strong>of</strong> our Champions. We would like to<br />
take this opportunity to recognize La-Z-Boy<br />
Vice President Chuck Hausfeld and his team<br />
for their compassion, generosity and superior<br />
customer service. We are so grateful for our<br />
partnership with La-Z-Boy. Chuck and his<br />
team continue to go above and beyond –<br />
they have furnished a majority <strong>of</strong> the rooms<br />
in our <strong>House</strong> with La-Z-Boy’s high quality,<br />
extremely comfortable furniture and have<br />
even encouraged their customers to give<br />
to Cincinnati’s <strong>Ronald</strong> <strong>McDonald</strong> <strong>House</strong>.<br />
<strong>Ronald</strong> <strong>McDonald</strong> <strong>House</strong> is grateful to La-<br />
Z-Boy and all <strong>of</strong> our Friends <strong>of</strong> the <strong>House</strong>. To find out how your company<br />
can become a Friend <strong>of</strong> the <strong>House</strong>, please visit www.RMHcincinnati.org or contact<br />
Development Director Jill Miller at JMiller@RM<strong>House</strong>.org .
Summer 2010<br />
Duke Energy Spring Spruce-Up<br />
Duke Energy Regional President Julie Janson rolled up her sleeves<br />
alongside her staff and helped make some needed improvements to the<br />
outdoor play garden at <strong>Ronald</strong> <strong>McDonald</strong> <strong>House</strong> in Avondale. The Duke<br />
team was busy with spring cleaning and painting, planting shrubbery and<br />
flowers and power-washing the entire play area. Duke also purchased and<br />
installed two brand new play sets.<br />
Duke Energy’s efforts are part <strong>of</strong><br />
the company’s Volunteers In Action<br />
Program, a grass-roots community<br />
service effort that encourages<br />
and promotes giving back to the<br />
communities where its employees<br />
and retirees live and work.<br />
“<strong>Ronald</strong> <strong>McDonald</strong> <strong>House</strong> is such<br />
a comfort for families who come to<br />
Cincinnati seeking care for their<br />
critically ill children,” Janson said.<br />
“Whether the child is in the hospital<br />
or seeking out-patient care, <strong>Ronald</strong><br />
<strong>McDonald</strong> <strong>House</strong> is a supportive<br />
‘home away from home’ for the<br />
entire family during difficult times.<br />
Duke Energy is happy to lend a<br />
hand to ensure the <strong>House</strong> remains a<br />
welcoming home when families need it most.”<br />
Sue Elsbach Kozik<br />
I’m not a c<strong>of</strong>fee drinker, so I was always very grateful<br />
to have the chocolate milk cartons in the fridge : )<br />
Chrissy Davis<br />
Trauth Dairy, thank you from a New Zealand family<br />
who used the milk products donated. It contributes to<br />
making this <strong>House</strong> a “home away from home.” From<br />
milk for my c<strong>of</strong>fee to chocolate milk for the kids, it<br />
was nice to have it on hand.<br />
Thank you!!!!<br />
Adriaan and Chance enjoy the new playset<br />
To find out how you can volunteer to help <strong>Ronald</strong> <strong>McDonald</strong> <strong>House</strong>,<br />
visit www.RMHcincinnati.org or contact Coordinator <strong>of</strong> Volunteer Services<br />
Stephanie Crellin at SCrellin@RM<strong>House</strong>.org .<br />
See what people are saying about RMHC on Facebook<br />
<strong>Ronald</strong> <strong>McDonald</strong> <strong>House</strong> <strong>Charities</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Greater</strong> Cincinnati<br />
Got milk? Thanks to our generous in-kind donors at Trauth Dairy, the fridge<br />
at Cincinnati’s <strong>Ronald</strong> <strong>McDonald</strong> <strong>House</strong> is always well stocked with essential<br />
dairy items. If your corporation would like to become an in-kind donor,<br />
contact RMHC Development Director Jill Miller at JMiller@RMHhouse.org.<br />
Heather Powell<br />
So generous. Thanks for all you do. My daughter<br />
loves chocolate milk and it was one less thing to worry<br />
about. RMH has done so much for our family. Thank<br />
you to all its donors.<br />
Johnna Bowling<br />
Thanks so much for everything. You took us in and<br />
welcomed us as your family. The staff and everyone<br />
there was such a blessing to our family, thanks for<br />
being there. Couldn’t have done it without you.<br />
2009 Friends <strong>of</strong> the <strong>House</strong><br />
Partner: $2,500 - $9,999<br />
-continued<br />
Lisa A. Woods Custom Draperies<br />
M&M Restaurant Supply<br />
MCF Advisors, LLC<br />
Medicity, Inc.<br />
Middletown Journal<br />
Nature’s Flowers<br />
Newport Aquarium<br />
Patheon Pharmaceuticals, Inc.<br />
Robert C. Rhein Interests, Inc.<br />
Schiff, Kreidler-Shell, Inc.<br />
Stamp Your Art Out<br />
Studio+Z Films<br />
USA Today - Cincinnati<br />
Valenti Salon<br />
Hal Welge Building Contractor, Inc.<br />
Western & Southern Financial Group<br />
Wood, Herron & Evans, LLP<br />
Supporter: $1000 - $2,499<br />
Adrian Durban Florist<br />
Aeropostale<br />
Altrua Marketing Designs<br />
Archway’s Hebron, LLC<br />
Arnold Printing<br />
Ashley Ward<br />
BEAT Personal Training<br />
Best Buy Store #617<br />
burton + Burton<br />
Cassidy Turley<br />
CCHMC - Division <strong>of</strong> Hematology and Oncology<br />
Cincinnati Sportservice<br />
Double Arch Management, Inc.<br />
DRS Environmental Systems Co.<br />
dunnhumbyUSA<br />
The Energy Consultants, Inc.<br />
Fischer Homes<br />
GoldenT, Inc.<br />
Graf & Stiebel<br />
Harland Financial Solutions<br />
Hubert Company<br />
KDM P.O.P. Solutions Group<br />
Steven Kleeman, LLC<br />
Kopco Graphics<br />
LambWeston<br />
Lautman Maska Neill & Co. Inc<br />
Libby Perszyk Kathman<br />
Lyondell Bassell<br />
Magee’s Express, Inc.<br />
Market Strategies<br />
Mason, Schilling & Mason Co, LPA<br />
Maxim Crane Works, L.P.<br />
MBA, Inc.<br />
<strong>McDonald</strong>’s Corporation Regional Office<br />
Medical Communication Consultants<br />
Mercedes-Benz <strong>of</strong> Cincinnati<br />
Mercy Healthplex - Anderson<br />
Miller-Valentine Group<br />
Monti Incorporated<br />
Neat, Redpath & Spaeth<br />
Wealth Management Group / Merrill Lynch<br />
Neyer Plumbing<br />
Noday Restaurants<br />
Pinnacle Environmental Consultants, Inc.<br />
Pomeroy IT Solutions<br />
Roberto Osona Photography<br />
Rumpke Consolidated Companies, Inc.<br />
Schwan’s Food<br />
Scripps Networks Interactive<br />
Skyline Chili, Inc.<br />
UBS Financial Services<br />
Union Central Insurance & Investments<br />
US Bank<br />
US Bank Arena<br />
Wal-Mart Stores - Cincinnati<br />
Wellington Orthopaedic & Sports Medicine<br />
WLWT-TV <strong>News</strong> 5<br />
23
Summer Edition<br />
Adopt A Room<br />
Current Room Sponsors<br />
Our generous annual room sponsors help underwrite the<br />
cost <strong>of</strong> families’ lodging, enabling us to serve all families,<br />
regardless <strong>of</strong> their ability to make a monetary donation.<br />
Alpha Delta Pi, Eta Epsilon Chapter<br />
Pam & Gordon Bonfield<br />
Neal, Lynne, Courtney and Matthew Brackman in<br />
loving memory <strong>of</strong> Bob Pagenkopf<br />
Vonnie Butera and <strong>Family</strong><br />
Lee and Shannon Carter<br />
Dave, Jen, Mia & Maxwell Carver<br />
CCHMC Medical Staff in honor <strong>of</strong> James M. Anderson<br />
Pam Chidester<br />
Chastang’s Tile Service & Installation<br />
Cincinnati Children’s Dept <strong>of</strong> Radiology<br />
Creative Media Concepts, Angela Lacy and Sheryl Waite<br />
The Dinsmore <strong>Family</strong> in Honor <strong>of</strong> Staff Sergeant Mark<br />
“Tony” Wojciechowski<br />
Duke Realty Corporation<br />
dunnhumbyUSA<br />
FCCLA - Scott H.S. KY<br />
Jenna Lehkamp - Project Leader<br />
Dr. and Mrs. H. B. Francis<br />
General Electric Evendale Employees’ Community<br />
Service Fund<br />
Bob and Dana Gruber <strong>Family</strong><br />
John Hauck Foundation<br />
HDR, Inc. – Cincinnati<br />
The Heinichen <strong>Family</strong><br />
Trey & Tina Isgrig <strong>Family</strong><br />
Bill and Lisa Jacoby<br />
The Jents, Morrises, Paolellos & Wm. Stenger<br />
Johnson Investment Counsel, Inc.<br />
In memory <strong>of</strong> David C. Tedford<br />
Melissa Johnson in memory <strong>of</strong> Sophie Meinhardt<br />
Bill & Carol Kilroy – <strong>McDonald</strong>’s Restaurants<br />
Klosterman Baking Company<br />
Lewis and Topmiller Families<br />
Mike and Sandy Voge and Joseph and Marti Otto<br />
The Luciano <strong>Family</strong><br />
Dr. and Mrs. Paul McEnery<br />
Scott & Robi McIntire<br />
Lisa and Terry McLaughlin in loving memory <strong>of</strong><br />
Mitchell Ryan<br />
Messer Construction Co.<br />
Miami Trails Masters - Loveland, Ohio<br />
The Students <strong>of</strong> Mount Notre Dame High School<br />
Neat, Redpath and Spaeth Wealth Management Group<br />
In honor <strong>of</strong> their clients<br />
Neyra Industries, Inc.<br />
Steve & Becky Osborne <strong>Family</strong><br />
Oak Hills High School Class <strong>of</strong> 2010<br />
Patheon Pharmaceuticals<br />
The Raymond & Anna Johnson Foundation and<br />
The <strong>Family</strong> <strong>of</strong> Alan S. Threlkeld<br />
Larry Renner <strong>Family</strong><br />
Marilyn and Bob Rhein and <strong>Family</strong><br />
<strong>Ronald</strong> <strong>McDonald</strong> <strong>House</strong> Staff<br />
Frederick & Susan Ryckman<br />
Maria Theresa Schaefer Donor Advised Fund at the<br />
Rancho Santa Fe Foundation<br />
Robert C. and Adele R. Schiff Foundation<br />
The Phillip Smith Foundation<br />
Bob & Lynn Stenger<br />
Gary & Joan Thompson<br />
Turpin Hills and Mason Middle School “Pay It Forward”<br />
Valenti Salon & Spa Team & Their Generous Clients<br />
The Vontz <strong>Family</strong><br />
Hal Welge Building Contractor, Inc.<br />
Wood, Herron & Evans, LLP<br />
The Craig Young <strong>Family</strong> Foundation<br />
Adopt a Room – Make a Difference<br />
You can help us reach our 2010 fundraising goal! By considering a<br />
room adoption ($3,000, $5,000, or $10,000), you can bring us one step closer<br />
to securing an annual room sponsor for each <strong>of</strong> our 78 guest bedrooms.<br />
By annually sponsoring a room at <strong>Ronald</strong> <strong>McDonald</strong> <strong>House</strong>, you will have a direct<br />
impact on the lives <strong>of</strong> families, who throughout the year will call your adopted room<br />
“home” while their children are receiving life-saving medical treatment. For an entire<br />
year, your room will provide a safe, secure<br />
place in which <strong>Ronald</strong> <strong>McDonald</strong> <strong>House</strong><br />
guest families can rest and re-energize after<br />
long days spent at the hospital. Your room<br />
sponsorship will help underwrite the cost <strong>of</strong><br />
caring for families, regardless <strong>of</strong> their ability<br />
to donate.<br />
It means so much to our families to see<br />
the name <strong>of</strong> an individual, corporation,<br />
foundation or school on the door to their<br />
Thank you for providing a home for our family<br />
room. Many <strong>of</strong> our guest families take time<br />
to write to their room sponsors:<br />
Dear room sponsor,<br />
Everyone agrees that <strong>Ronald</strong> <strong>McDonald</strong> <strong>House</strong> is a constant lifeline when your<br />
own child’s life is in jeopardy. Such generosity in so many ways allows us to focus<br />
on our chronically ill child. Thank you so much again and again.<br />
– Guest <strong>Family</strong> living in room #75<br />
A room adoption is a great way to honor someone. Whether as a birthday, anniversary,<br />
holiday or memorial gift, a special plaque will hang on the door recognizing the person<br />
or group who adopted the room and/or the person in whose honor it was adopted.<br />
To find out more about adopting a room, contact RMHC Development Director<br />
Jill Miller at JMiller@RM<strong>House</strong>.org or 513.636.9679.<br />
Congratulations to Cincinnati Children’s<br />
Hospital Medical Center for making the U.S.<br />
<strong>News</strong> & World Report’s Honor Roll<br />
Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center is one <strong>of</strong> only eight pediatric hospitals<br />
in the United States to be included on the Honor Roll in U.S. <strong>News</strong> & World Report’s<br />
2010 edition <strong>of</strong> America’s Best Children’s Hospitals.<br />
Cincinnati Children’s ranked in the top 10 in all these specialties:<br />
Gastroenterology, Pulmonology, Kidney, Neonatology, Cancer, Urology, Orthopedics,<br />
Diabetes and Endocrinology, Neurology and Neurosurgery, Heart and Heart Surgery.<br />
4
Summer 2010<br />
48 By 48: Drew Johnson Shares His Mission<br />
With <strong>Ronald</strong> <strong>McDonald</strong> <strong>House</strong><br />
Drew Johnson says he had an epiphany: “It literally came to me while I was in<br />
the shower.” Drew decided he wanted his lifestyle to be about serving others.<br />
Unlike many who volunteer, however, Drew didn’t just go out and sign up with<br />
a local organization. No. Instead, he left his home in Boise, Idaho, hopped in<br />
his car and vowed to hit 48 states in 48 weeks – volunteering in each state for<br />
five out <strong>of</strong> every seven days.<br />
As luck would have it, Drew decided to share his mission with our <strong>Ronald</strong><br />
<strong>McDonald</strong> <strong>House</strong>. For two days, Drew worked alongside our other <strong>House</strong><br />
volunteers. He cleaned rooms, swept up pop tabs in the garage, played with<br />
kids and even helped sort out the recyclables in the dumpster. No task was<br />
too large or too small for Drew.<br />
Drew hopes his 48 By 48 campaign will motivate others to volunteer.<br />
<strong>Ronald</strong> <strong>McDonald</strong> <strong>House</strong> currently boasts more than 340 guest services<br />
volunteers, as well as meal groups who come daily to prepare homecooked<br />
meals for our guest families. For information on becoming a<br />
guest services volunteer, contact Coordinator <strong>of</strong> Volunteer Services Stephanie<br />
Crellin at SCrellin@RM<strong>House</strong>.org . If you and a group <strong>of</strong> friends, organization or co-workers would like to<br />
prepare a meal for our guests, please contact Meals and Activities Coordinator Lisa Davis at LDavis@RM<strong>House</strong>.org . You can learn<br />
more about our many volunteer opportunities by visiting www.RMHcincinnati.org .<br />
Drew takes time to do some Lego building with our children<br />
The 2010 <strong>Ronald</strong> <strong>McDonald</strong> <strong>House</strong><br />
Red Tie Gala Presented by PNC Bank<br />
“Well, I must say,” said Alice, “I have never heard it that way before.”<br />
“I know,’ replied the Caterpillar, “I have improoooved it.”<br />
Just when you thought it couldn’t get any better, that’s precisely what our Red Tie Gala committee has done – they’ve<br />
improooved it. Co-chairs Daphne Jergensen and Chrissie Blatt, along with their incredibly clever committee, have gone<br />
simply mad for this year’s Red Tie Gala.<br />
So – right now – get out your pocket watch, your planner, your smart phone. Whatever sort <strong>of</strong> contraption you use, get<br />
it ready. Hurry. You simply mustn’t be late for this very important date:<br />
“Adventures in Wonderland”<br />
Saturday, October 23 at Six O’clock<br />
Hyatt Regency Cincinnati<br />
Tickets $150<br />
This is one rabbit hole you will want to go down.<br />
All gala proceeds will benefit the families living at <strong>Ronald</strong> <strong>McDonald</strong> <strong>House</strong>.<br />
To secure your seat today, contact Tracy Carl at TCarl@RM<strong>House</strong>.org or (513) 636-5551<br />
Thanks to Ideopia for all their creative efforts for our Red Tie Gala<br />
Did you know that you can easily double the impact <strong>of</strong> your gift?<br />
Please check with your HR department to see whether your employer <strong>of</strong>fers a matching gift program.<br />
5
Summer Edition<br />
Pillars <strong>of</strong> the <strong>House</strong> Society<br />
The Pillars <strong>of</strong> the <strong>House</strong> Society recognizes those thoughtful donors who have left a legacy by including<br />
<strong>Ronald</strong> <strong>McDonald</strong> <strong>House</strong> <strong>Charities</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Greater</strong> Cincinnati in their will, trust, life insurance policy or other planned gift.<br />
Their generosity and foresight are helping ensure that we can care for a growing number <strong>of</strong> guest families for generations to come.<br />
We are eternally grateful to each <strong>of</strong> our Pillars for supporting our <strong>House</strong> and our guest families in such a lasting and life-changing manner.<br />
Lauren Abel<br />
Bob & Sydney Anning<br />
Anonymous (22)<br />
Zilpha Curtin<br />
Robert & Julie Delaney<br />
Mrs. Stona J. (Barbara) Fitch<br />
Tuck Fraser<br />
Marge Gallagher<br />
Jennifer Goodin<br />
Paul & Linda Groen<br />
Gayle Hauser<br />
The Trey & Tina Isgrig <strong>Family</strong><br />
Robert & Mary Keefe<br />
Algis & Janice Koncius<br />
Dr. Leonard & Karen Lind<br />
Bill G. & Meredith McBeath<br />
Scott & Robi McIntire<br />
Kinny & Kathi McQuade<br />
Lucille Miller<br />
Tracy L. Monroe<br />
Robert & Dell Ann Sathe<br />
Richard M. & Joanne M. Schwartz<br />
Mike & Monique Sewell<br />
Susan E. Sewell<br />
Barbara M. Stern<br />
Anita Threet<br />
Paul & Judith Tudor<br />
James S. & Karen B. Wachs<br />
Barry & Karen Weinstein<br />
Franklin H. White<br />
A Volunteer’s Legacy - Planned Giving<br />
James & Linda Wood<br />
The Estates <strong>of</strong>:<br />
Gloria Byrd<br />
Mary Elizabeth “Betty” Cobb<br />
Edith C. Geers<br />
Gwenneth O. Foss<br />
Joan Kroc<br />
John Milner<br />
Evona Evatine & James William Reed<br />
Raymond H. Ruff<br />
Miss Mary Louise Schroth<br />
Jovita E. Schurrer<br />
Mary Ann Spellmire<br />
Kay J. Woodward<br />
* Listing as <strong>of</strong> June 2010<br />
For information about planned giving and ways <strong>of</strong> remembering <strong>Ronald</strong> <strong>McDonald</strong> <strong>House</strong> <strong>Charities</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Greater</strong> Cincinnati in your estate<br />
plans, please contact Tracy Monroe, Director <strong>of</strong> Planned Giving, at (513) 636-9703 or TMonroe@RM<strong>House</strong>.org<br />
“It was easy. It was really painless.” These are the words <strong>of</strong><br />
volunteer Robi McIntire in speaking <strong>of</strong> the planned gift she and<br />
her husband, Scott, have made to <strong>Ronald</strong> <strong>McDonald</strong> <strong>House</strong>. As a<br />
volunteer <strong>of</strong> nearly ten years, Robi McIntire sees first-hand how<br />
great the need is. All <strong>of</strong> this moved Robi to make a planned gift.<br />
“You see the need just by being here, anywhere in the <strong>House</strong>. You<br />
can’t even walk into<br />
“It was easy. It was really painless.”<br />
the kitchen without<br />
feeling the need.” Robi<br />
also recognizes that<br />
<strong>Ronald</strong> <strong>McDonald</strong> <strong>House</strong> is a good steward <strong>of</strong> its donated funds.<br />
“I could not, in good conscience, leave money to an organization<br />
without knowing that the money would be used responsibly. I<br />
know – from watching and listening during my time at the <strong>House</strong><br />
– that our donation will be used to make a direct impact on the<br />
families who need help. My time and my money make a difference<br />
here. And, that feels good.”<br />
With this first-hand knowledge – and a passion for our mission<br />
– Robi and Scott decided<br />
“My time and my money make a<br />
difference here. And, that feels good.”<br />
to make a planned gift.<br />
They had purchased<br />
an insurance policy to<br />
provide for their children.<br />
But with the kids now<br />
grown, they decided to name Cincinnati’s <strong>Ronald</strong> <strong>McDonald</strong><br />
<strong>House</strong> as the beneficiary. For Robi and Scott, the insurance<br />
policy seemed like the right thing to do. They felt comfortable<br />
making this decision now rather than later. “I know that if I had<br />
written this request into my will,<br />
my children would have honored<br />
it. They know my passion,” says<br />
Robi. “But why not do something<br />
ahead <strong>of</strong> time to let people know<br />
how I feel?”<br />
“I strongly believe you have to<br />
give back,” Robi explains. Robi<br />
and Scott have worked very<br />
hard and have been fortunate<br />
to have healthy children. “And for<br />
that,” Robi says, “you have to give<br />
back.”<br />
No matter where you see yourself financially, you can make a<br />
difference. By including a charitable gift to Cincinnati’s <strong>Ronald</strong><br />
<strong>McDonald</strong> <strong>House</strong> in your<br />
will or by naming the<br />
<strong>House</strong> as a beneficiary <strong>of</strong><br />
a life insurance policy, you<br />
can help us ensure that our<br />
<strong>House</strong> – and our hearts –<br />
Thank you for your gift!<br />
“Why not do something<br />
ahead <strong>of</strong> time to let people<br />
know how I feel?”<br />
remain open to care for families for generations to come. Your<br />
planned gift, even a small one, can have a big impact over time.<br />
To learn more about making a planned gift, please contact<br />
RMHC Director <strong>of</strong> Planned Giving Tracy Monroe at TMonroe@<br />
RM<strong>House</strong>.org or 513.636.9703 or anyone in our development<br />
department.<br />
6
Summer 2010<br />
Make Gift Giving Easy<br />
Thank You<br />
from our Executive Director<br />
What an amazing spring this has been. Cincinnati’s <strong>Ronald</strong><br />
<strong>McDonald</strong> <strong>House</strong> continues to thrive thanks to our caring and<br />
thoughtful community. The signs <strong>of</strong> your generosity – even<br />
during such difficult economic times – are everywhere. In this<br />
edition, you have seen many examples <strong>of</strong> our incredible donors<br />
and volunteers.<br />
Our outdoor play area is undergoing a major overhaul. We have<br />
a new wheelchair-accessible vehicle. Our Golf Classic and Red Tie<br />
Gala continue to grow and to receive the support <strong>of</strong> our talented<br />
volunteer committees and our generous corporate sponsors. We<br />
have comfortable furnishings in every room <strong>of</strong> our <strong>House</strong>. Our<br />
volunteers continue to give so generously <strong>of</strong> their time as well as<br />
their treasures. Meal groups visit daily, providing delicious homecooked<br />
meals for our guest families. And, we have 59 annual<br />
room sponsors (our goal this year is a sponsor for all 78 rooms),<br />
who allow us to care for our guests regardless <strong>of</strong> any family’s<br />
ability to contribute. All <strong>of</strong> this – and more – is made possible<br />
through your generosity.<br />
Because <strong>of</strong> you, our supportive and caring community, we<br />
continue to receive letters like the one you’ll see from former<br />
<strong>House</strong> guests Raylee and family, and visits from kids like Jeremy,<br />
who want to give back to say thank you. Because <strong>of</strong> you, families<br />
who travel to Cincinnati to seek the very best medical help for<br />
their children have our <strong>House</strong> to call their “home away from<br />
home” during some <strong>of</strong> life’s most trying <strong>of</strong> times.<br />
Once again, I’ll say these words that we can never say enough –<br />
thank you. All <strong>of</strong> us at <strong>Ronald</strong> <strong>McDonald</strong> <strong>House</strong> are truly grateful<br />
for your continued support.<br />
We all want to be thoughtful and caring in our gift<br />
giving. We want to make sure that the gift is well suited<br />
to the receiver and to the occasion being celebrated.<br />
But gift giving can be overwhelming, not to mention<br />
time-consuming and expensive.<br />
Here’s a suggestion for making gift giving more<br />
meaningful – for both the giver and the receiver.<br />
Consider a <strong>Ronald</strong> <strong>McDonald</strong> <strong>House</strong> tribute gift to<br />
celebrate that special someone. Whether it’s a birthday,<br />
wedding, baby shower, anniversary, graduation or even<br />
an end-<strong>of</strong>-year thank you gift to your child’s teachers,<br />
a contribution to <strong>Ronald</strong> <strong>McDonald</strong> <strong>House</strong> makes a<br />
wonderful gift. And, you never have to worry about the<br />
size or color. We’ll send your special someone a card<br />
on your behalf, explaining the care and comfort the gift<br />
will provide our guest families.<br />
Our guest families, if they can, are asked to donate<br />
$25 per day while they live at <strong>Ronald</strong> <strong>McDonald</strong> <strong>House</strong>.<br />
Under the weight <strong>of</strong> mounting medical bills, however,<br />
even this small amount is <strong>of</strong>ten too much. Any amount<br />
that is meaningful to you will make a difference to our<br />
<strong>Ronald</strong> <strong>McDonald</strong> <strong>House</strong> guest families. For example:<br />
$25 Covers a guest family’s requested<br />
donation for one day.<br />
$75 Covers a guest family’s requested<br />
donation for a weekend.<br />
As you plan for the gifts to the people who are special<br />
to you, please consider making your gifts even more<br />
meaningful – by helping <strong>Ronald</strong> <strong>McDonald</strong> <strong>House</strong> keep<br />
families together when it matters most.<br />
To make a tribute gift, go online or contact Shirley Wuske<br />
at SWuske@RM<strong>House</strong>.org or at 513-636-9304.<br />
Jennifer Goodin<br />
Executive Director<br />
Whether you’re driving through or dining in,<br />
please remember our Charitable Canisters<br />
at your local <strong>McDonald</strong>’s. Your spare change<br />
directly supports the children and families<br />
living at <strong>Ronald</strong> <strong>McDonald</strong> <strong>House</strong>.<br />
7
<strong>Ronald</strong> <strong>McDonald</strong><br />
<strong>House</strong> <strong>Charities</strong><br />
OF GREATER CINCINNATI<br />
350 Erkenbrecher Avenue<br />
Cincinnati, OH 45229<br />
Phone: 513.636.7642<br />
Fax: 513.636.4887<br />
Email: SDukes@RM<strong>House</strong>.org<br />
www.RMHcincinnati.org<br />
NONPROFIT<br />
U.S.POSTAGE<br />
PAID<br />
Cincinnati, OH<br />
Permit No. 9772<br />
If you receive an extra newsletter, please pass it on to a friend or let us know so we<br />
can correct our database. If you know someone who would like to receive our<br />
newsletter, please send us their name and address. If your name and address shown<br />
on the mailer panel <strong>of</strong> this newsletter are not correct, please let us know by contacting<br />
Shawnie Dukes at SDukes@RM<strong>House</strong>.org or 513-636-7642. Thank you!<br />
Pop Tabs from Jeremy<br />
Jeremy Smith <strong>of</strong> Springdale, Arkansas, was recently back in<br />
town for a check-up at Cincinnati Children’s.<br />
Not only is Jeremy recovering<br />
beautifully from his bone marrow<br />
transplant, but he is also finding a<br />
way to give back – to say thank you<br />
to <strong>Ronald</strong> <strong>McDonald</strong> <strong>House</strong> – for the<br />
support he and his mom received<br />
here. Jeremy organized his own pop<br />
tab collection program. And, the<br />
money he earned from recycling his<br />
tabs came right back to Cincinnati’s<br />
<strong>Ronald</strong> <strong>McDonald</strong> <strong>House</strong>.<br />
Last year, <strong>Ronald</strong> <strong>McDonald</strong><br />
<strong>House</strong> raised more than $13,000<br />
from recycled pop tabs. We were<br />
also fortunate that two local schools -St. Vincent Fehrer<br />
in Kenwood and St. James in White Oak - raised more than 1<br />
million pop tabs each! Well done, teams.<br />
Jeremy Smith<br />
Remember to pop those tabs. Just bring your tabs to <strong>Ronald</strong><br />
<strong>McDonald</strong> <strong>House</strong> and we’ll do the recycling for you.<br />
Save the Date<br />
October 23 – Red Tie Gala<br />
Adventures in Wonderland<br />
November 25 – Thanksgiving Day Race<br />
December 6 – Share a Night Lighting Ceremony<br />
For more information, please visit our website at<br />
www.RMHcincinnati.org or contact RMHC Events<br />
Manager Tracy Carl at TCarl@RM<strong>House</strong>.org or<br />
(513) 636-5551<br />
When you pull the tab<br />
to open a s<strong>of</strong>t drink, remember<br />
that those little<br />
tabs add up to some<br />
big dollars for <strong>Ronald</strong><br />
<strong>McDonald</strong> <strong>House</strong>. Please save your tabs<br />
and bring them to Cincinnati’s <strong>Ronald</strong><br />
<strong>McDonald</strong> <strong>House</strong>. We will recycle them to<br />
raise funds for all the children and families<br />
who call our <strong>House</strong> “home.”