29 May Volunteer Highlight: Jim Whalen

My first visit to the House five plus years ago was for a community service day my company was sponsoring. I helped wrap holiday presents that were being given to all the volunteers.  It really showed me how much the volunteers are valued and appreciated by the staff. Then I was given a tour of the House and learned a little bit about the history of service to the community. I also had a chance to see how well the families were cared for during their stay.  It really touched my heart so I never left. I applied to be a regular volunteer at the House the very next day and it has proven to be one of the best decisions I’ve ever made.

Working in Family Services I sometimes get to see the families coming back from a long day at the hospital when I help serve dinner. They’re exhausted and so happy to get a warm meal and just have some downtime.

And they’re so appreciative of the volunteers. It just makes me feel good to help provide a little break for them. Also, I get to see the strength and resolve from the children that are going through so much and just need a break to be kids. They are truly courageous! I highly recommend taking time to read the Good News Board where families share their accomplishments. It is very inspiring.

Family Services can include a number of different jobs, such as helping serve meals, keeping the dining area clean, stocked and orderly, helping to ensure families arriving for the first time have everything they need in their room or making sure nothing is left behind when they leave. Also, helping maintain the grounds outside the House through Spring cleanup and setting up holiday decorations.

I also love volunteering at the many different special events they sponsor throughout the year to raise funds for the House. These include three 5K races, a golf tournament, a classic car show, a wine women’s shoes event and some other really great fundraisers to name a few.

To me, it means giving back to the community by doing something that really makes a positive impact on other people’s lives. I feel that way when I’m volunteering at the Ronald McDonald House.

I would like to finish by saying how blessed I am to have met so many wonderful and caring people that work and volunteer at the House. It truly is a very special place!