01 Sep Volunteer Spotlight: Kevin and Claire Wilson

Husband and wife duo Claire and Kevin Wilson began volunteering for the Ronald McDonald House of Delaware in 2016, after spending time seeking a volunteer opportunity where they could serve together. We recently caught up with Claire and Kevin on Zoom to chat about their volunteer experience.

Claire recalls a friend of hers who had volunteered for Ronald McDonald House, “After hearing how my friend described it being a team environment, I thought that it was an opportunity that I would like to try.”

Claire says she and Kevin know their strengths: Claire gravitates toward “behind-the-scenes” work in the kitchen and Kevin’s gregarious nature is a good match for welcoming families and service groups on tours of the House.

Kevin says that the House’s hopeful environment, plus a loving team of fellow volunteers and staff make it a fulfilling volunteer experience. “If there is ever a moment of hesitation about knowing how to help, I’ve learned that smiling goes a long way,” he says.

In 2019, Claire and Kevin were amongst the first volunteers to receive the House’s Golden Pineapple Award, which recognizes service that embodies the spirit of those intangible assets we appreciate in a home: warmth, welcome, friendship and hospitality.

Claire describes the simple comforts a volunteer can provide: things like helping a parent to find a special cup for a child or helping in family kitchens for breakfast in the morning.

“Seeing the love and strength parents have for their child puts it all in perspective,” Claire says.

Both Claire and Kevin say they look forward to returning to volunteer service when the House can welcome volunteers back onsite. “We miss the people,” they say, “It’s a special feeling to be around others committed to volunteer service.”