I like to volunteer at the Ronald McDonald House because . . .

"… Every week I feel an inner peace knowing I may have made a difference in a family's life. When I was younger, I had a sick brother and stayed in a similar type home. I have wonderful memories of the nice people who made our stay a little easier there. I hope I can make that impression on people here at the Ronald McDonald House. Our Ronald McDonald home is so serene, you just feel 'good inside' when you're here."

"So often when donating money for missions or charities, I wonder who am I helping? I know I am doing something important, but never see a face or learn the situation the person or family is struggling with. At our Ronald McDonald House, I meet the families, see pictures of the babies and interact with the parents, grandparents and other friends. I believe this interpersonal communication helps the families in their difficult time and makes me feel as though I am helping to lessen their anxiety and fears. I in return have the opportunity to meet some really great people."

"… It is a good thing to do. We should help each other. I have met so many wonderful people at Ronald McDonald House both the guests and volunteers. It makes me feel good, I feel happy when I know I have shown someone kindness."

"… Just because I enjoy getting out and doing something worthwhile in my spare time… I especially enjoy when the parents bring the babies to our Ronald McDonald House before going home! I am a nurse and I see so many loved ones sleeping on floors in the hospital, etc. I am so very happy that the Ronald McDonald House of the Four States has seen the need for help with patients and families in other areas of the hospitals such as ICU and CVIU. RMH saw a need and opened their doors and I'm proud to be a Ronald McDonald House Volunteer!"

"It feels so good to be able to help others. I've wanted to volunteer for a long time but couldn't make up my mind as to what organization I wanted to help. When the Ronald McDonald House was being built, I knew that was a place I wanted to serve. I've been volunteering for the last four months and I am really enjoying myself."

"… Our youngest son was seen by physicians in Kansas City, KS and St. Louis, MO. We were able to stay in the Ronald McDonald Houses in both towns and were helped by trained volunteers in both houses who were very friendly and helped us out in very stressful times for us as a family. I've always enjoyed trying to help other people, and in volunteering at the Ronald McDonald House in Joplin, Missouri I have been able to help others in need."

"… I like to feel like I have contributed to a worthy cause. At the Ronald McDonald House you see first hand, what an illness can do to a family. Being a volunteer makes me feel like I've made their stay a little easier."

For information on volunteer opportunities at the Ronald McDonald House of the Four States, please contact:

The House Manager or Executive Director
34th & Jackson
Joplin, MO 64804

Phone: (417) 624-CARE
Fax: (417) 624-0270

E-mail: annette@rmhjoplin.org