Supportive Family Relationships

Criteria: Actively initiates participation to engage families in a supportive role through programming, events, and initiatives of the internship organization.

As a volunteer at the Ronald McDonald House, I can engage families through initiatives of the organization by assisting with preparation of events and responding to needs. Currently, preparations involve boxing Halloween items for the Care Cart and in House Trick or Treat for current day and over night guests. Families are allowed to bring their children in costume to trick or treat in the House offices. Hospitalized children will recieve a box with a small toy, candy, and an activity. The volunteer working the Care Cart travels from room to room to offer the boxes.

While volunteering I have the opportunity to interact with guests and respond to their needs. This can include locating and giving hygiene supplies or referring guests to the staff members who can assist them better, such as the Family Services member who can provide resources. Activities and events like therapy dogs visit the House, if volunteering during these events I can encourage guests to participate and engage with them during these times. Other examples include music therapy, boxing to-go food for day guests, and keeping track of how many families get a meal to help with future meal planning.

Daily or regular volunteer participation that supports families includes restocking food and hygiene items for guest use. Checking in with the staff members who on shift for the night to see if additional tasks or projects need completed also support the House needs and help to better serve the families in need. Overall, the Ronald McDonald House volunteers assist with supports that reduce stress and allow families to dedicate time to heal and support their hospitalized children. These supports range from housekeeping to socialization.