■ Corporate Philanthropy
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One mother who used the RMH in New Brunswick said it “ helped me because you want to feel like you are at home when you ’ re going through something like this .” Gabrielle Ayala added that : “ They cooked for us and took care of everything . They are always willing to listen and make you feel like family , even if you just met them yesterday .”
The New Brunswick house is a dedicated partner to the Children ’ s Specialized Hospital that is part of the RWJBarnabas Health system , according to President and CEO Warren E . Moore . “ This home away from home gives family members the space they need to rest in order to accurately communicate and advocate for their child , all the while providing them peace of mind knowing that they ’ re only steps from the hospital .”
Dolan is proud the RMH facilities did not contribute to the community spread of COVID‐19 throughout the pandemic . All the facilities have always adhered to the highest hygienic and safety standards , she explained , noting the families are interacting with fragile children who are often immune compromised . Their experience made them well prepared to face the pandemic challenges .
Through the organization ’ s sophisticated infrastructure , Dolan said , RMHC was able to “ communicate quickly and consistently ” with all the chapters on the restrictions and operating guidelines specific to every location . “ I believe we came out of 2020 stronger as a system in terms of alignment than we came into 2020 ,” the new CEO said .
The excellent training and leadership development offered by RMHC is its competitive advantage , in the president ’ s estimation . Worldwide , RMHC employs a staff of 5,000 complemented by 490,000 volunteers . By nurturing the chapters with extensive education on such topics as finances , branding , advertising and fundraising , Dolan is confident their mission can be elevated and strategic growth can be attained .
Another key to RMHC accomplishing its goal is corporate partners . Dolan encourages businesses to consider co-branding . “ Our brand is strong and highly trusted ,” she stressed .
She encourages corporate partners to consider sponsoring an event or program . Dolan is also very appreciative of companies that allow RMHC to access their employees as potential donors and / or volunteers .
During the height of the pandemic , volunteer opportunities were scaled back . For example , on-site food preparation was replaced by food delivery or drop-off . As the threat of COVID‐19 recedes , Dolan hopes to re-engage volunteers in more activities .
She sees RMHC as poised to make a deeper global impact . “ We have the platform ,” Dolan said , “ and we are looking forward to having a role in the equitable access to healthcare .”
The Ronald McDonald House Suite at Jersey Shore University Medical Center
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