The New York Islanders and Clark Gillies Foundation came together at Ronald McDonald House on April 4th to celebrate the opening of the New York Islanders Calrk Gillies Media Room. Several months in the making, this room was made possible through a $200,000 donation from the two organizations and will provide respite and joy to the over 1,000 residents supported by RMHC New York Metro every year.
For families with sick children who are staying at Ronald McDonald House, attending a hockey game may feel impossible. The New York Islanders Media Room will allow families to experience the magic and prestige of attending a hockey game at UBS Arena.
“Our families here are really excited to get into the space and start using it!”
– Matt Campo, CEO of RMHC New York Metro
Built in 1986, the Ronald McDonald House in New Hyde Park has long been a “home away from home” for families of sick or injured children. Located just steps away from Cohen Children’s Medical Center, RMHC New York Metro provides families with private bedrooms and bathrooms, common areas, fresh-cooked meals, laundry services, a fitness center, and much more.
Bringing the New York Islanders to New Hyde Park
The ribbon-cutting took place Thursday night, around what would have been the Isles legend, Clark Gillies, 71st birthday. Many New York Islanders alum was present for the ribbon cutting, including Josh Bailey.
The Albano family, who received care and comfort at the Ronald McDonald Family Rooms in Stony Brook, attended the event. As lifelong Islanders fans and season ticket holders, they reveled in knowing families like theirs would benefit from the Media Room.
Good Design Changes Lives
Kim Radovich Interiors and Kim E. Courtney Home designed the New York Islanders Clark Gillies Media Room. After a visit to UBS Arena, Kim’s team was committed to bringing all of the grandeur of UBS Arena to Ronald McDonald House. The room is filled with signed memorabilia, jerseys, hockey sticks, Clark Gillies photos, Sparky plush toys, and much more. As you enter the space, you can almost hear the cheering crowds.
Families can relax, work remotely, play on the PS5, play cards or board games or attend to remote learning. For families at Ronald McDonald House, the Media Room is an essential space that promotes togetherness and a sense of normalcy during a pediatric medical crisis.
