Every year, Ronald McDonald House Charities New York Metro pays a special tribute to the volunteers that make our organization run. From the folks that drive patients and families to doctors’ appointments, to the people making sandwiches or handing a child a new toy to play with: Volunteers are the heartbeat of the organization.
The impact of volunteering at RMHC.
RMHC New York Metro serves over 7,000 families annually through the Ronald McDonald House and the two Family Rooms at Stony Brook Children’s Hospital. In 2023, families stayed a total of 11,600 nights at the Ronald McDonald House in New Hyde Park. And last year, volunteers served families 1,100 meals, which equates to three meals a day for families. All the care and support families receive is offered at no-cost to families and as volunteer Shelley Psaris says in the video: “We expect nothing in return. Not a profuse ‘thank you.’ No. Just to be there.”
Volunteers of the Year
At this year’s Volunteer Recognition Dinner, held on July 30, 2024, we celebrated several amazing individuals who donated their time and talents so that families with a sick child could experience the comforts of home.
This year’s New Hyde Park volunteer of the year is Richard Dixon. Rich’s personality shines in his relentless pursuit of excellence in every task he undertakes. His love is the driving force behind his actions. His warm smile and encouraging words have a way of making everyone he interacts with feel valued and cherished.
Just as he navigates the open road with skill and confidence on his bike, he takes on his volunteer work with a sense of adventure and determination. He embraces every challenge with the heart of a true enthusiast.
This year’s Stony Brook volunteer of the year is Christine Sauro. She consistently shows up with enthusiasm and a heart full of compassion and has shown that true service is about more than just giving time; it’s about giving of oneself fully and selflessly.
Christine has made deep meaningful connections with the families she serves. She is present supporting them through the highs and the lows of the NICU experience, always going above and beyond what is expected. Her unwavering dedication, tireless efforts, and remarkable passion for helping others have set a shining example for us all.
The Pacemakers, a senior citizen dance troupe based in Queens, closed out the program with a fun and energetic performance! They had all our guests on their feet, dancing the night away. DJ Ivan played hits like “I Wanna Dance with Somebody,” “Love on Top” and “The Electric Slide.” Guests didn’t want the night to end!
To learn more about our volunteer openings and programs, click here.