ATL Ronald McDonald House

Expanding smiles, extending hope

By Erica Rascón on Mar 6, 2013 in Giving, People

As Atlanta Ronald McDonald House Charities (ARMHC) enters its second phase of expansion, Atlanta families can look forward to a brighter future in children’s health care.

Yardi recently joined forces with ARMHC to provide quality care for Atlanta’s families in the greatest need. ARMHC specializes in making families feel at home during their toughest hours by providing low- and no-cost housing for those who would otherwise traverse great distances to the city’s hospitals. Children are able to receive the treatment that they need for illness and injury with their families nearby.

Each year, Ronald McDonald House Charities equips more than 4.5 million families with the resources that they need to reside comfortably while their young ones undergo treatment at a nearby hospital. At each home, staff members and volunteers work hard to create an atmosphere that facilitates unity and rest, allowing parents to focus on their child’s recovery rather than the daily trails of household care. More than 42,000 families have had the opportunity to stay at the Ronald McDonald Houses of Atlanta.

“These houses are an absolute lifeline,” explain Carrie Bowden, Marketing and Communications Director for ARMHC. “They are a stable place, a very loving place, that provides a lot of comfort while families are going through the toughest crises in their lives.” Both Houses are located in close proximity to state-of-the-art children’s hospitals. “The facilities provide food, safe and comfortable housing, laundry services, meals and transportation. It’s just tremendous to see the benefit that the Houses provide for families.”

Two Ronald McDonald Houses call Atlanta home. The Peachtree-Dunwoody house was crafted to assist families that are undergoing rehabilitation at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta Scottish Rite. Demand has grown in recent years, resulting in a need for more adequate housing. The Peachtree-Dunwoody House is slated to undergo a complete demolition and rebuild in the near future. The makeover will bring it up to par with the internationally renowned Gatewood House.

The Gatewood House, the newest House in ARMHC, was completed in 2008. This LEED certified building is the second of its kind in the world, offering unique care opportunities in an environmentally-conscious setting. The Gatewood House accommodates families with children who are being assisted at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta Egleston, the regional leader in organ transplants. In addition to 40 guest rooms, the home has been outfitted with a specialty wing of ten suites that are custom designed to accommodate the sensitive immune systems of transplant patients.

The Gatewood House was received with open arms and grateful hearts. The pediatric medical professionals and those who require their services await the new Peachtree-Dunwoody complex with bated breath. Bowden is one of many who are excited for the expansion to get underway. “We’ve outgrown the Peachtree-Dunwoody House,” she says. “The new House will be better able to meet the needs of patients—simple additions like an elevator, more rooms, wider halls and doorways. The expansion is going to make a huge impact.”

The construction and operations for the homes are sponsored in part by corporate and individual donations. Yardi contributed a grant that covered the cost of living for 13 families in need, each for an average of eight nights. Additional funds are gathered through fun and innovative fundraising events hosted by ARMHC.

The Golf Classic is usually the first fundraiser of the year. On a balmy spring day, golf lovers and philanthropist come together for a day of sport, relaxation, and camaraderie.  The event takes place at the prestigious Cherokee Country Club.

Following close on the Golf Classic’s heels comes Atlanta Dines In, a unique culinary experience where patrons are invited to dinner at private homes in some of the city’s most distinguished neighborhoods. Master chefs from Atlanta’s finest restaurants customize gourmet meals for the guests, served in an intimate yet elegant setting. It’s an excellent opportunity for sponsors to mingle and share the ARMHC vision.

In autumn, patrons gather at the Georgia Aquarium for the Hearts and Hands gala, a black-tie affair sponsored by The Coca-Cola Company. For Bowden, the Hearts and Hands gala ranks as the crowning event of the year. “It’s our biggest event,” she says enthusiastically. “It takes the full 12 months of planning and preparation. When it’s done, there is such a sense of accomplishment, seeing everyone come together on that one night. We usually have 600 guests in attendance and it’s really fun to see the supporters at this big celebration. That’s always a fun night.” What’s loved more than cocktails and dining, perhaps, are the all-star musical performances that take place each year. Big stars with big hearts are proud to share their talents on behalf of the cause. Guests are encouraged to bring their cameras.

Student outreach also plays a large role at ARMHC. Each year, 90 Atlanta high school students receive scholarships based on merit and financial need. 15 students were rewarded a $2,500 scholarship for the next four years. 75 students received a one-time award of $1,500. Most of these students would also qualify for the HOPE Scholarship; together, the scholarships are adequate cover the cost of tuition, books, and a little extra for expenses like transportation and meals. For existing college students, ARMHC hosts summer internships that help young professionals reach their career goals in the non-profit sector.

While the services of ARMHC have touched tens of thousands of families in the region, there is more work to be done. Each Atlanta House has a higher demand than a capacity to fulfill it. “We are a small, dedicated staff. We couldn’t [operate the houses] without the volunteers and sponsors,” says Bowden. Sponsors on all levels are appreciated. With 90 cents of every dollar funneled directly into programs, a little goes a long way.

Individuals interested in supporting the ARMHC can participate in pop tab collections. This is one of the easiest ways for sponsors of all ages and ability levels to chip in. Coinstar machines offer another alternative. When exchanging coins for cash, participating kiosks will donate proceeds to ARMHC.

Young professionals may consider becoming a member of the Red Shoe Society of Atlanta.  Participating adults volunteer their time, promote awareness, and raise funds at numerous events. the Red Shoe Society has proven to be a fun way for Atlantans to meet other like-minded professionals while supporting a worthy cause.

Last but not least, Atlantans are encouraged to volunteer. Bowden explains that there is nothing like good old fashioned volunteering to make the Houses operate smoothly and efficiently. “The volunteers are a big, irreplaceable part of operations. They support the families, do activities, help serve meals, provide support, and sometimes entertainment,” she laughs. “The families have a good time while they are staying here, an overall good experience. It extends hope to the families.”

Have you attended an Atlanta Ronald McDonald House Charity event in the past? What did you gain from the experience?