Keeping Families Close
Mission Moment
January is National Birth Defects Awareness Month
Neonatal Intensive Care is among the most common medical situations that lead families to spend time at the House – and birth defects present a significant proportion of those stays. In the spirit of raising awareness for National Birth Defects Awareness Month, we’re sharing a note from a family member whose stay at the House turned into an opportunity to give back:

"Last year around this time, our twin granddaughters were born. One of them was found to have a life-threatening birth defect and was airlifted to Riley. I caught up with them at the Ronald McDonald House. Despite my daughter being at first sick herself, everyone at the Ronald McDonald House took wonderful care of us all and showed nothing but patience and kindness. I remembered that kindness all last year, and also remembered you solicit donations of personal care items for guests. Please find some included. Thank you, God bless you, and Happy New Year."

-Jodi & Philip
A special thank you to all our guests who have gone on to pay it forward so generously to the House, whether in time, treasure, or much needed household goods that help keep our families cared for and comfortable.
Around the House
Send Love on Valentine's Day
Support families staying at RMH this Valentine's Day by purchasing a Valentine's card to share with our guests! Cards will decorate our lobby and show our families that you're sending them love. Money raised from the card sales will help to fund more overnights for families in need. Email Blair Findlay, Annual Fund Manager, if you have any questions. 
Holiday Cheer at Santa's Workshop
It’s hard to be away from home for the holidays. So when December approaches, staff and volunteers at the House pull out all the stops to make sure it’s a bright, fun holiday season for all of our guests. Our winter festivities culminate with Santa’s Workshop, a holiday toy “shop” filled wall-to-wall with gifts for families. And we couldn’t do it without your donations. This year, we received more than $24,000 worth of toys and merchandise donated by our friends and supporters in the community. Thank you for sharing your holiday spirit with our families! 
Hiring Part Time Weekend House Managers
Do you, or someone you know, have a knack for customer service? We’re looking for part time Weekend House Managers! The qualified individuals help manage house operations during weekends, and serve as ambassadors to guests, staff, and volunteers alike.
Anyone Can Make a Difference
Top 10: Why You Should Volunteer
We asked our volunteers what makes their time at the Ronald McDonald House so special. Here are our top ten reasons to volunteer, straight from the source! 
Mac's Minute
Hi fur-iends! 
Did you have a fun holiday? I sure did! So many people came to visit me, and I got lots of snuggle time. And everyone has been so generous! My friends at the House tell me there are still a few things we really need right now.
Here are some of the items on our House Wish List :
  • Plastic forks and spoons (no knives)
  • Dishwasher-safe soup/cereal bowls
  • Zippered pillow protectors for standard sized pillows
  • Electric and/or hand-held can openers
  • Stainless steel coffee decanters (both regular and decaf)
If you come by with a donation, see if I’m around! I love having my picture taken with our generous friends from the community.
Fur-well,
Mac
Chief Cheer Officer
Save the Date
Tickets available soon. More info at rmhccin.org
Fast Fact
Do you feel like Coke tastes different at McDonald’s? You’re not imagining things! From how the syrup is delivered to stores, to properly chilled water and precision CO2 levels, McDonald’s has it down to a science when your cup is filled with your favorite fizzy beverage. So get out there and enjoy a Coke, and be sure to Round Up for RMHC!