At RMHC Northwest Ohio, our volunteers are the heartbeat of our mission, providing a comforting home away from home for families with children receiving medical care. One of our dedicated volunteers, Gina Shiffert, has been making a profound impact since she started in 1992. Her story is one of commitment, compassion, and community.
Gina first became interested in volunteering at RMHC due to the organization’s stellar reputation both locally and globally. “I was working full-time and serving other non-profits when I learned about the Ronald McDonald House,” Gina recalls. “I liked the idea of it, and its reputation made a big impact on me.”
Her journey with RMHC began at the old Ronald McDonald House, where she served as a board member, committee volunteer, and was part of the grants, development, and communications committees. Gina fondly remembers the grants committee, which supported other local children’s charities. “It was my favorite because it extended our reach and helped even more children.”
Twice a week, Gina dedicates her time to RMHC. On Wednesdays, she assists with various tasks around the House, helping to ease the workload of the Family Services Manager. “I fold laundry, clean the back workroom, and take shifts at the front desk,” she says. Fridays are laundry days, where Gina meticulously inspects and wraps sheets, ensuring families have a beautifully presented bed to return to.
Her favorite part of volunteering? The people. “I love the interaction with families and kids. Summer and Christmas are my favorite times because I get to see more siblings. The House feels magical at Christmas with the decorations, gifts, and donations. It’s truly special.”
A memorable moment for Gina was when her great-nephew was a patient at Toledo Children’s Hospital. His parents used RMHC as day guests. “For all the years I volunteered, I never imagined a family member needing this place. When they did, it was a moment of realization—this is what RMHC is here for.”
Another touching memory involved a little girl named Olivia during a Christmas in July event. Gina recalls, “I buzzed Santa in the front gate. Olivia asked where Santa was, and I said he landed on the roof and would be here any minute. Then Santa walked around the corner and gave her a Rapunzel doll she had wanted her “whole life”. Seeing her happiness was heartwarming.”
For Gina, RMHC is more than a place to volunteer; it’s a family. “From the minute I started, everyone here became part of my family,” she says. “This place makes it easy for people staying here. There’s no need for a hotel or driving back and forth, and there’s always someone to check on the families.”
Gina’s dedication hasn’t gone unnoticed. Family Services Manager, Diana Chatman, praises her commitment: “Gina is so dedicated, we don’t know what we would do without her. Gina and Tom have been a staple of our organization for years. If Gina isn’t here, it feels like a member of our family isn’t here. She makes sure our House is clean and creates beautiful bundles of sheets. She is a true rock star.”
Despite her love for RMHC, Gina faces a challenge each winter when she travels to California. “I miss RMHC terribly,” she admits. Yet, her commitment remains unwavering. “RMHC takes precedence in some areas of my life, even over my 18-hole golf league at Belmont.”
Gina’s advice to potential volunteers is simple: “Do it. Do it. Do it. You just have to see the place to know how special it is.”
Volunteering at RMHC has given Gina a profound sense of gratitude. Even after retiring from five boards, she continues to serve RMHC and the Salvation Army. “RMHC is my respite, my job. I’m a volunteer and don’t get paid, but I consider this my job and don’t want to miss a second of it.”
Gina Shiffert’s story is a testament to the power of dedication and the impact one person can have on a community. Her unwavering commitment and heartfelt service inspire us all to give back and make a difference. Join us at RMHC Northwest Ohio and become a part of this incredible family. Together, we can create a home away from home for families in need.