Lucy Greig is a Family Services and Operations Intern with Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC) of Northwest Ohio. Lucy will graduate from Bowling Green State University in May with a major in Human Development and Family Studies.
While interning at RMHC, Lucy focused on services that impact families, volunteers, and operations.
The Hospitality Suite at Ebeid Children’s Hospital was maintained by Lucy and others, providing coffee and snacks to families and staff while educating families and staff about resources offered by RMHC. Lucy increased communications with families by creating a resource manual and a weekly newsletter, communicating upcoming events, programs, and other happenings around RMHC. Additionally, Lucy contributed to the new wellness rooms in RMHC to create a space for families and staff to practice self-care throughout their stay. Lucy had an impact on volunteers as well, prioritizing their tasks and introducing them to RMHC.
As a student intern, learning and growing is the primary outcome of their experience.
“I gained a better understanding of working and interacting with families in stressful situations,” said Lucy. “I learned the importance of active listening and creating a space for families to share their stories. Having a child in the hospital is difficult, and many families want to be heard and validated in their experiences. My internship also taught me about professional organizations and non-profit agencies. I have grown in my confidence and skills as a professional.”
As Lucy finishes her internship, we asked Lucy what Ronald McDonald House Charities means to her.
“RMHC means kindness to me,” said Lucy. “Every individual I worked with throughout my internship has welcomed me and taught me more than I could have hoped for.” Lucy continues, “I have seen the staff’s kindness toward the families we serve and their determination to ease the stress of healthcare experiences. The individuals at RMHC greatly impacted me, and I will take this experience with me throughout my life.”
“This opportunity of interning with the RMHC of Northwest Ohio was a great way for me to give back and learn about my future career field. I am grateful for this opportunity to work with Wendy, the Family Services Managers, volunteers, families, and the RMHC team.”
What’s the next chapter for Lucy now that she is graduating from BGSU?
Lucy will complete a Child Life Internship at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital this summer. At Cincinnati Children’s Hospital, she hopes to become certified as a child life specialist and help children and families cope with their healthcare experiences.
