Q: Can you share a little about your background and what you do professionally?
A: I work in marketing and communications for a tech company based in California. With 20 years of experience in communications and employee experience, I have dedicated my career to creating meaningful engagement and impactful messaging.
Q: How did you first learn about Ronald McDonald House Charities of Northwest Ohio?
A: When I moved back to Toledo from Washington, D.C., I was eager to meet new people and get involved in the community. I joined the Junior League of Toledo, where I learned about their instrumental role in establishing RMHC in Toledo. Inspired by their commitment, I began volunteering and cooking at the Ronald McDonald House, a tradition I have continued since 2007.
Q: What inspired you to get involved with RMHC and join the board?
A: My decision to join the Board was driven by two key reasons. First, I had two friends who had previously served on the Board and spoke highly of their experiences, reinforcing what an incredible organization RMHC is. Second, my personal experience with my father’s illness deeply shaped my perspective. He developed an unknown disease that left him unable to walk or talk, and as my family traveled from hospital to hospital seeking answers, we faced the immense challenge of finding accommodations. Staying close to him was crucial for our support and advocacy, and I understand firsthand the emotional and financial strain this can place on families. While RMHC focuses on children and their families, my experience reinforced just how essential it is to have a place to stay near a loved one receiving medical care. This connection made me even more passionate about RMHC’s mission.
Q: What committees are you involved in at RMHC?
A: I am actively involved in the Marketing Committee, where I contribute my expertise to help spread awareness and support for RMHC’s mission.
Q: Do you have a personal story or experience that makes RMHC’s mission especially meaningful to you?
A: My father’s illness had a profound impact on my family. During our search for medical answers, my mother—who is elderly and disabled—along with my pregnant sister, struggled to find places to stay. This experience highlighted the necessity of having a welcoming place for families facing medical crises, which is exactly what RMHC provides. Knowing firsthand how important this support is makes RMHC’s mission deeply personal to me.
Q: Have you or someone close to you ever needed a place like RMHC? If so, how did that experience shape your perspective?
A: Yes, I know multiple people who have benefited from RMHC. Seeing how much relief and comfort it has provided them only reinforces my commitment to supporting the organization and its mission.
Q: What’s your favorite part about being involved with RMHC?
A: RMHC provides meaningful, tangible support to families during incredibly difficult times. I love being part of an organization that eases burdens and allows families to focus on what matters most—their loved ones.
Q: Is there a specific RMHC program or initiative that resonates with you the most?
A: Cooking for families is something that deeply resonates with me. Providing items for the food closet ensures that families always have what they need, and it’s an immediate way to make an impact. I’d also love to get more involved with holiday initiatives—anything that brings a touch of joy and comfort to families during the holidays is incredibly meaningful.
Q: What is one memory or moment with RMHC that has stood out to you?
A: Every time I cook at RMHC, I feel reconnected to the mission. It’s such a simple act, but it makes a big difference in the lives of families staying at the House.
Q: As a board member, what do you hope to bring to RMHC?
A: I’m a very creative person, and I hope to bring fresh ideas to marketing and fundraising efforts. I’d love to explore innovative ways to enhance RMHC’s outreach and engagement.
Q: What do you think people should know about RMHC that they may not already realize?
A: Many people may not fully grasp just how many nights of stay RMHC provides to families. The personal stories of the families impacted are incredibly powerful, and sharing these stories can help more people understand the vital role RMHC plays in their lives.
Q: How do you see RMHC evolving or growing in the future?
A: I love the idea of expanding travel medical care initiatives to continue supporting families beyond the House itself. Finding new ways to extend RMHC’s reach will be key to its growth.
Q: If you had to describe RMHC in three words, what would they be?
A: Comforting. Supportive. Essential.
