Ohio State Department of Athletics Volunteers Time at Ronald McDonald House – Ohio State Buckeyes
5/4/2011 12:00:00 AM | General
COLUMBUS, Ohio – Despite weather conditions that would suggest a different season, the Ohio State Department of Athletics volunteered its time for some “spring cleaning” at the Ronald McDonald House of Columbus Wednesday.
Breaking into groups that each took a three hour shift, 90 volunteers from the athletic department spent time away from the office to help garden, clean, wash linens, sort inventory, organize the library, stuff mailings, stain woodwork and serve families breakfast and lunch.
“I just can’t tell you what a difference today has made,” volunteer manager Heidi Drake said. “Even though it was hectic and we were moving people all around we got so much done. This partnership has really benefited Ronald McDonald House and our families here and will continue to benefit as we go forward. It’s just incredible the support we get from a group like this.”
The second-largest in the world, the Columbus Ronald McDonald House serviced 2,500 seriously ill children and their families in 2010.
“It was great to come to the Ronald McDonald House and help out people less fortunate when they’re in a time of need and need a place stay,” assistant athletic director of event management Jerry Davis said. “My family and I spent a lot of time at the hospital with my son in November so I know it meant a lot to come here even if it was just cleaning up, staining some wood boards and pushing a mop around.”
For Lisa Doersam of the business office, being a parent made the experience even more touching.
“It (Ronald McDonald House) is such a great cause,” Doersam said. “Especially if you’re a parent, to see what it is like for these people who have sick children really breaks your heart. I can’t believe how many people volunteered today and I think we made a big impact. “
For more information on the Ronald McDonald House of Columbus or to volunteer or donate, please visit: www.rmhc-centralohio.org.
