News and Events
The Fourth Ronald McDonald House Opens in Campinas, Brazil…
This is also the 298th RMH in the World!
Coordinated by the Instituto Ronald McDonald, and operated by the Association of Parents and Friends of Children with Cancer and Homeopathies - APACC, the fourth Ronald McDonald House in Campinas, Brazil opens its doors to provide "a home away from home" for families of young cancer patients being treated at the Centro Infantil Boldrini and other nearby hospitals. This House, and 297 around the world, offers a place to call home at little or no cost so families can stay together, helping their children heal faster and cope better.
According to the Instituto Nacional de Cancer (INCA), in Brazil, cancer is the main cause of death in children ages five to 19. The new Ronald McDonald House, in addition to those other already existing in Rio de Janeiro, Santo Andre and Sao Paulo, is a testament of the commitment and dedication of the Instituto Ronald McDonald and its supporters to make a difference in the lives of children in Brazil.
The partnership between the Instituto Ronald McDonald and the APACC began in 2001. During this period, the partnership has contributed to a number of improvements in the organization. With the license to operate as Ronald McDonald House, and now joining the Global RMHC family and its high quality standard of care, international alignment and adoption of a modern technological system of management, the APACC adds value to the work already carried out in the region. "Instituto Ronald McDonald aims to contribute and disseminate best practices in pediatric cancer treatment in Brazil. Campinas represents an important care center, for its relevance on the national scene, hence the importance of recognition and further support to the work of excellence by APACC, now as a Ronald McDonald House,” said the Superintendent of Instituto Ronald McDonald, Francisco Neves.
BEM VINDO Ronald McDonald House in Campinas, Brazil; the entire RMHC system joins the celebration!
Kasey Kahne: Spreading the Word about RMHC and Helping Children Along the Way
Kasey Kahne, long-stand supporter and Celebrity Friend of RMHC, is featured in the July 2010 issue of NASCAR Illustrated. The article “Kasey Kahne Here to Help” features the many ways this successful NASCAR Sprint Cup Series driver has supported Ronald McDonald House Charities and the children served by our programs. More than signing a check, Kahne has been committed to donate his time and support local and national events benefiting RMHC.
Most recently, and also mentioned in this article, Kasey celebrated the 10-year milestone of the Ronald McDonald Care Mobile program by donating $50K toward a new Ronald McDonald Care Mobile. Through his “Drive to Care Campaign,” Kahne is challenging his fans and followers to visit www.drivetocare.org and help raise the $500,000 needed to put a new Ronald McDonald Care Mobile on the road in a neighborhood where high quality care for children is needed. Kasey knows that quality medical and dental care from the youngest age gives kids the green flag to a healthy and happy life. We are thankful and appreciative of his support. You can read the complete article here.
Net Proceeds from the Sale of Leadership Book to Benefit RMHC
Based on an analysis and groundbreaking study of CEOs that Heinz Chairman, President and CEO William R. Johnson sponsored, Preparing CEO’s for Success: What I Wish I Knew shares the insights and experiences of CEOs who have led some of the largest and most recognized public companies in the world. The book is a guide to developing strong business leaders. Net proceeds from the sale of the book will benefit Ronald McDonald House Charities.
Mr. Johnson chose RMHC based on his extensive involvement with Ronald McDonald House Charities of Pittsburgh, where he has served as co-chairman for the Capital Campaign Committee who collectively has raised $2.5 million to date for the new and expanded 60 bedroom Ronald McDonald House® in Pittsburgh. To read full story click here.
"Open Doors" Campaign: More than 53,000 Votes Were Cast. The Winning Ronald McDonald Care Mobile is Revealed!
After an overwhelming response to our poll where more than 53,000 people voted, Ronald McDonald House Charities of the Bluegrass and their Hazard, KY, Ronald McDonald Care Mobile won with a total of 12,385 people casting their vote. This program has provided over 10,000 children with dental services since opening in 2005. This $5,000 grant is being matched by their Board of Directors, so now even more children will receive critical health education to help them lead healthier and happier lives. Congratulations RMHC of the Bluegrass!
The other top markets that championed their supporters were: Chattanooga, TN with 6,841 votes; Tampa Bay, FL with 6,534 votes; Albany, NY with 4,067 votes, and Chicagoland and Northwest Indiana with 3,470 votes.
The Ronald McDonald Care Mobile “Open Doors” campaign was more than a voting initiative. By integrating digital and social media we were able to deepen relationships and engage our network of supporters and communities through online conversations on our Web site, Facebook, Twitter pages, and blogger posts. With this campaign, we reached more people than ever before. Visit our Media Room to read the complete story.
Kasey Kahne Raising $500K for RMHC
Kasey Kahne, driver of the #9 Budweiser Dodge car in the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series and a long-time supporter of RMHC, has teamed up with FOX Sports to get a new Ronald McDonald Care Mobile on the road. Kasey has agreed to kick off this campaign with a personal donation of $50,000, and he is challenging his fans and followers to visit www.drivetocare.org to help him raise the $500,000 needed get a RMCM up and running. Visit our Media Room for media materials.
The Ronald McDonald Care Mobile Opens the Door to High Quality Care for Children who Can't Get it Otherwise
Each year nearly 10 million children worldwide die from treatable, preventable diseases, and in the U.S. alone, it is estimated that 51 million school-hours are lost due to lack of dental care. RMHC is part of the solution to these issues. During March 15 - April 30, RMHC will be shining the light on how its unique programs, like the Ronald McDonald Care Mobile, open the door to improving children's access to high quality care. Click here to learn more about the impact of the 39 RMCM programs and vote to direct a $5,000 health education grant toward an existing RMHC Chapters' RMCM program. Media materials are available in our Media Room.
Annual McDonald's All American Games to Benefit RMHC of Central Ohio
Throughout the past three decades, the McDonald's All American Games have been the most prestigious showcase of high school basketball talent in the nation. Proceeds from the Games go to Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC) and our network of local Chapters. Millions of dollars have been raised for RMHC since the inception of the Games.
The Games have been an inspiration for young athletes, advocating the importance of not only succeeding on the court, but also off the court by giving back to worthy causes like RMHC. Each year during Game week, players visit a local Ronald McDonald House to better undertstand this important lesson. This year they will volunteer at the Columbus Ronald McDonald House.
Read the press release, learn more by going to www.mcdonaldsallamerican.com and follow the action of Game Week on Facebook, YouTube and Flickr
Meet 2009 RMHC/HACER National Scholarship Winner, Luis Duran
Luis Duran seems to know the secret of success. "To be successful in life you have to do ordinary things but with extraordinary persistence," said Luis during an interview with Univision in Chicago. Luis is the winner of the 2009 RMHC/HACER National Scholarship. He aspires to be an architect who will design buildings that provide refuge and inspiration in the community that supported his family during challenging times. RMHC is helping Luis achieve his goals. Learn more about his story by watching his interview.
Ronald McDonald House Charities Awards Nearly $3 Million to Non-Profit Organizations
In December 2009, RMHC awarded 15 new grants totaling $2.9 million to support non-profit organizations that will make an immediate, positive impact on the lives of vulnerable children in the areas of health prevention and promotion, clinical treatment and education in various countries around the world. These grants extend the impact of RMHC by providing children access to quality care and basic needs in Africa, Asia, Latin America and the United States. Additional information can be found in English and Spanish.
Share Your Heart for the Ronald McDonald Houses of the Carolinas
To raise funds for the Ronald McDonald Houses across the Carolinas, McDonald's restaurants in the region are encouraging people to "share their hearts" leading up to Valentine's Day. From January 26 until February 14, customers are encouraged to support the local Chapter by buying paper hearts for $1 when visiting participating McDonald's restaurants. The hearts, with the donor's name written on it, will be displayed in each restaurant. All proceeds will benefit the Ronald McDonald Houses across the Carolinas. More than 2,800 families stay at these Houses each year.
SAVE THE DATE: RMHC Celebrates the 25th Annual Awards of Excellence Gala Nov 7th, 2009
Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC) will host the 25th annual Awards of Excellence Gala on November 7th, 2009 at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center in Rosemont, Illinois. RMHC will celebrate three outstanding philanthropists whose passion for improving the lives of children has inspired the RMHC system. The Charity will honor McDonald’s owner/operators Jonah and Lynn Kaufman, Dr. Philip A. Pizzo, and NBA all-star Alonzo Mourning for their continued efforts to give back to the children of the communities in which they live and work.
Musical entertainment for the evening is under the direction of Grammy award winning artist Richard Marx who has invited a very special guest. It is guaranteed to a be a wonderful event and we encourage you to learn more and RSVP as soon as possible.
"None Of Us Is As Good As All Of Us" ~ Pat Harris, McDonald's Global Chief Diversity Officer, Publishes Book and All Profits Benefit RMHC
Patricia Sowell Harris, McDonald’s Global Chief Diversity Officer, offers the first inside look at how McDonald’s manages to translate its commitment to diversity into long term business success. Harris reveals how McDonald’s embraces all races, creeds and cultures to create unity and corporate prosperity. In keeping with McDonald’s corporate values, Harris is donating all the profits from the sale of the book to Ronald McDonald House Charities to support the Charity’s mission to help children and families in need around the world. Pat Harris' book is available at all major bookstores and online. Read more.
McDonald's Kicks off Soccer Competition to Support RMHC
The 2009 McDonald's soccer match will take place at 3:30 PM on Friday, October 9th at the Oak Brook Polo Club Soccer Fields to benefit Ronald McDonald House Charities. This year's fierce competition will feature the Corporate team against the Areas of the World team lead by Europe. Get ready for some gritty corporate competition! Attendance is free, so there's no excuse to not come out and support your Charity of Choice! Visit AccessMcD to learn more about the event.
Kasey Kahne continues to support Ronald McDonald House Charities through event "Raising Kahne for Kids"
Washington native, Kasey Kahne, driver of the No. 9 Budweiser Dodge Charger in the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series, and Sound Harley-Davidson, a Marysville, Wash. motorcycle dealer, have teamed up to present "Raising Kahne for Kids" benefit motorcycle ride on Sunday, Sept. 13th to raise funds for the Kasey Kahne Foundation, whose beneficiaries include local charities like the Ronald McDonald House in Seattle and Ronald McDonald House Charities.
Click here to read press release
Ryan Seacrest to Host Atlanta Ronald McDonald House Charities Hearts and Hands Gala October 24th
Atlanta Ronald McDonald House Charities (ARMHC) announces its Hearts and Hands Gala at 7 PM on Saturday, October 24, at the World of Coca-Cola. Atlanta's own Ryan Seacrest of "American Idol" will serve as host of the black-tie dinner which will feature live entertainment and a silent auction. The Coca-Cola Company is the event's presenting sponsor.
Pictured at a kick-off reception at the World of Coca-Cola for the Hearts and Hands Gala is from left to right:
Javier Goizueta, Vice President, The Coca-Cola Company, President of the McDonald’s Division Worldwide, Hearts and Hands Gala Event Chair
Linda M. Morris, President/CEO, Atlanta Ronald McDonald House Charities (ARMHC)
Bob Morrison, Chairman, ARMHC
Click here to read the press release
RMHC Makes Its Way Onto Ashely Force Hood's Funny Car
Funny Car points leader and NHRA fan favorite Ashley Force Hood will race a specially designed Ronald McDonald House Charities-themed Castrol GTX Ford Mustang during:
The 22nd annual NHRA Northwest Nationals
Seattle, WA
July 17-19
The 22nd annual FRAM Autolite NHRA Nationals
Sonoma, CA
July 24-26, in Sonoma (CA).
Read press release for more info.
RMHC China Holds 3rd Annual Golf Fundraiser
The 3rd Annual Golf Fundraiser for RMHC China is being held September 24, 2009 at the Beijing Cascades Country Club. They've lined up a great course, fantastic food, and an amazing auction. Space is limited to 22 foursomes - so sign up now.
Please confirm your participation by contacting Mark Moss at mark@avidgolfchina.com
Run for a Cause: 2009 Bank of America Chicago Marathon
This year, nearly 100 Charity Runners have signed up to run 26.2 miles for RMHC in the Bank of America Chicago Marathon on October 11, 2009. It will take months of training, sweat and determination and in the end they hope to raise $250,000 and cross the finish line for RMHC. We are incredibly grateful for their support.
As of August 28, 2009 we still have limited Charity runner entries available! Call us to sign up.
Details to Get Involved and support Team RMHC
All American Games to Benefit RMHC of South Florida
For three decades, the McDonald's All American Games has been a prestigious showcase of high school basketball and fundraiser for Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC) and its local Chapters.
Players visit a local Ronald McDonald House to understand the importance of using their talents to help others and put into perspective what the Games are all about – giving back. They’ll be visiting the Ronald McDonald House of South Florida on Sunday, March 29.
Games
When: Wednesday, April 1
- Boys Game tip off at 8:00 p.m. EST, broadcasts live on ESPN
- Girls Game tip off at 5:30 p.m. EST, broadcasts live on ESPNU
Where: BankUnited Center in Miami, FL
Buy tickets
POWERade Jam Fest
When: Monday, March 30
- Qualifying competition begins at 7:00p.m. EST
- Finals begin at 8:00p.m. EST, broadcasting live on ESPN2
Where: BankUnited Center in Miami, FL
Buy tickets
Check out the new All American blog, Inside the Games, to see the latest information and hear from some of basketball's biggest experts.
Kasey Kahne Foundation to Host Atlanta Concert
NASCAR driver, long-time RMHC supporter and Celebrity Friend Kasey Kahne is teaming up with multi-platinum country music star Dierks Bentley to host the Sound Check 9 concert, a fundraiser for his foundation. A performance by Dierks will follow an on-stage Q&A with Kasey. And it starts with a private meet-and-greet with Kasey and Dierks for VIP ticket holders.
Date: March 5, 2009
Time: Doors open at 7 pm
Location: Wild Bills, Atlanta, GA
The Kasey Kahne Foundation raises and donates funds to charitable organizations that care for chronically ill children and their families. It's dedicated to positive cultural changes by giving underprivileged boys and girls ample opportunities for success.
» More about Kasey and All Our Celebrity Friends
Thanks to all that attended this event. The Kasey Kahne Foundation raised over $55,000!
Superdad in Super Bowl Ad
The TV ads run during the Super Bowl each year have become almost as anticipated as the big game itself. It's no surprise, they're impressive commericals that play to one of the largest television audiences of the year.
To support Ronald McDonald House Charities and highlight the work the Charity does to help 4 million families a year, McDonald's USA chose to air a 30-second spot featuring RMHC pre-kick off. If this year's broadcast gets as many viewers as last year's, more than 97 million people will see the commercial and learn just how easy it is to support RMHC; they’ll see first-hand how small acts of kindness add up to make a difference in the lives of millions of children.
Campaigning for Good HealthMaking the most of the corporate donor relationship with USA Today, RMHC hit the newspaper in November with a campaign featuring four different ads. The “ads” were actually personal stories, focusing on a handful of people who received help from Ronald McDonald House Charities over the year.
The newspaper campaign provided glimpses into the successful treatment of two young, inspirational fighters. You can watch videos of their full stories on our video player.
India Wilcox: A Lesson in Courage
Tina Marie: Opening the Door to Care
See a PDF of the newspaper campaign.
Awards of Excellence, November 2008
AOE is an event that honors dedicated professionals whose pioneering work improves young people’s lives. At the annual event in Chicago, the $100,000 Award of Excellence is presented to the recipient as a donation to the charitable organization of the individual’s choice. The recipients for 2008 are:
- Peter and Virginia Ueberroth, RMHC Award of Excellence
- Catherine D. De Angelis, M.D., M.P.H., RMHC Medical Award of Excellence
- Lionel Whitehead, Gerry Newman McTLC Award of Excellence
Past recipients include: Nancy Reagan, Jim Henson, Jimmy Carter, Fred Rogers
