HeartBEATS
JAN
DURING YOUR VISIT TO MCDONALD’S Donate (or
Introducing - Hearts & Clays Sporting Clays Tournament
heart on social media for win! See details below
Share your heart on social media for a chance to win! See details below
Share your heart on social media for a chance to win! See details below
Share your heart media for a chance to details w
Share your heart on social media for a chance to win! See details below
AND BENEFIT SPRINGFIELD’S TWO RONALD MCDONALD HOUSE® PROGRAMS
Our 33rd Annual Share a Heart Campaign!
JAN 29 THROUGH 28
Mark your calendar for January 29–February 28, 2026, and get ready to share the love! 2026 marks the 33rd year of our Share a Heart Campaign! This year, we will highlight powerful stories from families who have stayed at our Houses—sharing how your support helps keep families close when it matters most.
$ 1 $ 5 $20
JAN 29 THROUGH FEB 28
Every donated dollar goes directly to support Springfield’s Two Ronald McDonald House Programs.
Every donated dollar goes directly to support Springfield’s Two Ronald McDonald House Programs. heart on social media for win! See details below
receive a red, pink or gold heart on which to Share your heart in our social media contest for a MasterCard Gift Card from Great Southern Bank by more signed hearts to the RMH of the Ozarks
receive a red, pink or gold heart on which to Share your heart in our social media contest for a MasterCard Gift Card from Great Southern Bank by more signed hearts to the RMH of the Ozarks
Every donated dollar goes directly to support Springfield’s Two Ronald McDonald House Programs.
Every donated dollar goes directly to support Springfield’s Two Ronald McDonald House Programs.
Share your heart on social media for a chance to win! See details below.
Every donated goes directly support Springfield’s Two Ronald McDonald House Programs.
Every donated dollar goes directly to support Springfield’s Two Ronald McDonald House Programs.
Participating McDonald’s locations across the Ozarks will be selling hearts, with proceeds benefiting Ronald McDonald House of the Ozarks. Supporters who purchase a heart and enter our social media contest will be entered to win one of four $250 gift cards, courtesy of Great Southern Bank! To enter for the drawings, “Like” the Ronald McDonald House of the Ozarks page “@RMH.Ozarks”, post a photo of you with your signed heart, tag our Facebook page in your post, and include the campaign hashtag, #forRMHOzarks Official rules are available at ShareAHeart.org.
Mark your calendar for Friday, April 17, 2026, for Hearts & Clays at Ozark Shooters Sports Complex. Ronald McDonald House Charities of the Ozarks is proud to introduce a brandnew sporting clays tournament—an exciting outdoor fundraising event where community members, corporate teams, and outdoor enthusiasts can come together to support families staying at our two Springfield Ronald McDonald House programs.
Located in Springfield, MO, the Ronald McDonald House near Cox South Hospital and the House at Mercy Kids provide lodging, hope and comfort for families of seriously ill children who travel far from home for medical treatment. Nearly 17,500 families have benefited from the Houses since 1988.
Located in Springfield, MO, the Ronald McDonald House near Cox South Hospital and the House at Mercy Kids provide lodging, hope and comfort for families of seriously ill children who travel far from home for medical treatment. Nearly 17,500 families have benefited from the Houses since 1988.
Located in Springfield, MO, the Ronald McDonald House near Cox South Hospital and the House at Mercy Kids provide lodging, hope and comfort for families of seriously ill children who travel far from home for medical treatment. Nearly 17,500 families have benefited from the Houses since 1988.
you receive a pink or on to name. Share heart in our media contest for a MasterCard Gift from Great by or more signed the RMH of the Ozarks hashtag #forRMHOzarks. January $250 gift cards be awarded by a Winners will be notified by
“RMH.Ozarks” using hashtag #forRMHOzarks. This Four $250 gift cards will be awarded by a Winners will be notified by RMHC of the Ozarks.
29 THROUGH FEB 28 or gold heart on which to social media contest for a Great Southern Bank by to the RMH of the Ozarks #forRMHOzarks. This cards will be awarded by a notified by RMHC of the Ozarks.
29 THROUGH FEB 28 or gold heart on which to social media contest for a from Great Southern Bank by to the RMH of the Ozarks #forRMHOzarks. This cards will be awarded by a notified by RMHC of the Ozarks.
“RMH.Ozarks” using hashtag #forRMHOzarks. This Four $250 gift cards will be awarded by a Winners will be notified by RMHC of the Ozarks.
donation, you will receive a red, pink or gold heart on which to name. Share your heart in our social media contest for a $250 MasterCard Gift Card from Great Southern Bank by with one or more signed hearts to the RMH of the Ozarks “RMH.Ozarks” using hashtag #forRMHOzarks. This January 29. Four $250 gift cards will be awarded by a drawing. Winners will be notified by RMHC of the Ozarks.
Located in Springfield, MO, Ronald McDonald House near Cox South Hospital and the House at Mercy Kids provide lodging, comfort for families of seriously ill who travel from home for medical Nearly have benefited from the Houses since 1988.
With each donation, you will receive a red, pink or gold heart on which to proudly sign your name. Share your heart in our social media contest for a chance to win a $250 MasterCard Gift Card from Great Southern Bank by posting a selfie with one or more signed hearts to the RMH of the Ozarks Facebook page, “RMH.Ozarks” using hashtag #forRMHOzarks. This giveaway begins January 29. Four $250 gift cards will be awarded by a weekly random drawing. Winners will be notified by RMHC of the Ozarks.
Every donated dollar goes directly to support Springfield’s Two Ronald McDonald House Programs.
Located in Springfield, MO, the Ronald McDonald House near Cox South Hospital and the House at Mercy Kids provide lodging, hope and comfort for families of seriously ill children who travel far from home for medical treatment. Nearly 17,500 families have benefited from the Houses since 1988.
Annual operating expenses for the Houses exceed $1 million – a need met by donations from people like you. Your Share a Heart donation will keep families together, and near the care and resources they need!
Annual operating expenses for the Houses exceed $1 million – a need met by donations from people like you. Your Share a Heart donation will keep families together, and near the care and resources they need!
Annual operating expenses for the Houses exceed $1 million – a need met by donations from people like you. Your Share a Heart donation will keep families together, and near the care and resources they need!
Located in Springfield, MO, the Ronald McDonald House near Cox South Hospital and the House at Mercy Kids provide lodging, hope and comfort for families of seriously ill children who travel far from home for medical treatment. Nearly 17,500 families have benefited from the Houses since 1988. Annual operating expenses for the Houses exceed $1 million – a need met by donations from people like you. Your Share a Heart donation will keep families together, and near the care and resources they need!
Annual operating for the Houses exceed $1 million – a need met by from people like you. a Heart donation will keep families the and resources they need!
Annual operating expenses for the Houses exceed $1 million – a need met by donations from people like you. Your Share a Heart donation will keep families together, and near the care and resources they need!
We are so grateful for every family that was willing to share their story with us. Special thanks to Brenda Podewitz, along with staff at both Houses for helping to compile family stories and photos. To read the incredible stories of families who have been impacted by our Houses, visit ShareAHeart.org.
Located in Springfield, MO, the Ronald McDonald House near Cox South Hospital and the House at Mercy Kids provide lodging, hope and comfort for families of seriously ill children who travel far from home for medical treatment. Nearly 17,500 families have benefited from the Houses since 1988. Annual operating expenses for the Houses exceed $1 million – a need met by donations from people like you. Your Share a Heart donation will keep families together, and near the care and resources they need!
Set against a beautiful Ozarks backdrop, participants will enjoy a day of friendly competition, great food, prizes, and camaraderie, all while helping provide a “home-awayfrom-home” for families with children facing medical challenges. Every pull, every clay, and every team makes a meaningful difference—ensuring parents can stay close to their hospitalized child when it matters most. For more information on how to get involved, contact Ashley French at ashley.french@rmhcozarks.org.
Birthdays
October 5
Justin Wilson
Ashley Kalil
October 13
Alexis Baker
October 17
Lindsey Allen
October 21
Jessica Steward
October 24
Julie Holt
October 26
Reed Hopper
October 28
Beka Resor
November 12
Chiquita Hendrick
November 13
Austin Gormley
November 14
Meredith Bosso
November 19
Ben Heaney
November 26
Jessica Tindall
December 1
Molly Stood
December 6
Sandy Emberton
December 9
Madyson Lytton
Larry Meinson
Grace Stagner
December 19
Gabriella Norcross
December 23
Vanessa Goetz
Heart Beats is published quarterly for volunteers of Ronald McDonald House Charities of the Ozarks and The Tooth Truck, Inc.
©2026 RMHC
The following trademarks used herein are owned by McDonald’s Corporation and its affiliates and are used under license: Ronald McDonald House Charities, Ronald McDonald House Charities logo, Ronald McDonald House, Ronald McDonald Care Mobile, RMHC, Keeping Families Close.
The Tooth Truck name and logo are owned by The Tooth Truck, Inc.
A Night of Celebration and Impact at the 11th Annual Red Shoe Gala
On October 10, 2025, guests filled the White River Conference Center for an unforgettable evening at the 11th Annual Red Shoe Gala. Supporters, volunteers, and friends gathered in their best red shoes to celebrate the mission of Ronald McDonald House Charities of the Ozarks and raise a record $342,471 to support the Ronald McDonald House and Tooth Truck programs!
The night was filled with high-energy entertainment from Red Light Runner, adding to the festive atmosphere and keeping guests on their feet. The most memorable moments came when Cooper Roy shared his inspirational story, reminding everyone of the lifechanging impact Ronald McDonald House has on families during their most difficult days. And watching Tyberius, a recent patient on the Ronald McDonald Care Mobile, dance the night away with his mom, and then our emcee, KY3’s Jackie Garrity.
Thanks to the generosity of attendees, sponsors, and community partners, this year’s Gala was not only a celebration, but a powerful demonstration of compassion in action.
2025 Cup O’Cheer Homes Tour Holiday Tea & Market A Day to Remember
The 2025 Cup O’Cheer Homes Tour, Holiday Tea & Market on Friday, November 21 was the perfect way to jump-start the holiday season. This year’s event sold over 1,100 tickets and raised over $87,000! Guests spent the day touring 4 beautifully decorated homes, browsing the Holiday Market for great finds, and relaxing over delicious tea, treats, and conversation with friends. The whole event was filled with cozy holiday vibes, laughter, and lots of sparkle.
This year’s Market moved to Fellowship Bible Church, providing a beautiful facility with ample space for vendors, as well as tea and desserts. A special thank you to the staff of FBC for their incredible hospitality and to Dillard’s for providing the festive holiday decor that topped off the perfect atmosphere.
The Holiday Market was bustling with shoppers discovering handmade goodies, seasonal décor, and one-of-a-kind gifts. The tea offered a lovely chance to slow down, catch up with friends, and soak in the holiday spirit. Every detail—from the twinkling decorations to the warm hospitality—helped make the day feel truly special.
We are incredibly grateful to the many volunteers who make Cup O’ Cheer possible. It truly takes a village to pull off this event, and we couldn’t do it without the commitment of so many generous people. Last, but certainly not least, we are truly grateful to the homeowners who graciously allowed their beautiful homes to be featured on our 27th annual Cup O’ Cheer Homes Tour. We can’t wait to do it again next year!
From The Staff Heart of the House
Happy Anniversary
1 year
Sarah Seiden
2 Years
Chiquita Hendrick
3 Years
Molly Stood
4 Years
Julie Holt
8 years
Beka Resor
10 years
Grace Stagner
Travis Weitzel
15 Years
Amy Grubaugh
HAPPY WHEELS WISH LIST
Small bottles of lotion
Mini hand sanitizers
Activity books
(crossword puzzles, Sudoku, word finder)
Small packs of crayons for the activity books
Travel manicure sets
Chapstick
Individual packs of Kleenex
Individually packaged snacks (Goldfish, granola bars, Teddy Grahams, gum, mints, Lifesavers, etc.)
12-ounce water bottles
House Near Cox South
Current Active Volunteers:
Lynette Brady
Terri Carr
Olivia Cason
Barry Chole
Sunjaya Colton
Jude Daves
Sandy Davis
Blake Dowdy
Shantel Doyle
Vanessa Goetz
Amy Grubaugh
Ni Hnem
Briana Jenkins
Landon McMillen
Regina Marshall
Eileen Meinsen
Larry Meinsen
Morgan Mitchell
Don Nance
Gabriella Norcross
Donna Patterson
Kailey Plaskett
Brenda Podewitz
Beka Rasor
Becky Reser
Crystal Schneider
Welcome, New Volunteers to the Cox House:
Allison Skidmore
Randy Slocum
Adriana Smith
Grace Stagner
Kim Stagner
Ivy Starks
Gail Sours
Paul Walley
Kellie Wirtz
Abigail Weitzel
Joanna Weitzel
Scott Weitzel
Travis Weitzel
Lynette Brady, Jude Daves, Landon McMillen, Gabriella Norcross, Adriana Smith
House At Mercy Kids
Current Active Volunteers:
Samantha Ball
Aly Brown
Sandy Emberton
Tristian Failla
Alana Foster
Ann Griesemer
Sarah Han
Carol Harris
Chiquita Hendrick
Julia Herigodt
Zachary McCubbins
Alexandra Ross
Barb Ruark
Kathy Rice
Molly Stood
Welcome, NewVolunteer, Julia Herigodt, to the House at Mercy Kids!
RMHC Staff
President & CEO
Bonnie Keller
Director of Finance & Administration
Debbie Kinser
Tooth Truck Program
Director
Mindy Muñoz
Director of Philanthropy
Ashley French
Director of Programs
Justin Wilson
Development Assistant
Kim Booth
Development Coordinator
Randell Boggs
Volunteer Coordinator
Baylor Hodges
RONALD MCDONALD HOUSE
NEAR COX SOUTH
Program Manager
Danielle Harp
Program Assistant
Austin Gormley
Family Care Managers
Tristan Adee
Lindsey Allen
Alexis Baker
Erin Buff
Anna Majerus
Makayla Martin-Wise
RONALD MCDONALD HOUSE AT MERCY KIDS
Program Manager
Marisa Baese
Program Assistant
Megan Mashburn
Family Care Managers
Lindsey Allen
Skylar Ball
Jennifer Grooms
Julie Holt
Anna Majerus
Makayla Martin-Wise
Jack Osborn
FAMILY DINNER SPOTLIGHT
Fordland Church of Christ – Lindsey Allen (Cox and Mercy House)
One of the most impactful ways to support families is through our Meals from the Heart program. Below, one of our dedicated volunteers shares her personal journey from being a guest at a Ronald McDonald House to leading a dinner group, and why she finds this service so deeply rewarding.
When did your group start providing meals for the families at the Ronald McDonald House?
In August of 2017, shortly after my family stayed at the Ronald McDonald House in St. Louis because of a surgery my son had. What are your favorite things about participating in the Meals from the Heart program?
Knowing that something as simple as a warm, home-cooked meal can bring comfort and a sense of normalcy to families who are facing stressful times. I was a preemie myself, born at 29 weeks and spent 60 days in the NICU. Getting to share my story with other families that are currently dealing with a similar situation and giving them hope is always special too.
Do you have any favorite memories?
Some of our favorite memories are the small interactions, smiles, thank you's and conversions we have with families who are so grateful. A more specific one would be one night we made dinner at the Cox House, and a mom had just checked in who just had her baby. He was in the NICU and she was recovering from a C-section. We had made sopapilla cheesecake for dessert, and she said it was the best thing she had ever had in her life.
What would you say to other groups who are considering volunteering?
I would absolutely encourage them to do it! It may seem simple, but it really helps the families that are staying there so much. As someone who has stayed at a Ronald McDonald House with my son, it is one of the things I remember most. It is ultimately what made me decide to get involved. Also, the experience is so rewarding and the need for dinner groups is always there. You don’t have to do anything; just showing up with a willing heart and a smile makes a huge difference. It is a simple way to serve that leaves a lasting impact on everyone.
DINNER GROUPS!
RONALD MCDONALD HOUSE NEAR COX SOUTH
ADsmith Marketing & Advertising
Annie Urhlauv
Barnabas Foundation
Bayada Home Healthcare
Cash Family
Circle 7- United Methodist Church
Cox CVICU
Cox Health IT
Cox Pediatrics
DMP Cares
Friends of Blue Silo Farm
Glendale FCCLA
Hamilton Family
Judy Chalene
Larry Hayes
LDS Church- Chesterfield
Little Sunshine Preschool
McLain Family
McShane Family
Megan Welch
Mercy Culinary Department
MSU Women’s Golf
Myers Industries/Buckhorn
New Start Church
NOVA
Nuventure Farms
Oak Grove Church On Angel's Wings
Parkcrest Baptist Church
Pleasant Hope NHS
Pyatt Dental
Republic HS Tiger Court
Ryan's Lawn and Tree
RONALD MCDONALD HOUSE AT MERCY KIDS
Ball Family
Bambinos
Breauna Cater
Bricktown Brewery
Christian County Kiwanis Club
Commerce Bank
Courageous Church
Cowger Family
Cross & Crown Church
Drury University Exercise
Physiology Club
Emmaus House Church
Esther Hutchens
Fordland Church of Christ
Giddens & Tindall Families
Heather Follis
Hicks Family
Jordan Heinz State Farm
Julie Pappenfort
Kamryn Hesington Family
Little Caesar’s Pizza
Marine Corp League Auxiliary
Marshfield McDonald’s
Mercy Administration
Mercy Clinic Neurosurgery
Mercy Epic Mission Control
Mercy EVS Leadership
Mercy Gastroenterology
Mercy Heart Hospital
Mercy Nutritional Services
Mercy Pharmacy
Mercy Pre-Registration
Mercy Radiology
Mercy Regional Resource Nurses
Monett Community Church
Murray-Shaner Families
Springfield Restoration Branch
Spurgeon Family
Team Janet
Team Mayor McCheese
Thomas Family
Union Hill
University Plaza
Whitney Miller
Wingo Family
Women to Women
North Point Church On Angels’ Wings
Pizza Ranch
Rotary Club of North Springfield
SBU Nursing
Smith Family
The Golden Girls
TownePlace Suites
University Plaza Hotel
Wardenhausen Family
Wiegard Family
Ziggie’s Cafe
We've got several opportunities for you and your friends, organization, or family to adopt one of our open family dinner dates. Be sure to check our website for the most current openings. https://rmhcozarks.org/ volunteers/meals-fromthe-heart/
COX:
1/29, 1/30, 1/31, 2/1, 2/2. 2/4, 2/5, 2/7, 2/8, 2/9, 2/11, 2/14, 2/15, 2/26, 2/27, 2/28, 3/1, ¾, 3/5, 3/6, 3/7, 3/8. 3/9, 3/11, 3/14, 3/22,3/26, 3/27, 3/28, 3/29, 3/30, 3/31
MERCY: 1/30, 1/31, 2/1, 2/2, 2/6, 2/7, 2/9, 2/19, 2/20, 2/21, 2/22, 2/23, 2/26, 2/28, 3/1, 3/2, 3/4, 3/6, 3/7, 3/8, 3/11, 3/15, 3/16, 3/18, 3/19, 3/20, 3/21, 3/22, 3/28, 3/29, 3/30, 3/31
Around the Houses
HOUSE
WISH LIST
Food Items
Shelf stable milk
K-Cups
Individual coffee creamer
Individually wrapped snacks
Canned soda
Bottled water
Gift Cards
Gas cards
Walmart Amazon Target
Family Items
Beauty gift sets for women
Body wash sets for men
Adult and child activity
books
Travel coffee mugs
Deodorant
Fleece throw blankets
Small gifts for children
Gifts for teens
Miscellaneous
Items
White Queen fitted sheets
White matching bath towels
Bakeware
Cookie sheets
Set of pots and pans
Daily planners
Lip balm
Small bottles of lotion
Crayons
Blank note cards
Notebooks
Board games
Rubik’s cubes and mind
puzzles
Playing cards
Travel-size hand sanitizer
Travel manicure sets
Individual packs of tissues
On-the-go drink mixes
Small stuffed animals
Sweatpants (all sizes)
Boys, Girls, Mens and Womens Underwear (new and unopened) – all sizes
Kitchen & Dining Room Remodel at the House Near Cox South
As we kick off the new year, we are thrilled to share some exciting news regarding our Ronald McDonald House near Cox South Hospital. On January 12, we started a comprehensive kitchen and dining room remodel! This project is a major step in ensuring our "home-away-from-home" remains a state-of-the-art, comforting environment for the families we serve.
While we are already looking forward to the unveiling of these amazing new spaces in mid-2026, the renovation does present a temporary challenge: the House will be without a fully functioning kitchen during construction.
How You Can Help Keep "Meals from the Heart" Cooking
Our commitment to providing a warm, nutritious dinner every single evening of the year remains as strong as ever. Because we cannot host our traditional on-site cooking groups while the kitchen is under construction, we are leaning on our incredible community to help us sustain our “Meals from the Heart” program in the following ways:
Catered Meals: We are seeking groups, businesses, or individuals to provide and deliver fully catered dinners for our families.
Gift Cards: Donations of restaurant or grocery gift cards are more vital than ever, offering our guests flexible dining options while our kitchen is offline.
We are deeply grateful for the unwavering support and patience of our volunteers and donors as we navigate this transition. We can’t wait to share the "after" photos with you in 2026, but in the meantime, thank you for helping us keep our families fed and well-cared for!
Christmas Decorating Tradition at The Mercy House
We want to shine a light on one of our most dedicated holiday volunteers, Jane Paul, and express our thanks for her continued commitment to our mission. For more than a decade, Jane has shared her professional interior design talents with us, bringing holiday magic to our families with her incredible decorating flair.
This beautiful tradition began after Jane's own family utilized the Ronald McDonald House during her granddaughter Elise's hospitalization. Today, we are so grateful that Jane chooses to volunteer her time every holiday season to honor Elise, creating a warm, welcoming, and beautifully adorned space for families who need it most.
House Volunteer Spotlight
Ben Heaney has been volunteering at the Ronald McDonald House near Cox South since May 2024. During that time, Ben worked diligently to complete his bachelor’s degree at Missouri State University. He is now a recent graduate with a Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Sciences- Cell and Molecular Biology, and his next steps include applying to medical school. We look forward to seeing Ben each week and hearing updates about his life, including his medical school application and interview process, as well as his upcoming wedding to his fiancée, Corinne. Ben is reliable, consistent, and holds himself to a high standard, ensuring that every task he is given is completed thoroughly and thoughtfully.
We are always glad to see Ben walk through the door. Thank you, Ben, for your hard work, dedication, and continued service to the Ronald McDonald House near Cox.
Q&A SECTION
What is your favorite thing to do in the House?
Organize items to make others’ efforts that much more seamless.
What do you enjoy in your free time? Driving (real or in a simulator), lifting, dog training/walking.
How did you learn about the Ronald McDonald House?
One of my physician mentors volunteered at this house years ago when he was in the same phase of his career.
What do you enjoy most about volunteering with our organization?
The people! It is impossible to find someone with an RMHC badge not smiling, and I feel valued for my effortsI'm not just another volunteer.
What is a fun fact few people would know about you?
I have been to all major league baseball stadiums.
Mercy InternshipHouse
The Mercy House was brightened this fall by the hard work and dedication of our intern, Molly Stood. Between August and December, Molly contributed over 300 hours of service, providing vital office assistance, event support, and family programming—all while bringing a contagious smile to the House every single day!
Molly’s journey with RMHC began as a volunteer in 2022. This year, she took her commitment to the next level by completing her internship as part of her Child Life college studies. This expanded role allowed her to dive deeper into our mission, from creating new family programs and visiting hospital units to providing essential House coverage.
Her impact will be felt long after her internship concludes, as she helped develop process improvements and enhanced family offerings like our Cultivating Connections program.
An internship at the Ronald McDonald House is a fantastic way for both new and current volunteers to enhance their impact. Both of our Houses benefit immensely from the fresh perspectives and dedicated support interns provide.
If you or someone you know is looking for a meaningful way to gain professional experience while giving back to families, please reach out to us!
Fall Outing
Our 2025 Fall Outing at Rutledge-Wilson Farm Park was a huge success! Nearly 100 volunteers and board members— the backbone of our organization—joined us for a beautiful day of hayrides, Cow Train rides, and bounce house fun. Between the gorgeous weather and the endless supply of hamburgers and hot dogs, it was the perfect way to celebrate the people who make our work possible. Thank you for being the heart of what we do—we’re already looking forward to 2026!
The Heart of the Holidays: Bringing Magic to Santa’s Workshop
The holiday season is a time for family, tradition, and the magic of giving. However, for families staying at our two Ronald McDonald Houses, the holidays can also bring added stress as they focus on the health of a hospitalized child. To help lighten this load, Santa’s Workshop officially opened its doors on Monday, December 8th, transforming our Houses into festive hubs of hope and joy.
Santa’s Workshop provides a unique opportunity for parents to "shop" for their loved ones—completely free of charge. This program ensures that even in the midst of a medical crisis, the spirit of the season remains intact, allowing families to focus on what truly matters: being together.
Personal Touches from Sprout Business Group
We are especially grateful to Sprout Business Group for their heartwarming and ongoing support this holiday season. Their kindness went directly into the hands of our guests through beautifully prepared, individual gift bags for every single family staying at both the House near Cox South and the House near Mercy Kids.
Packed with goodies and much-appreciated gift cards, these bags provided a personal touch that made the season significantly brighter. This generous gesture served as a powerful reminder to our families that their community is walking alongside them during their most challenging times.
A Shopping Spree to Remember with Kohl’s
Adding to the magic, a generous $1,000 grant from Kohl’s allowed our team to stock the workshop shelves with high-demand items. Our staff went on an incredible shopping spree, hand-selecting 139 items to ensure we had something for everyone.
From the latest toys for children of all ages to practical and thoughtful gifts for parents, the Kohl’s grant helped us bridge the gap and ensure that no one was left off the list. We know our adult guests are just as deserving of a holiday surprise, and this donation made sure every member of the family felt seen and celebrated.
The Heartbeat of the Workshop: Our Community
While these large contributions are transformative, the foundation of Santa’s Workshop is built by you—our local Ozarks community. Throughout the month, we have been moved by the steady stream of donations from individuals, families, and local groups who dropped off toys, clothing, and holiday essentials.
Every board game, stuffed animal, and gift card donated by a neighbor represents a smile on a child’s face and a weight lifted off a parent’s shoulders. These collective acts of kindness are what make our Houses a true "home away from home."
A Season of Gratitude
Because of the combined generosity of Sprout Business Group, Kohl’s, and our incredible community donors, the holiday spirit is shining brighter than ever within our walls. Thank you for your continued kindness and for helping us provide a sanctuary of joy for our families this December.
Baylor Hodges Named Volunteer Coordinator
We are excited to announce a significant evolution within our team at Ronald McDonald House Charities of the Ozarks. Baylor Hodges, a familiar and friendly face to many of our families and volunteers, has transitioned into the newly created role of Volunteer Coordinator. Baylor joined our mission in April 2025 and has spent the past year serving with excellence as the Associate Program Manager at our House near Cox South. Her deep "on-the-ground" experience at the House makes her the perfect fit to lead, grow, and advocate for our dedicated volunteer force. In this new capacity, Baylor will oversee the recruitment, onboarding, and engagement strategies for volunteers across all of our programs. This position was established to ensure that every individual who gifts us their time receives the training and support they need to make a meaningful impact. Having assisted with daily operations at the Cox House, Baylor possesses a unique perspective on how vital our volunteers are to maintaining a "homeaway-from-home" environment. We are confident that she will further strengthen the bonds within our community and enhance the experience for everyone who steps through our doors to serve.
A Warm Welcome to Our New House Program Assistants!
Please join us in welcoming Austin Gormley as the new Program Assistant for our House near Cox South, and Megan Mashburn as the Program Assistant for our House at Mercy Kids. Both Austin and Megan are already deeply rooted in our mission, having previously served the organization in other capacities. We are especially proud to share that this transition marks Austin’s first time joining us as a full-time staff member, and we are incredibly excited to see both of them bring their unique energy to these new roles.
In these positions, Austin and Megan will work side-byside with our Program Managers to oversee the heartbeat of the Houses. By assisting with essential day-to-day activities—from supporting volunteer efforts to ensuring our facilities are always guest-ready—they provide the critical support needed to keep our programs running seamlessly.
Ultimately, these appointments are all about enhancing the family experience. With Austin and Megan on board, we can offer even more personalized attention to the families staying with us, ensuring that every need is met with a familiar and caring face. Their presence ensures that while parents focus on the health of their children, they have a dedicated team working behind the scenes to provide a comfortable, supportive, and stress-free environment.
INGREDIENTS:
• 1 Stick Butter
• 2 teaspoons vanilla
• 2 cans crescent rolls
• 2- 8oz packages cream cheese
• 2 Cups Sugar
INSTRUCTIONS:
1. Spray a 9x13 pan and press in 1 can of crescent rolls.
2. Mix cream cheese, 1 cup of sugar, 1 teaspoon vanilla. Put mixture on top of crescent rolls. Top the mixture with the second can of crescent rolls. Pinch the dough together so no holes are on top.
3. Melt butter and add 1 Cup of sugar and 1 teaspoon of vanilla. Stir and pour over the top layer of crescent rolls. Sprinkle cinnamon over the top.
4. Bake at 350 for 30 minutes uncovered.
5. Let it cool and enjoy!
Volunteers
Jackson Carroll
Kenzie Denney
Bianca Dunlap
Kia Gould
Kaylee Ludwig
Heart of the Truck Tooth Talk OTC Dental Students Support Healthy Smiles
Joslyn Magers
Sherri Murdaugh
Brayden Pierce
Samara Sims
Zina Umran
Sophia Webert
Ella Werner
Anniversaries
1 Year
Aburey Sparrow
Sophia Webert
Birthdays
October 15
Kaylee Ludwig
October 22
Dr. Whitney Bair
October 23
Brayden Pierce
November 3
Kenzie Denney
November 7
Patsy Santiago
Dr. Howard Shayne
November 10
Sophia Webert
November 11
Dr. Emily Rockne
November 24
Dr. Misty Shelton
December 3
Zina Umran
December 25
Dr. Craig Scott
December 28
Sherri Murdaugh
December 31
Lilly Sweeney
by April Womack
Early one morning, the Ronald McDonald House near Cox was filled with learning, service, and plenty of smiles as OTC dental students arrived for a special class experience. During their visit, students learned about the many ways the Ronald McDonald Houses support families in our community, and how the Tooth Truck works to promote healthy smiles. After learning about our mission, students rolled up their sleeves to make a hands-on impact. Together, they spent time assembling hundreds of take-home bags that will be distributed to children participating in the Healthy Smiles Academy brushing program. The Healthy Smiles Academy is designed to help children build lifelong healthy oral habits. Through this program, classrooms receive all the necessary supplies, training, and oversight to ensure students are brushing their teeth daily in their classrooms. During a three-day launch at each site, students learn why daily toothbrushing is important and receive their own brushing supplies, along with individual support from the Healthy Smiles Academy Manager and Tooth Truck volunteers to establish a consistent classroom brushing routine and reinforce
these new skills.
A highlight of the program is the takehome bag each participant receives— carefully packed by the OTC dental students. Every bag includes a new toothbrush, toothpaste, floss, a twominute timer, a mirror cling with brushing pictures to follow, and an informational note for parents. These supplies help students carry the toothbrushing skills they practice daily at school into their homes, supporting the development of healthy routines for the whole family. We are incredibly grateful to the OTC dental students for taking time to learn about our meaningful programs and for their hard work in filling hundreds of takehome bags. Their dedication and service will have a lasting impact as new Healthy Smiles Academy toothbrushing sites launch and more children gain the tools they need for bright, healthy smiles.
The finished product: hundreds of assembled take-home bags ready to be given at Healthy Smiles Academy sites.
OTC dental students lend helping hands as they assemble take-home bags to support healthy smiles at home and in the classroom.
Clara, a Healthy Smiles Academy participant, proudly shows off her takehome bag filled with tools for healthy brushing at home.
Welcome, New Staff to the TT
(October 1st – December 31st)
The Tooth Truck is fortunate to have four assistants offering their skills to our program on an as-needed basis. Amanda Honor, Lindsey Nelson, Pasty Santiago, and Kassidy Tuttle offer their time and talents to ensure our patients receive all the attention and care needed to achieve healthy smiles. We are so grateful to work alongside each of you!
Welcome, New Volunteers to the TT
(October 1st – December 31st)
We are thrilled to continue growing our volunteer program with the addition of 11 new volunteers. They have already contributed numerous hours safely walking children to and from their dental appointments and finding special ways to connect with them. Their kindness and dedication will have a huge impact on our patients.
Jackson Carroll
Bianca Dunlap
Kenzie Denney
Kia Gould
Joslyn Magers
Sherri Murdraugh
Samara Sim
Aubrey Sparrow
Zina Umran
Sophia Webert
Ella Werner
Muñoz
Cimino
Womack
Dr. Aaron Dannegger
Dr. Caryl Earp
Dr. Emily Rockne
DENTAL ASSISTANTS
Amanda Honor
Lindsey Nelson
Rebekah Paredes
Megan Sanders
Pasty Santiago
Kassidy Tuttle
OFFICE COORDINATOR
Mellissa Glass
Heart Beats
949 E. Primrose Street
Springfield, Missouri 65807-5257
RETURN SERVICE REQUESTED
MISSION MOMENT
The Kaufman Family
Plans, as Emily and Jay Kaufman learned firsthand this year, can change in an instant. What began as a carefully planned pregnancy took a dramatic turn, leading to an emergency delivery and a 97-day fight for their daughter's life. Their journey, marked by medical emergencies and the unwavering support of Ronald McDonald House Charities of the Ozarks, is a testament to resilience and community.
At just 25 weeks gestation, the Kaufman’s daughter was diagnosed with Intrauterine Growth Restriction (IUGR), necessitating weekly ultrasounds. Over the next five weeks, Emily's blood pressure began a dangerous ascent, culminating in an urgent transfer to the hospital on August 11th. There, she was diagnosed with Severe Preeclampsia, quickly progressing to HELLP Syndrome – a critical condition where her liver was failing, blood platelets plummeting, and blood pressure reaching seizure-risk levels.
"We were not prepared physically, mentally, or emotionally for our girl to come this early," Emily shared. The only treatment option was an emergency c-section.
On August 13, 2025, at 30 weeks and 3 days gestation, Emma Rae Kaufman made her dramatic entrance into the world. Weighing a tiny 2 pounds, 13 ounces and measuring 15 inches long, their "feisty and dramatic little Emma" immediately faced the immense challenges of prematurity.
Emma's first 97 days were spent in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). For Emily and Jay, the struggle was compounded
by living 45 minutes from the hospital. Emily, committed to providing breast milk for Emma, needing to be close, and both parents wanted to be present for every step of their daughter's fight. This is where the Ronald McDonald House became their lifeline.
The Kaufmans were deeply impressed by the constant provision: daily family dinners, a perpetually clean and stocked kitchen overflowing with groceries, coffee, snacks, and even "fun foods." Beyond nourishment, having a place to sleep, shower, and do laundry was invaluable.
On November 17th, after 97 long days, Emma Rae finally came home, still requiring oxygen and food thickeners, but making steady progress. "Although we weren’t sent home cord-free, we are so thankful to have her home!" Emily beamed.
The Kaufmans, who had little prior knowledge of the Ronald McDonald House, now advocate passionately for its mission. "To have so many burdens lifted during a financially taxing season of life is a blessing we will never be able to repay," Jay concluded. Their experience underscores the profound impact these charities have, offering a sanctuary of support for families navigating the most challenging times of their lives.