Issuu

Spring/Summer 2021

HEARTBEAT

McDONALD’S RAISES OVER $1.1 MILLION

FOR RMHC THROUGH ROUND-UP IN 2020

WHAT’S INSIDE 2 Letter from the Board Chairperson 3-4 Resilience and Strength; Get Involved Today 5-6 Round-Up for RMHC at McDonald’s 7-8 2021 Special Events 9 Recycle for RMHC 10 Welcome to the Board; Outgoing Members 11 New Faces; 2020 Heart & Sole Award 12 Shoes News: Red Shoe Society Updates 13 Meet the Turner Family 14 Wexford Labs; Celebrate Your Birthday 15-18 2020 Cornerstone Society Members; Major In-Kind Donors 19-20 Memorials; In Loving Memory 21 Tributes 22 Share your Story for the 40th Anniversary 23 25 years at Park Avenue 24 Our Wish List; AmazonSmile 25-26 Heartbits

2021 BOARD OF DIRECTORS JEFF BARONE, CHAIRPERSON BRIDGET HOY, VICE CHAIRPERSON KAREN BAER, TREASURER BEVERLY GARNER, SECRETARY STEVE BESHORE DR. MARY MICHAELEEN CRADOCK GREG DIEKEMPER JOAN ELHOFFER CHRIS GIARLA MARK HEFFERNAN DAN HEGGER ANTHONY IRACE ALICIA JETT DR. JOSEPH KAHN SCOTT KARCHUNAS

RYAN KURYLA PETE LILLY STEVE MALTER MICHELE MUSCARELLA-HARMON JILL OLLER ELLYN ROSENBLUM NOLAN RUIZ KEITH SCHIELER DANNA STONE DAVE TORNETTO

RMHC ST. LOUIS STAFF

OUR MISSION: To provide a home-away-from-home for families of seriously ill children

DAN HARBAUGH, PRESIDENT CHERI WUERTZ, VICE PRESIDENT, FINANCE JASON HUFF, VICE PRESIDENT, DEVELOPMENT JUDY SCHULER, VICE PRESIDENT, OPERATIONS ALISON KASPAR, DIRECTOR, HUMAN RESOURCES PAT NEWBY, DIRECTOR, ADMINISTRATION RICH RODGERS, DIRECTOR, FACILITIES VERONICA BIVER, SENIOR MANAGER, FAMILY SERVICES MICHELLE BURMANN, SENIOR MANAGER, FINANCE KELSEY CRIPE, FAMILY SERVICES MANAGER, WEST PINE COURTNEY FISCHER, MANAGER, FAMILY ROOM PROGRAM ABBY MAUER, EVENT MANAGER JACOB MCGUIRE, FAMILY SERVICES MANAGER, WEST COUNTY LANISHA THOMAS, DATA MANAGER RENEISHA BROWN, ASSISTANT FAMILY SERVICES MANAGER CLARE BURKE, ASSISTANT FAMILY SERVICES MANAGER JORDAN ZACHOW, ASSISTANT FAMILY SERVICES MANAGER MAKAYLA JOHNSON, ASSISTANT FAMILY ROOM MANAGER COURTNEY BRADSHAW, FAMILY ROOM PROGRAM COORDINATOR MALLORI GREEN, COMMUNITY RELATIONS COORDINATOR BARB JARVIS, FINANCE COORDINATOR KATIE LAYMAN, COMMUNICATIONS COORDINATOR LARRY PRY, DATA COORDINATOR MCKENNA COOPER, VOLUNTEER COORDINATOR EMILY KOHLBERG, HUMAN RESOURCES ASSISTANT APRIL CUSAMANO, HOUSEKEEPER, WEST PINE JOY TATE, HOUSEKEEPEER, WEST COUNTY VICKI RUCKMAN, HOUSEKEEPER, WEST PINE

A Note from our BOARD CHAIRPERSON A Season of Growth

e have been experiencing a global pandemic for more than a year, which has disrupted our lives more than we could ever have imagined. I send out thoughts and prayers to everyone negatively affected, whether it was the loss of a loved one, the loss of a job, or the loss of resources/services. As I begin to serve as Chairman of Ronald McDonald House Charities of St. Louis, my heart aches for the families that we could not serve in our Houses and Family Rooms last year. But as I reflect on how the staff of the “House,” my peers on the board, and all our donors have reacted and worked together, I feel a real sense of joy and am more optimistic than I could ever have imagined. They say that challenges breed opportunities. Working with the staff and my fellow board members to respond to the challenges has been therapeutic and inspiring. The changes that have been implemented will have long-lasting benefits for the organization. Led by our McDonald’s franchisee board members Joan Elhoffer, Chris Giarla, and Nolan Ruiz, the Round-Up program has been a saving grace for the organization. This initiative to encourage McDonald’s patrons to “round up” their purchases drove more than $1 million in revenue to the “House” in 2020 and has even more potential for 2021 and beyond. In an incredible effort to support our Red Shoe young professionals, board member Keith Schieler organized a team of Red Shoe members, staff, and other board members to produce a virtual Professional Development Series. Thus far, there have been three events this year with an impressive lineup of speakers and panelists to provide networking, interview, and job advancement tips. This program has the potential to attract Red Shoe members for years to come. Without the ability to gather last year, the staff organized a virtual auction that raised almost $200,000. Now we understand how to leverage technology to reach a much wider audience and potentially add an additional revenue generator in some form or another for years to come. Planning is underway to create an annual virtual event beginning in 2022.

And I would be remiss if I did not mention how much I appreciate the staff. With limited facilities and families to serve much of last year, their hours were cut, and workweeks were reduced to four days. Their sacrifices, combined with our donors’ generosity who continued to exhibit tremendous financial support in the absence of our fund-raising events, contributed toward a record-breaking year for the House. We are truly blessed to have such a great staff and a robust donor base. And yes, I did just write “record-breaking,” which is incredible given the circumstances. As we look to 2021, exciting changes are underway. All our Family Rooms have reopened, and we are slowly ramping up capacity in our Houses. We are re-engaging with volunteers to carefully re-introduce them to the invaluable roles they play in serving our families. We have shuffled the dates and revised the format of our fund-raising events to gather safely. Planning is underway to completely renovate the Family Room at SSM Health Cardinal Glennon Children’s Hospital. And after pausing last year, we have re-started our capital campaign to raise funds for a new city House. Dan Harbaugh, our President, often states that he has the best job in the world. As I experience the care and compassion of all the staff, donors, volunteers, and board members each day, I feel the same as Dan. I am honored to serve such a great organization. With much appreciation and admiration,

Jeff Barone

The Mitchell Family at Jailee’s celebration in 2020

RESILIENCE AND STRENGTH The Mitchell Family stayed close at the West County Ronald McDonald House after Jailee’s terrifying accident

n October 17, 2019, fifteen-year-old Jailee Mitchell was rushed to the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) at Mercy Hospital Springfield in Missouri after an all-terrain vehicle accident. For the next three weeks, Jailee was treated for a traumatic brain injury caused by multiple fractures and hemorrhages, a hematoma on her spleen, and fractures on her ribs and ankle. Her medical team recommended she be

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transferred over 400 miles to Ranken Jordan Pediatric Bridge Hospital in Maryland Heights, Missouri, for specialized care. Jailee’s mother, Beverly, traveled four and a half hours with her from their home in Washburn, Missouri, to find hope and healing in St. Louis. Thankfully, the Ronald McDonald West County House offered the Mitchell family a home-awayfrom-home during Jailee’s recovery. “Without Ronald McDonald House, there’s no way my family and I could have afforded to be with my daughter during her stay in the hospital so far away from home,” says Beverly. “The hotels in the area were too expensive to be an option for our family.” Throughout the next four months, Jailee slowly gained strength from rounds of therapy and having her family close. Her mom also gained strength by making meaningful connections at the House after long days at the hospital. “There was a helpful volunteer by the name of Diane; she was such a comforting soul. She always listened, had encouraging words to say, and made

sure I had basic toiletry items and something to eat each evening because I was always the last one in for supper,” says Beverly. In April 2020, Jailee was healthy enough to head back home, and the Mitchell Family checked out of the Ronald McDonald House. In October of 2020, one year after the accident, the Mitchell family hosted a celebration, honoring Jailee’s journey after the accident and celebrating the challenges she has overcome. The family even got matching tattoos of a green awareness ribbon with the letters TBI (Traumatic Brain Injury) to support Jailee! Now, seventeen-year-old Jailee continues to attend therapy but is enjoying her life as a typical teenager. On a recent follow-up appointment in St. Louis, the Mitchell Family stopped by the West County Ronald McDonald House to visit the staff. Beverly summed up the experience at RMHC like this: “My family and I will forever be grateful for RMHC. It may not be home, but it’s the next best thing!” ■

GET INVOLVED TODAY! You can still make a difference in the lives of families with seriously ill children by donating your time and talents. In order to keep RMHC guest families in the healthiest environment possible, we have temporarily paused all on-site volunteer opportunities.

HERE ARE FIVE WAYS YOU CAN HELP RIGHT NOW! 1

Have a meal delivered to one of our three Ronald McDonald Houses

Round-Up for RMHC at McDonald's

Host a fundraiser

Donate Wish List items from our Amazon Wish list and have essential supplies delivered to the House

Join us for one of our socially-distant special events

For more information, please contact McKenna Cooper, Volunteer Coordinator, at mcooper@rmhcstl.com or visit www.rmhcstl.com/get-involved. Jailee and her younger cousin, December 2020

Jailee’s first day back to high school, March 2021

Special thanks to our friends Jason, Phyllis, Howard and Bob, who donated Wish List items to families at the West County Ronald McDonald House

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WOULD YOU LIKE TO ROUND-UP FOR RMHC FAMILIES? The McDonald’s Co-op of Metro St. Louis leads the nation in raising funds through the Round-Up program.

cross the St. Louis-region, McDonald’s customers are “rounding up” their orders to benefit our local Ronald McDonald Houses and Family Rooms. Launched in 2019, the Round-Up for RMHC program encourages McDonald’s customers to “round” their order total up to the next whole dollar. The money raised provides a “home-away-from-home” for families of seriously ill children receiving medical care at one of the children’s hospitals in the St. Louis region. When the COVID-19 pandemic closed dining rooms, local McDonald’s owner/operators and managers were tasked with making their drivethrus as efficient as possible. One concern they faced was the risk that asking customers to round up could slow down the order process. Never one to shy away from a challenge, owner/ operator (and RMHC St. Louis Board Member) Joan Elhoffer set out to find a solution for her seven stores. “We found out that we needed to reprogram

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the registers in a different fashion so that it would prompt for Round-Up in the drive-thru,” says Joan. “We were able to shave seven seconds off our drive-thru time. It became a win-win.” Other owner/operators saw the opportunity and jumped on board, including RMHC St. Louis board members Nolan Ruiz and Chris Giarla. “Round-Up has been a great way for our customers to support the local St. Louis chapter of RMHC during this challenging time. Our crew and managers have created a great connection with RMHC and the good work they do in the local community,” says Chris. The Round-Up program’s positive force grew exponentially in 2020 as McDonald’s crewmembers began asking customers to donate their ‘change’ to Round-Up for RMHC in the drive-thru. The customers responded in a big way! By July, the co-op publically announced its 2020 goal to raise $1 million for RMHC St. Louis. The region’s leading store was in Troy, Missouri, owned by Joan and managed by Kendra Fraatz.

“The crew members compete with how many Round-Ups they can get during their shift,” says Kendra. “Everyone loves it.” The high-performing Troy store continued to raise over $8,000 each month, totaling $90,000 alone throughout last year. Customers enjoy watching the new total tick upward with the sizeable electronic sign out front. The grand total for all stores in the St.Louis co-op in 2020 surpassed all expectations, raising more than $1.1 million in support for RMHC families! What’s the “secret” ingredient? Passion. “This is the best thing I have ever done in my career. I wake up in the morning, go right to the Round-Up numbers, and see what we have done. And it warms my heart that we have done something positive in a bigger way,” says Joan. Joan began working at McDonald’s in Hazelwood and, by the age of 31, opened her first store as the youngest owner/operator in St. Louis at the time. She met her husband on the line at McDonald’s and is still friends with many of her coworkers from when she first started. Now, she and her team share best practices and results on how they are taking Round-Up to the next level

with other owner/operators across the country. She focuses on highlighting the fun side of the program for crewmembers, like giving them RMHC t-shirts and pins as incentives, posting a family story wall in the restaurant’s lobby and placing a bell on the counter to ring every time someone rounds up their order. McDonald’s is a founding partner of the Ronald McDonald House and continues to support The House that Love Built in a variety of ways. Each year, the McDonald’s Co-Op of Metro St. Louis sponsors the Annual Scramble for Golf Tournament. Crewmembers and customers also give back through the canister program and during the holiday season with special projects, like the “Angel Tree” at the Troy Store to collect wish list items for RMHC families. “Since the efforts began over 42 years ago to start and then open a Ronald McDonald House in STL, the McDonald’s community has been an unbelievable partner,” says Dan Harbaugh. “The efforts for Round-Up only serve as another reinforcement of this incredible partnership, we are so grateful for their longtime friendship and support.” ■

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2021 SPECIAL EVENTS Mark your calendar and join us for one of our annual fundraising events!

17TH ANNUAL TAB TOP PANDEMONIUM SATURDAY, MAY 1

Drop off the aluminum tab tops, keys and electronics you have been collecting for RMHC St. Louis all year! Weigh stations for tabs will be available courtesy of Didion Orf Recycling for you to see how your collection stacks up against the competition. Before you leave, be sure to grab a snack and check out the RMHC merchandise for sale! Visit www.rmhcstl.com/recycle for more information or to register (advance registration not required).

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28TH ANNUAL SCRAMBLE FOR CHARITY GOLF TOURNAMENT MONDAY, JUNE 7

LOCATION: The Country Club at The Legends Sponsored by McDonald’s, this event is perfect for anyone looking for a fun, affordable tournament supporting a great cause! Foursomes will compete for prizes in morning or afternoon rounds and test their luck at several par-3 games along the course. Each player will also receive a gift bag, lunch and refreshments on the course. For more information, visit www.rmhcstl.com/scramble.

Each year, proceeds from special events contribute more than $1 million toward the mission of Ronald McDonald House Charities of St. Louis. For more information about our fun-filled fundraisers, or to see how you can get involved, please visit us online at www.rmhcstl.com/events.

21ST ANNUAL KIDS & CLAYS TOURNAMENT AUGUST 19 & 20

LOCATION: NILO Farms Grab your team and enjoy an 84-target sporting clays tournament on either Thursday or Friday at NILO Farms in Illinois! The tournament, presented by ARCO Construction, will include breakfast, lunch, and beverages throughout the day, a gift for each participant, additional clays side games and an awards ceremony at the end of the event. For more information, visit www.rmhcstl.com/kidsandclays.

36TH ANNUAL RMH GOLF TOURNAMENT & DINNER AUCTION ■ SEPTEMBER 26 & 27 LOCATION: Meadowbrook Country Club The annual Ronald McDonald House Golf Tournament is one of the premier golf events in St. Louis. This two-day affair begins on Sunday with a sit-down dinner accompanied by a silent and live auction. On Monday, the links become the place to be when threesomes vie for the firstplace prize while enjoying food, beverages, and a gift for each golfer. For more information, please visit www.rmhcstl.com/golf.

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Help keep families with sick children close while doing your part to sustain our environment by recycling for RMHC! The aluminum tab tops on beverage cans, old keys or small electronics you collect will be recycled and turned into a monetary donation for RMHC St. Louis thanks to our friends at Didion Orf Recycling. While it may seem like a small gesture, your recycling efforts have a big impact on families staying at one of our three Ronald McDonald Houses and those using our four Ronald McDonald Family Rooms.

TAB TOP PROGRAM The Tab Top Program invites people of all ages to collect aluminum tab tops from beverage cans to support The House that Love Built.

KEYS TO THE HEART PROGRAM Collect and donate your unused keys to RMHC St. Louis through our Keys to the Heart Program. When you donate the keys you no longer need, you open doors for families with seriously ill children.

ELECTRONIC RECYCLING PROGRAM Your old or broken electronics don’t need to sit around gathering dust. Instead, many types of electronics, including holiday lights, can be recycled and turned into a monetary donation!

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Accepted electronics include: old cell phones, laptops, AC adapters, holiday lights, home and office phones, extension cords, network gear, satellite receivers and PC towers. *Currently, these are the only items we accept for the Electronic Recycling Program*

HOW YOU CAN GET INVOLVED 1. Find a Container. You can collect tabs, keys and electronics in anything! Visit us online at rmhcstl.com/recycle for printable wraps and signs to place on your collection bin, or get creative and make your own! 2. Start Collecting. Ask family, friends, schools, community groups or local businesses for help. 3. Turn In Your Collection. Tabs and keys can be dropped off at any Ronald McDonald House during regular hours, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. (Mon-Fri), or directly to Didion Orf Recycling. All electronics must be dropped off at Didion Orf Recycling. Be sure to tell them that you want your donation to go to RMHC St. Louis! *Tabs, keys and electronics must be separated when turned in*

Questions? Visit rmhcstl.com/recycle.

WELCOME TO THE BOARD RMHC St. Louis welcomes the following individuals to the 2021 Board of Directors: DAN HEGGER is Vice President, Compensation at Centene Corporation.

This managed care organization provides access to high-quality healthcare, innovative programs, and a wide range of health solutions that help families get well and stay well. Dan has been part of Centene for the last four years, and before his current role, he led the HR Business Partner team for IT and Shared Services. He earned his undergraduate degree from Webster University. Dan has been working in the HR practice for the last 14 years and has worked on behalf of Ronald McDonald House Charities as a member of the HR Committee since 2015. Dan and his wife, Jessica, have three daughters, Emma, Abby, and Izzi.

PETE LILLY is the Director, Investor Relations at Emerson Electric. Pete

earned a bachelor’s degree in economics from Dartmouth College, where he also lettered in and captained the men’s varsity lacrosse team. After college, Pete served in the US Marines for nearly nine years with multiple deployments overseas. His Marines roles included UH-1 “Huey” helicopter pilot, instructor, helicopter maintenance division manager, and aviation simulator design and procurement officer. Pete transitioned from the military via graduate school, earning an MBA from Harvard University in 2015. Pete has been married for 14 years to his wife Julia. They have three children, Byron, Ella, and Jackie.

DANNA STONE is the District Vice President, St. Louis District for Graybar,

a leading distributor of electrical and communications products and related supply chain management and logistics services. Stone is a native of Champaign, Illinois, and holds a Bachelor’s degree in Industrial Distribution Management from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. She has completed executive leadership programs at the International Institute of Management Development (IMD) in Lausanne, Switzerland, as well as the Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University. She lives in St. Louis with her husband, Steve, and their children, Devan and Dade.

THANK YOU! We would like to thank our 2021 outgoing Board Members Jim Mosby, Deb Vogt and Dave Brandt for their outstanding dedication and service to the RMHC mission. Jim Mosby

Deb Vogt

Dave Brandt

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NEW FACES Meet the newest staff members of RMHC St. Louis! RENEISHA BROWN

is extremely excited to have joined the RMHC St. Louis family. She transitioned from a 6-year career as a St. Louis County Intake Training/Crisis Intervention Corrections Officer in hopes of pursuing her passion in a more personable and positive environment. She enjoys Christian Ministry in her spare time and hanging out with her daughter and feisty pup, Charlie.

JORDAN ZACHOW

is thrilled to join the RMHC family as an Assistant Family Services Manager. Jordan has recently moved back to St. Louis after getting her Bachelor’s Degree in Family Sciences at Central Michigan University. Jordan is eager to work with the organization and to make positive impacts on families. Jordan loves the outdoors, her two cats and quality time with friends and family.

2020 HEART & SOLE AWARD

n December 2020, Dan Harbaugh and Deb Vogt presented the members of the McDonald’s Co-Op of Metro St. Louis with the Heart and Sole Award on behalf of Ronald McDonald House Charities of St. Louis during a socially-distant reception. “We are honored to present the Heart & Sole award to McDonald’s,” says Dan. “The ripple impact of

RMHC St. Louis President Dan Harbaugh and Chairperson Deb Vogt present the Heart & Sole Award to Owner/Operators & Board Members Nolan Ruiz, Chris Giarla and Joan Elhoffer at the McDonald’s reception in December.

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McDonald’s to our organization through the years can never be quantified.” McDonald’s is a founding partner of Ronald McDonald House Charities nationally and here in St. Louis. Thanks to local Owner/Operators’ support in the 1980s, the first Ronald McDonald House on West Pine Boulevard opened. Now, 40 years later, their giving legacy lives on through the McDonald’s Co-Op. Crewmembers from across the region support The House that Love Built through the Round-Up program and the Scramble for Charity Golf Tournament, sponsored by McDonald’s. Many Owner/Operators have served on the Board of Directors and a variety of committees. The Heart & Sole Award was created in 2005 to honor Coldwell Banker Realty - Gundaker for its more than 20-year commitment to our organization. Each year, RMHC St. Louis celebrates a new supporter or group of supporters who emulate Coldwell Banker Realty - Gundaker’s commitment and generosity. “We couldn’t be prouder to have their name on our front door,” says Dan.

SHOES NEWS ST. LOUIS

Get to know the Red Shoe Society St. Louis - Ronald McDonald House Charities of St. Louis’ young professionals group!

he Red Shoe Society seeks to engage, empower and inspire young professionals to participate in philanthropic and leadership endeavors while building awareness of our organization, which supports Ronald McDonald House Charities of St. Louis. Members will enjoy an array of social activities, fundraising events, professional development opportunities and more! For more information about the Red Shoe Society, visit www.rmhcstl.com/ redshoesociety or reach out to RSS President, Phil Saettele at psaettele@gmail.com.

Meet the Red Shoe Society’s

2021 LEADERSHIP COUNCIL Phil Saettele PRESIDENT Kristie Ream TREASURER Joe Nonnenkamp SECRETARY Kayla Drury SERVICE CHAIR Emily Westerholt PR/MARKETING CHAIR Lauren Hieger DEVELOPMENT CHAIR

Stay up-to-date with the Red Shoe Society on social media! @redshoestl

Jennifer Jines SOCIAL & MEMBERSHIP CHAIR Heartbeat Heartbeat •• Spring/Summer Spring/Summer 2018 2021

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MEET THE TURNER FAMILY The Turner Family, 2020

Rowan, 2011

Rowan’s family used the Ronald McDonald Family Room during his open-heart surgery 10 years ago.

my and Tim Turner’s youngest son, Rowan, was born on September 7, 2010. During the one-month wellness checkup, his pediatrician discovered an irregularity in his little heart and sent the Turner family to St. Louis Children’s Hospital for further testing. By October, Rowan was diagnosed with an Atrial Septal Defect (ASD), a congenital disability that causes a hole in the wall between the heart’s upper chambers. His family would have to wait until Rowan was strong enough to undergo open-heart surgery. On June 27, 2011, nine-month-old Rowan underwent his first surgery at St. Louis Children’s Hospital to place his first pacemaker. Thirty minutes away from their home in Swansea, Illinois, the Turner family found the Ronald McDonald Family Room was just steps away from their son’s room during these difficult times. “It’s a very comforting place when you need somewhere to go that feels a little like home. Being able to come and take a quick shower was a lifesaver,” says Amy. “The people that volunteer there always took the time to ask us how we 13

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were doing and to make sure we had everything we needed.” Amy and Tim would take turns catching a small break from the stress in Rowan’s semiprivate room. “You take the little things for granted. I believe we took advantage of the Family Room every day,” says Amy. Now Rowan is a creative 10-year-old who enjoys expressing himself through art and construction. He loves the Green Bay Packers, swimming, and playing video games. Rowan’s medical team plans to replace his pacemaker in the next five to seven years. As the Turner Family anticipates his subsequent surgery, they know that a team member will be waiting in the Ronald McDonald Family Room, ready with hot coffee and clean towels upon their return. Each year, Amy and Tim support the Ronald McDonald Family Room program to honor their son’s journey to help other families when they need it most. “Ronald McDonald House Charities will always hold a special place in our hearts,” says Amy. ■

The Wexford Labs team dropping off cleaning supplies at the West County House

WEXFORD LABS Giving peace of mind to families when they need it most.

n January, Wexford Labs, a St. Louis based EPA-registered disinfectant manufacturer and distributor, delivered a six-month supply of cleaning products to the West County Ronald McDonald House as part of an international effort. “With the demand for disinfecting products being so high, we wanted to give back to the community,” says Jeff Singer, CEO of Wexford Labs. “So we decided to sponsor every Ronald McDonald location across the country and Canada. Our team is excited to visit the St. Louis chapter in person.” Over the past year, our Family Services Team in St. Louis has changed cleaning protocols, leaving the need for essential cleaning supplies at an all-time high. Our team is so grateful for this generous donation to keep our three St. Louisarea Ronald McDonald Houses and four Ronald McDonald Family Rooms safe for all families – even those with immune-compromised children.

“Wexford Labs’ donations provide families with peace of mind while staying in their ‘home away from home’ during a challenging time,” says Jeff. “Disinfecting wipes and solutions have been in high demand over the past nine months, and with this donation, we can help ensure that RMHC Chapters have access to critical cleaning and disinfectant supplies, allowing them to focus on caring for families with ill or injured children.” Wexford Labs’ approach to disinfectants emphasizes safety, quality, and biodegradable ingredients over harsh chemicals. Over two million ready-to-use CleanCide disinfecting wipes and over 600 gallons of ready-to-use spray have been distributed to RMHC Chapters to help provide a level of confidence and comfort to families during their stay. Thank you, Wexford Labs, for making guest families’ health and safety a priority at RMHC. ■

CELEBRATE YOUR BIRTHDAY WITH RMHC ON FACEBOOK!

T’varis celebrating his ninth birthday at the Ronald McDonald House

We’ve seen people using Facebook to dedicate their birthday and raise money for Ronald McDonald House Charities of St. Louis. Last year, more than $20,000 was raised for families of seriously ill children through Facebook. Birthdays have always been a special occasion at RMHC, and we hope to continue celebrating with you! You can dedicate your birthday to Ronald McDonald House Charities of St. Louis by creating a fundraiser at www.facebook.com/fundraisers. Heartbeat • Spring/Summer 2019

OUR FRIENDS. OUR PARTNERS. OUR FOUNDATION.

e would like to thank our 2020 Cornerstone Society members for their generosity! The Cornerstone Society was established in 2012 to recognize the individuals, organizations and corporations that give an unrestricted donation of $1,000 or more to RMHC St. Louis. In 2020, Cornerstone Society members’ donations totaled more than $2 million, accounting for nearly half of our operating budget. For more information about the Cornerstone Society, please call Jason Huff, Vice President of Development, at 314932-4145. To honor these generous community members, Ronald McDonald House Charities of St. Louis has historically hosted an appreciation event in February. The 2021 appreciation celebration has been postponed until later this year for safety and well-being of our friends and neighbors. Cornerstone member will receive an invitation in the coming weeks.

HEART OF LOVE $25,000+ Bayer Donald H. and Mary Jane Buchanan Foundation Terri and Jerry Flagg Friends of RMHC (4) Anthony W. Irace ♥ Ronald McDonald House Charities (Global) SKC Enterprises, Inc. Ashley and James Souers St. Louis Children’s Hospital

HEART OF COURAGE $20,000-$24,999 American Direct Marketing Resources, LLC The Butler Family Foundation Emerson ♥ Friend of RMHC Harlene and Marvin Wool Foundation Mary and Mark Kohlberg ♥ Mercy Kids ♥ Paul Simon Jr. Impact Foundation Ronald McDonald House Charities of Tri-State Co-op Linda and James Sramek ♥ Laurie and Raymond Van De Riet ♥

HEART OF HEALING $15,000-$19,999

BECAUSE OF YOU No one has to fight alone 15

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Ameren Corporation Charitable Trust ♥ Mr. Demetrick M. Coleman ♥ Rita and Greg Diekemper ♥ Edward Jones Enterprise Holdings Foundation ♥ Invest In Others Charitable Foundation Jefferson Foundation Billie and David May Midwest Elevator Company, Inc. Cynthia and Edward Potter Roman Catholic Foundation of Eastern Missouri Tracy Family Foundation WSDC Foundation

HEART OF COMPASSION ■ $10,000-$14,999 Advisors Capital Management Tracy and Scott Bazoian ♥ Brinkmann Constructors Sharon and Larry Carrico ♥ Lee and Mike DeCola ♥ Gloria and Gary Deeken ♥ Emerson Hermetic Motor Friend of RMHC

Haberberger Mechanical Contractors ♥ Kelly and Dan Harbaugh ♥ Suzie and Gary Hartwig ♥ Kathy and Steve Hays ♥ Amy and Eric Holland Diane and Stephen Holste ♥ Marlyn K. Micheletto

Mary and James Mosby Catherine and Thomas Rea Mary and Zsolt Rumy Louis A. Russo ♥ Skarie Charitable Fund St. Louis Lodge No. 5 IOOF ♥ Denise Wool

HEART OF HOPE ■ $5,000-$9,999 Karen and Chris Baer Diane and Jeff Barone ♥ Carrie and David Beckel Nora and Brian Black Marie and Stuart Block ♥ Blues for Kids Foundation Mary and Christopher Burnes ♥ SSM Health Cardinal Glennon Children’s Hospital Connor’s Cause Barbara and William Dowling ♥ Employees Community Fund of The Boeing Company ESCO Technologies, Inc. ♥ Equitable Foundation Fund Linda and Steve Fahrig ♥

Barbara Farrel ♥ Friend of RMHC Graybar Foundation Cindy and Mark Heffernan Bridget Hoy and Iain Beardsley Sandra and John Irace ♥ Mary and John Kennedy Ana and Matthew Kent Marie and Donald Kukla ♥ Mariann and Bernard Lears ♥ Dorothy and Melvyn Lefkowitz ♥ Nancy Loftus Martin Brower St. Louis Diana and Dan McCoy ♥ Paula and Harold Miles MKL Foundation, Inc. Kathryn B. Mleczko

Leslie and Timothy Myers ♥ Opus Foundation Beth and Steve Pelch ♥ Herman T. & Phenie R. Pott Foundation Mimi Ravarino Toni and Nolan Ruiz Christine and David Sadler ♥ Gaye and Ken Schrautemeier Schroeder & Tremayne, Inc. Judith and Lee Schuler ♥ Jeanne and Edward Shay Simons and Cordes at UBS Financial Services, Inc. St. Louis Men’s Group Against Cancer Dr. Tracey and Brent Stevens Joe A. Strickert

Paul and Patricia Taylor Family Foundation Tegeler Foundation Triad Bank Vi-Jon Laboratories, Inc. Mary Ann and John Virant Von Gontard Family Foundation Heather and Andrew Wegman ♥ World Pediatric Project

HEART OF COMFORT ■ $2,500-$4,999 Frank Adam Foundation Aero Charter, Inc. Alan Green 4-Chesed Fund Susan and Stephen Altmann ♥ Argent Capital Management, LLC Bank of America Charitable Gift Fund Robbie and Theodore Beaty ♥ Blaylock Family Foundation ♥ Carmen and Marty Blaylock Lynn and David Brandt John A. Brennan Coca-Cola USA Concord Village Lions Community Services Foundation, Inc. D&L Painting and Drywall, LLC Lynn Ann and Arthur DeGuire ♥ Joan and David Elhoffer ♥ Franklin Family Foundation Friend of RMHC

Barbara and Kenneth Fritz ♥ Sean T. Geoghegan ♥ Wendy and Daniel Geraty Dawn and Chris Giarla Andrea and David Giarla ♥ Lisa and James Hannon Vickie and Tom Heeger ♥ Wanetta Henry Michel and Tom Heutel John Hewitt Charlotte and Thomas Hillmeyer ♥ Illinois Tool Works Foundation Quimby and David Ingram JM Family Enterprises ♥ John Bender, Inc. Barbara and Alan Kahn Karen and Dr. Joseph Kahn ♥ Lisa and Scott Karchunas Margery and Timothy Kohl ♥ Cheryl and Rich Kopp Holly and Randy Krohn

Robert J. Lieber ♥ Felicia M. Malter, CPA♥ Cheryl and Jim Mather ♥ Sandi and Richard Mauger ♥ Jane and James Moore ♥ Margie and William Moskoff ♥ Michele Muscarella-Harmon and Arthur Harmon P & A Drywall Richard Palank Warren Patton Jacque Phillips, RN, BSN Piasa Charitable Foundation Protective Life Corporation John and Dr. Maureen Riffle ♥ Paula and Rodger Riney Debbie and Timothy Rohlman ♥ Barbara and Brian Satterthwaite Joan and Mark Schlichter ♥ Laurie and Mark Sifrig ♥ Spectra Painting, Inc.

Sprowls Family Charitable Foundation SSE, Inc. St. Louis Community Foundation Sarah and Jerald Stempel Joan and Ralph Stevens Anne Stewart Angela and Tom Strunk Robert Tanenbaum The Patricia A. Healey Fund of InFaith Community Foundation ♥ Teri and Richard Thornberry David Tornetto ♥ Carla J. Valenti ♥ Deb M. Vogt ♥ Webster-Maclean Foundation Barbara Whitehead and James Spence ♥ Marjorie Zechmeister

Bold - Cornerstone Society Founding Member ♥ - Eight-Year Consecutive Donor

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HEART OF THE HOME ■ $1,000 - $2,499 Acropolis Investment Management, LLC Serena Adams Luz and Dr. Jorge Alegre Shari Altheimer AmazonSmile Foundation Carla Amschler Jodi Apter Dennis Araujo Carrie and Michael Backers Robert and Jo Baer Rodney T. Bahr Kevin Bailey Dolores Baird Brant Balbanza Bank of America Karen and Dan Bantle Ilana Barasch Lynn and Gerald Barnes Debbie and William Barta Edward Bartell Ayn Bartok Ryan Batchelor Dan Beaman Dawn and Joseph Becher Lauren and Brad Beigle Ellen and Steven Beshore Dennis Beutler Jaime Bierk and Jamie Marr Mary Jo and Robert Blankemeyer Ruth and Les Block Wayne R. Brinkman Stephen Broun Cathy Brown Sandy and Phillip Brown Ian Broz Ann and Fred Bueler ♥ Sharon and Ronald Burkhardt ♥ Kathryn and Chris Busch C.L. Rocks Corporation Stacey and Mark Caplinger Joan and Gregory Carlson Tracey A. Cavato Chod Family Foundation Dawn Christoffersen and Jared Minkoff Kim and Craig Clynes Community Health Charities of Kansas & Missouri Community Tire Retreading Continental Casualty Company Linda and Marty Coyne Craig HomeCare Christine A. Crain CRB USA Debbie Crittenden CSI Leasing Dr. Angela and Matthew Culler Laura and Adrian De Yong Mozell Deloch Jerrod Deneke Virginia and T. Randle Dennison Dr. Paul Deutsch Justin Dibson Christine and James Dohr Genevieve and Robert Donohue

Natalie and Thomas Douglass Dr. Pepper Snapple Group KS Anne and Karl Dunajcik Kathleen and Dr. Justin Durel Christine and Greg Eilerman Carol Elmendorf Enterprise Bank & Trust Enterprise Fleet Management Phyllis and John Evans Lloyd Evitts Jammie and Doug Fabick Connie and James Finger ♥ First Lutheran Church Rita G. Fitzgibbons Dianna and Micheal Foste ♥ Dana and Kevin Francis Sandy and Randy Franklin Judith and George Franz Friends of RMHC (7) Fru-Con Foundation G. S. & S. General Contractors Ganske Sales and Consulting LLC Mary and Steve Garavaglia Beverly and Mark Garner Michael Garner Kelly and Gus Gast ♥ Jenny and Michael Gebhart Girdner Contracting Helaine and Milton Goldenberg Pamela T. Gomes Dr. Elizabeth A. Goodman Elizabeth and Stephen Goold Travis Graham-Wright Bradley Green Mark Grieman Heather and Lee Grochowski Bethe and Gary Growe Loretta Muretich Maria and Joseph Guffey ♥ Mary and John Gunther Norma Jean and Ralph Haag Brenda S. Haalboom ♥ Laura and Mark Haberberger Lynda and Steve Haberberger Debbie and Richard Hanak Craig A. Haney Amy and Ken Hannah Greg Hantak Jennifer and Matt Harbaugh Janet Haselhorst Hautly Cheese Co. Kathy and David Hawkins Doris A. Hawkins Timothy Hayes Jessica and Dan Hegger Amanda and Robert Hehmeyer ♥ Kimberly and Robert Herdler Craig Hergenroether Doris Hermsmeyer Georgey and Craig Herron John Herschberger Hoffmann Family Fund Kathleen and Dr. Michael Hoffmann Mary and John Hofman Laura and Jason Hogan

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Martha and Michael Hogan Diana K. Holway Randy Horrell Sandra and Keith Hosto ♥ Lisa and Rob Howe Jason A. Huff Natosha and Matthew Hunter Icon Mechanical Integrated Project Management Company, Inc. Sue and Matt Iovaldi Carol Ann and Russell Isaak Jonathan Jansky JC Breault Memorial Committee Jerry Kelly Heating and Air Conditioning Alicia and Brian Jett Michael T. Jett John & Bernadine Foster Foundation Cheryl Jones Martha and Bruce Karsh Teresa and Shawn Kelly ♥ Kemlage Family Dentistry Arthur F. Kerckhoff III Mary and Larry Kettenbach Kiwanis Club of Hampton Midtown ♥ Gladys and John Klipp Tina and James Klocke Kathy and Lester Knopp Kimberly and Joseph Koenig Kohl’s Department Store Crestwood Karl Kottemann Debra and Jesse Kramper Carl Krause Catherine Krucylak Tim Krueger Christina and Phillip Kumnick Emily and Ryan Kuryla Kimberly M. Kutis Donna Moog and Leonard M. Landsbaum Deborah and Paul Lane Mel and Jeff Lapidus Lauren and Colin Lauer Brad Lavallee and Arlene Howe Jack Lay Frances and Gary Lazaroff Marcia and Bob Leonard Simon Lepich Amy and Erik Lescher ♥ Ron Lewandowski Margaret O. Lockhart Felice and Ralph Lowenbaum Nancy and Brock M. Lutz Gari and Stephen Lux ♥ Deanna and David Macke Dr. Steve J. Malter ♥ Dr. Jorge Marcial and Dr. Katie Herzog Marc’s Flooring Service June and Joseph Marlo Anita and Daniel Marquitz Paul Marshall

Rita and Ralph Mathews ♥ Judy A. Maurer McAllister Family Foundation Martha and Max McCombs Clara McLeod Gregrey McMaster Joy McMillen Margie and Charlie Medelberg Tammie and Alan Meyer ♥ Microsoft Giving Campaign Midland Optical Keiko and George Miller Missouri Employers Mutual Lynnette and John Modder Cheryl Moellenhoff Pamela and William Moench ♥ Karen and John Mountain ♥ Janet and Dean Mueller Genie and Harry Mueller Linda and Gary Muenster Kathleen and David Naumann Katie and Dr. Jordan Nepute Patricia A. Newby NorthPoint Development Lynne and Robert O’Connell Linda and John O’Hara Jill and Dave Oller Sharon and Robert Olwig John O’Neal Brendan Orf Chris and Deborah Ott Tammy Owens Dr. Jacqueline and Dr. George Paletta Parkside Financial Bank & Trust Tina and James Piepenbrok Poger Family Fund Sanford J. Poger Jamie Puckett Radian Guaranty Inc Megan and Rich Rafuse ♥ Janet and Jeff Rainford Christine and Matthew Rands Carolyn Reese Cathy and Timothy Reeves Barbara C. Regnell Clare and Lee Renz ♥ Tracey L. Reynolds and Timothy M. Reich Kathy and David Rhodes Debra and John Ribando Christa and Kent Richardson Paula Richter ♥ Roger Ringering Lauren and Donald Roberts Marlene and Dr. Lawrence Rocks Suzanne and Richard Rodgers Peter Rogers Matthew Rose Ellyn Rosenblum and Thomas Self Claire and Shawn Rowan Michelle and Peter Roy Larry Runner Janice and Steve Runyon

S. M. Wilson General Contractors/Construction Managers Philip Saettele Safety National Casualty Corporation Tom W. Santel Sanvi Charitable Foundation Inc. Stacy and John Schicker Barbara A. Schieler Lori and Keith Schieler ♥ Cheryl and Michael Schmid ♥ Karl Schmidt Colleen Schoendienst ♥ Ann and John Schultz Beth and Patrick Schumann Jill and Roger Schurig ♥ Stephanie and Andrew Sciaroni

Kim and Brad Seabaugh ♥ Tim Seymour Katherine and James Shaughnessy Sidener Foundation Susan and David Simons Nancy Slater Matthew Smith ♥ Dalia and Ehab Soliman Alicea Starr Marilyn and Kenneth Steinback Brian Steiner Sarah E. Stephenson Lisa A. Stevens The Stonebright Foundation Stratum Structural Systems Ruth and Francis Stroble Deborah and Thomas Suter Swanson Masonry

Carol and Christopher Swiecicki Lisa and Kirk Syberg ♥ Shirat and Thanom Temiyasathit Nancy M. Thomas Katie and John Thorman ♥ Thrivent Financial Richard Trebelhorn Becky and Brian Ungles United Healthcare Services, Inc US Bancorp Foundation Employee Matching Gift Program Kellie Vahey Shirley Vanhorenbeeck Becky and Michael Vasta Patricia Voigt Patricia Wade Lesley and Matthew Wagner Vera and Harold Walker

Ryan Walker Lisa and Mike Walsh Amy and Jeffrey Ward Ruth Ann and Breck Washam Lucinda and Mark Weaver ♥ Eileen and Harry Weber Beth and Dr. Glen Weeks ♥ Linda and Dennis Whelan Marguerite and Hans Wiemann Janet and Ronald Wiese Shannon and William Willhite Erin and Jeffrey Wist Susan and Nelson Wolff Joyce and Charles Woodard Cheri and Brian Wuertz ♥ Therese and Neal Wunderlich

THANK YOU! We are extremely grateful for all of our generous supporters. To see a list of all our 2020 Annual Giving donors, please visit us online at www.rmhcstl.com/donors.

MAJOR IN-KIND DONORS The following organizations and corporations made gifts in-kind valued at $1,000 or more to Ronald McDonald House Charities of St. Louis between January 1 and December 31, 2020. Home2 Suites Alisa Joyner Amelia and Brittany DeLuna Anthony W. Irace Anytime Fitness Cheryl Holloway Corbin Gegg David C. Sadler Denise Nanney Dianne Brandt Dynamic Vending, Inc. Emerson Everstream Focal Pointe Outdoor Solutions, Inc.

Girl Scout Troop 1913 Growin Green Inc. Hannah Dunn Heather Sewell Howard P. Loiterstein Jacque Phillips The Elmendorf Family John Favazza Julie Welin Ken Berresheim Kim Masterson Laura Guelker La-Z-Boy, Michigan Lodging Hospitality Management

Lori Gardner Lynsey Tripp Macy’s Department Store Galleria Maverick Softwash McDonald’s Co-op of Metro St. Louis, Inc. Midwest Drain Equipment Mondelez International Foundation Optimist Club of Washington Papa John’s Project Linus Protective Asset Protection

Renee Johnson’s Dance Competition Pearl Line Ronald A. Becker Sachs Electric Sinclair & Rush, Inc. Southwest Airlines SSE, Inc. St. Simon School The Giving Doll Thirty-One Gifts Timothy M. Rohlman Vito’s in the Valley Woodard Cleaning & Restoration

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MEMORIALS The following gifts were made in memory of someone special from August 1 - December 31, 2020. Jim Aiken Mr. and Mrs. David Silverman Anonymous Ms. Melissa Willock Your Brother Mr. and Mrs. Henry Diamant Gene Armstrong Mr. and Mrs. Thomas F. Armstrong Kyla Arnold Mrs. Lana R. Kruse Don Barton Ms. Kathy Bates Brendan Bax Ms. Michele Dalpini Matt Bazoian Mr. and Mrs. Gary E. Muenster Olivia Billings Mr. and Mrs. Brad Hendrich Ms. Caroline Mahfood Eden Bisker Boone Creek Baptist Church Ms. Freda Grover Patricia Blankenship Ms. Diane Busch Mr. Michael O’Brien Clare Blase Mr. John Blase Cathy Block Mr. and Mrs. Harold F. Walker Barrett Bone Ms. Karla Berra Barrett Bruce Bossi Mrs. Kelly Bossi Marie Brambilla Mr. and Ms. Guy E. Middleton JC Breault JC Breault Memorial Committee Brenda Brewer Mr. and Mrs. Cory Heiman Mike Bridges Ms. Kathleen Perks Kaden Briones Ms. Kimberly Brown Mary Ruth Brooks Mr. and Mrs. Gary R. Hartwig Michael Brothers Mrs. Amy Turner Edith Brown Mr. Harvey Brown Edna Rose Brown Mr. and Mrs. Gary R. Hartwig

Chuck Bryant’s Mother Mr. and Mrs. Henry Diamant Neva Bryant Mr. Kenneth Bryant Mackenzie Casella Ms. Rebecca Manuel John Michael Cimera Ms. Betty F. Klein Joy Cole Mrs. Kim E. Bertram and Mr. Dale A. Bertram Rick Coleman Ms. Barbara Hutchison Robert Martin Cradock Kelly and Dan Harbaugh Mr. and Mrs. Lee J. Schuler Lester P. Crawford Mrs. Kathy Major Mrs. Gertrude Placke Christopher Davis Ms. Patricia Burton Jeannie Davis Ms. Sheila Emerick Even deMello Ms. Heather Dempsey David Dierberg Mrs. and Mr. Judith L. Dierberg Ray Dierkes Kelly and Dan Harbaugh Mrs. Barbara Thomas Virginia DiRaimondo Mr. David L. Tornetto William Doorack Mrs. Mary E. Pixley Joseph Durkin Mr. and Mrs. Andy Pullen Viktor Ebers Mr. Bruce Ebers Chase Elmendorf Mrs. Ellen Broadway Mrs. Carol Elmendorf Heaven Sent of the Ayco Charitable Foundation Mr. and Mrs. Daniel A. Plackemeier Ms. Grace Randazzo Mrs. Patricia Wood Severian “Sib” Elsenraat Mr. and Mrs. John E. Buckner, Jr. Breanne and Levina Erwin Ms. Debra K. Erwin Steve Exler Ms. Shirley M. Good Earleen Fitzgerral Ms. Richie R. Strohl Rylan Foster Mrs. Donna Deschepper

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Michael D Frede Mr. and Mrs. Lee Elliott Mrs. Bonnie Keefe Mr. Ronald Lang Mr. Thomas McMunn Norman Friedmeyer, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Dougherty Jason Frye Ms. Laura Kemper Scott Alan Gabel Mr. Gary Dennis Mrs. Sue Linson Mr. and Mrs. Kevin Overmyer Mrs. Hilarie Wilson Moritz Gapack Ms. Joyce E. Thuston Mr. and Mrs. Harold F. Walker John Gass Mrs. Carol E. Gass John J Getz, jr Ms. Judy Becker Mr. Mont Gilbert Ms. Clare Hamilton Ms. Laura Lewis Mr. and Mrs. Kevin Schmidt Ms. Dianne Talley Ms. Maureen Tayon Margaret Getz Ms. Judy Becker Mrs. Julie Brogan Mrs. Mary Crane Mr. Andrew Getz Mr. Kenneth Kapeller Ms. Ann Maddock Mr. and Mrs. John Shipley Ms. Dianne Talley Gloria Ann Gibbons Ms. La Rhonda Behl Ms. Hope Gibbons Mrs. Mary Gibbons Ms. Linda Kennett Patricia Goeddel Mr. and Mrs. Bart Saracino Robert S Goldenhersh, Esq Ms. Louise Goldenhersh Grandpa Mike Mr. and Mrs. Henry Diamant Luke Graser Mr. and Mrs. James Graser Francis Guethle Mr. and Mrs. John J. Vogt Taylor Hackworth Mrs. Linda Hackworth Karen Hafeli

Mr. and Mrs. Thomas F. Armstrong John Hagans Mr. and Mrs. Bill Dickerson Ed Hallam Ms. Kristie Scherrer Cheryl Handrop Mr. George W. Morrow, Jr. Ann Hanlon Mrs. Diane Merz Loretta Healy Mr. Dennis Healy Donald Hemenover Ms. Karen Mize Dorothy Hewlett Mrs. Darlene Azar Murrel L. Hines Mrs. Diane Hines Jackson Hocker Mr. Alton Allen Dynatrace Mrs. Tovah Edwards Mr. Clayton Hocker Dr. Theresa McDanel Mr. Eric Short Kurt Steven Hoener Ms. Nancy J. Latham James & Rose Horn Mr. Ricky Horn Norma Jackson Mr. and Mrs. Michael W. Brown Paige James Mrs. Mary Jo Sgro Mary Jenkins Ms. Elizabeth Launer Dale Jett Mr. Richard Ralston Artis Johns Mrs. Marilyn Fisher Mr. Michael Murphy Calvin Johnson Mr. and Mrs. Robert L. Cowgill Kaite Kaiser Mrs. Kathleen Taylor Kathy Kelvin Mr. and Ms. Guy E. Middleton Kayden Kieth Mrs. Pat Barnett Bakersmith Kinman Mr. and Mrs. Michael Dunk Deborah “Debi” Kiper Classic Aire Care, Inc. Nancy Kitzmiller Mrs. Carol Kitzmiller Chris Klugesherz Mrs. Christine Bergen Gail Lee Knoll Ms. Joyce E. Thuston

Irene Kopsky Ms. and Mrs. Craig R. Cooke Mr. and Mrs. Robby Gross Mr. and Mrs. James R. Jaacks Ms. Robin Kerby Mr. Steven King Mr. Gene Krus Ms. Elizabeth Meier Ms. Ginny Polach Ms. Vickie Pollard Ms. Dorothy Sims Russell Krohn Mrs. Robin Roach James Kuba Ms. Liz Carter Ms. Lori Courtney Mr. Ronald Dellbringge Kelly and Dan Harbaugh Ms. Barbara Kyle Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence J. Legrand Mr. Marsh Lukens Ms. Patricia Meyer Mrs. Cheryl Moellenhoff Mrs. Joan Thompson Washington Lodge No. 30 CSA Jonathan B Lane Mrs. Patricia A. Lane Katie Langham Mr. Owen Carter Mr. Ron Davison Germann’s Plumbing And Heating Doug Larson Mr. and Mrs. Gary L. Zehnle Crew Turner Leach Ms. Andrea Luffman Mal Leonard Mr. and Mrs. Tom Cornwell Nancy K Lesshafft Mr. and Mrs. Bryan Lesshafft William Lippman, Jr Ms. Jeanette Gift Miss Shayley Mabury Mr. and Mrs. Shayn Mabury Jim Mackey Ms. Nancy A. Duffy Tom Majda Mrs. Karen J. Majda John Maltagliati Mrs. Karen Kriska Richard Maurer Ms. Judy A. Maurer Dolores McAlevey Mr. David Robben

MEMORIALS CONTINUED Rob McDonald Ms. Lori Reber DJ McGowan Mrs. Patricia Taylor Delores (Lorrie) McAlevey Ms. Carol Buerman Mrs. Lynn Lagermann Mr. and Mrs. Dan R. McKeever Mrs. Denice Skyles Mary McKinnon Ms. Nancy A. Duffy Diane Medler Mrs. Dena R. Ferman Veda Merry Ms. Nancy A. Duffy Mary Ellen Meyer Mr. and Mrs. John J. Vogt Faith A. Miles Mr. and Mrs. Harold M. Miles Mr. and Mrs. Jim Rainey Dan Milner Mr. and Mrs. Max W. McCombs Brian Molloy Mr. and Mrs. John E. Buckner, Jr. Gerald Monken Ms. Johnita Schroeder Andy Myles Mrs. Dena R. Ferman Eugene Naes Mrs. Jan McCormack Declan Nelson Ms. Cassie Blum Megan Nelson Ms. Mary M. Nelson Liam Scott Nichols Ms. Annette Farwley Ellen O’Brien Mr. and Mrs. Paul J. Garvey, Jr. Kelly and Dan Harbaugh Ms. Kelly O’Brien Mr. and Mrs. Roger L. Scherck

Mr. and Mrs. Lee J. Schuler Ms. Nancy A. Spehr Nancy M Oldenburg Ms. Jan Calcagno Ms. Catherine Chaput Mr. and Mrs. John Keaveny Ms. Carol Kreader Mrs. Patricia Marcanik Mr. Ronald Oldenburg Mr. TJ Oldenburg, Jr. Greg Paulus Dr. Steve J. Malter James Charles Pavelec Mr. and Mrs. Lorry Bannes Roy Dean Perry Ms. Patrica Denton Mrs. Sandra Henke Mrs. Debbie Johns Mrs. Ethel Kelleher Mrs. Carol Meyer Mrs. Judy Picarella Mr. Michael Picarella Mrs. Julia Westfall Pete Polizzi Mr. Adrian Takir Evelyn Prellwitz Mr. and Mrs. Joseph A. Patti William L Reckel Mrs. Lynda Kamp Steven L Reed Mr. and Mrs. Don Hercher Virginia Reina Mr. Jimmy Reina Mrs. Jane E. Aschemann Theon Robert Mr. and Mrs. Harold F. Walker John H and Paul F Rodgers Mrs. Doris Rodgers Rosemary Saffo Mrs. Nancy Young Owen Salters Mrs. Karen Salters Sidney Sament

Ms. Hilary Simon Alice Sampson Greenbriar Hills Country Club Audrey Schmidt Mr. and Mrs. Harold F. Walker Doreen Schutte Mr. David L. Tornetto Richard Scott Mr. and Mrs. Kevin J. Brennan Rita Sebelski Mr. and Mrs. Harold F. Walker Ruth Shaw Ms. Rose Adams Mr. James Brandt Mr. Mike Castro Mr. Jack Cuneio Mrs. Malorie Diaz Mr. and Mrs. James W. Finger II Mr. Dane Heck Mr. and Mrs. Terry Hill Ms. Rita Hillsman Mrs. Anna Isselhardt Ms. Amy Lampo Ms. Helen Neeley Mr. and Mrs. Donald P. Nies Ms. Joyce Saunders Mr. Kevyn F. Schroeder Ms. Brenda L. Skaggs Ms. Karen Smith Mr. Jeff Wilsey Paul Silberman Mr. and Mrs. Henry Diamant Roz Silver Mr. and Mrs. Allan Feinberg Kenneth Kwong Chee Siu Ms. Joyce E. Thuston Glen J Smith Ms. Cheryl A. Smith Robert Smith

Midwest Association Auxiliary Ms. Sandra Ralston Anna M. Sohaney Mrs. Emalea Sohaney Teresa Steierman Mr. and Mrs. Harold F. Walker Judy Stinson Ms. Nancy A. Duffy Mr. and Mrs. Harold F. Walker Larry Surrey Mrs. Dena R. Ferman Kathleen Sutter Ms. Cheryl Land Anya Svrcek Ms. Zosia Skorko Judy Tarrant Mr. Wes Cummings Donna Thomsen Mr. and Ms. Guy E. Middleton Tristan Alexander Tolnay Mr. Richard Adams Mrs. Karen Kennedy Mrs. Catherine Riedesel Mrs. Marilyn Weber Paul M. Tornetto Mr. David L. Tornetto Victoria Tornetto The Saracino Family c/o Bartolino’s Osteria Mr. and Mrs. Michael Bono Committee To Elect Tom Villa Mr. and Mrs. Michael A. DiRaimondo Mr. Michael Garner Kelly and Dan Harbaugh Mr. and Mrs. Andrew S. Leeker Dr. Steve J. Malter Ms. Patricia A. Newby Mrs. Nancy Nickerson Mrs. Michelle Robins Mr. and Mrs. Lee J.

Schuler Oscar A.J. Trost Mrs. Staci Brown Brody Tucker Mrs. Melissa Tucker Austin Vaeth, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. John J. Vogt Chuck Vallese Dr. and Mrs. Harry D. Burack Connor Raymond Voigt Connor’s Cause Toni Walker Mr. and Mrs. Donald P. Nies Marjorie Ann Weisenfels-Green Mr. and Mrs. Craig Littleton Jeremiah White Mr. and Mrs. Lee G. Krabill Lorraine Wildermuth Mr. and Mrs. Ronald S. Burkhardt Lois Willbur Mrs. Kim E. Bertram and Mr. Dale A. Bertram David Wood Ms. Kathleen R. Jacobs Terry D Worl Ms. Mary Osterhage Kem Wuellner Mr. William Gottlob Mr. Clyde Wiseman We make every effort to list all names correctly. If you have a correction, please call 314.932.4134.

IN LOVING MEMORY Ronald McDonald House Charities of St. Louis extends its deepest sympathy to the families of these very special children:

Aiyana Lynn Forsythe Jamie-Lynn Haley Aleia Hutchison

Chloe Hutchinson Malachi Kemp Riley Lestrud

Aubrey Matthews Nina Matts Callen Prowell

Nekhi Andrews Pete Yoder

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TRIBUTES The following gifts were made in honor of someone special from August 1 - December 31, 2020. Seth & Maggie Ahrenbach Mr. and Mrs. Steve Kurtenbach Allscripts/EPSi Givesback Mrs. Alicea Starr Nicole Alstott and Family Wealth Management Advisors, Inc Joe Barks Mr. Micah Mayfield Anna Bearce Ms. Kathleen Flannery Alicia Berkey Mrs. Amy Knapp Zachary Best Mrs. Cynthia Fernandez Anna Nadine Black Mr. Guy Black Stuart L. Block Dr. Steve J. Malter The Boweman Family Mrs. Colleen Murray David and Lynn Brandt Mrs. Karen Stebelski Kara Brockmeier Mr. and Mrs. James J. Wood Kellan Brown Mr. Evan Weir Perry “Neal” Browne Grimes Consulting, Inc. Corbin, Carson and Cannon Mrs. Amanda Frentzel Mr. and Mrs. Steve Craig Ms. Mary Thuet Mrs. Danielle Blechle Angela Culler Mr. Paul Hendrickson Liam Samuel Devoy Mrs. Peggy Devoy Don Dzengolewski Mrs. Beth Stewart Dan Eagan Mr. Micah Mayfield Stan Edelstein Mr. and Mrs. Ivan I. Schenberg Cully Eisenbeis Mrs. Toni Larson Becky and Garry Embry Mrs. Kristen Ewing Jim Feigenbaum Mr. and Mrs. Henry Diamant Jonathan & Megan Flaxbart Mr. Don Flaxbart Mr. Peter Poulos Mr. Dan Flaxbart Israel Carlito Havier Garza Family of Israel Garza Nathan & Emily Gegg Ms. Kathleen Lewandowski Sean Geoghegan Ms. Rosemary Failoni Failoni’s Tavern and Restaurant

Chris Giarla Mr. Lawrence Andreatta Dave and Andrea’s 50th Anniversary Mr. Lawrence Andreatta Chuck Glidden Mr. David Lippmann Spencer’s Bar Mitzvah Mr. and Mrs. Henry Diamant Jim & Ginny Good Ms. Shirley M. Good Thomas Jonah Michael Goodman Mr. Jonah Goodman Mrs. Kelly Knight Marjorie W Green Mrs. Laura De Yong Marty Greenberg’s 80th Birthday Mrs. Dena R. Ferman Egan and Melissa Greenstein Ms. Jenifer Coleman Brenda Haalboom Ms. Cynthia Meiners Kent Hake Mrs. Jennifer A. Kapetanovich Eric & Lisa Hallgren Mr. Micah Mayfield Mr. and Mrs. Steve Harbaugh Mr. John Kerber Karen and Rich Hartmann Mrs. Joyce Payne Michelle Heastrup Ms. Jeanne Kaplan Charlie’s Bar Mitzvah Mr. and Mrs. Henry Diamant Mary Henry Ms. Shirley M. Good Fletcher Hopkins Mr. and Mrs. Steven L. Hopkins Mrs. Karen Wobbe Brad Hoppe Ms. Rhonda Schladerbach Artis Johns Mr. William Johns Ethan Koch Mrs. Donna Koch Chris and Sandy Krebeck Mrs. Claire Becher Toni Lee Mrs. Mary Signaigo Birth of Great Grandson, Nikko Mrs. Charlotte Rosenblum Dr. Coles & Leslie L’Hommedieu Ms. Charleen L’Hommedieu Drew Luecke Mr. and Mrs. Henry Diamant Isla Rae Lunk Ms. Isla R. Lunk Ms. Tricia O’Donnell-Coombs

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Monica Denise Madison Mr. Mark Madison Maul-Greenberg Family Mr. Seth Maul Willow McDivitt Ms. Sandra McDivitt Mercy Clinic Internal Medicine Ms. Joanne P. Buttice Jim & Janet Merlo Mrs. Gretchen Bender Margie Moon Mrs. Mary Signaigo Joshua Mooney Mr. Robert Heideman Abbie Mueller Mr. Gary Mueller Fin Nayler Ms. Martha Hawn Violet and Frank Mr. Frank J. Niesen III Nora Black & Lanter Delivery Systems Mr. Mark Grieman Nurses and Caretakers Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth Richardson Sonali Olson Mr. Floyd J. Siegal Julie Paskar Mr. and Mrs. David R. Segal Steve Pelch Ms. Sue McLaughlin Margaret Phillips Mr. John O. Phillips Aly Puckett Mr. and Mrs. Jamie Puckett Dominic Pugliano Dr. Frederic Pugliano and Ms. Deidre Murphy John J Puricelli Mr. Brian Ingalls Vicki Rayfield Mr. Benjamin Cosstick Terri Reilman Ms. June Smith Natalie Mae Reisner Mr. Michael Reisner Jacque Richmond’s Birthday Ms. Linda Richmond Janet Ripperda Ms. Lola Missey Michelle Rogers, Sophia Rogers and Dustin Halby Mr. Todd Awbrey Linda Rosen Mr. Stan Hastings Cindy Schaper Mr. Bradley Schaper Keith Schieler Ms. Jane Sheneberger

Blood Bank Medical Director Mrs. Mary Signaigo Judy Schuler Mr. and Mrs. Eric Lindemann Mallory Grace Sheppard Mr. and Mrs. David K. Sheppard Jack and Mary Smith Mrs. Jennifer Smith Brooke Snider Mr. Ben Sandmel Judy Strawder Mrs. Tracey Hughes Eric Struckhoff Mr. Frederick Dressel Sarah Struckhoff Mr. Frederick Dressel John and Judy Sutherland Mr. Michael Schaefer Mike and Kathy Templer Ms. Amanda Templer The Podliski Family Ms. Joan Podleski Adah Tibbetts Mrs. Deena C. Chaney Lynda Tolley-Wood Mrs. Angela Haakenson David Tornetto Advisors Capital Management Mrs. Sarah Statham Victoria Tornetto Mr. Jason A. Huff Our Granddaughters Kaylee, Kara, Jordan, Taryn and Torrie Mr. and Mrs. Carl Reynolds Carla Valenti Mr. and Mrs. James P. Hannon Hudson Van Roekel Mr. Lyle Van Roekel Kari and Alex Volken Mr. Chris Mikulskis Jackson Waldman Dr. and Mrs. Harry D. Burack Blake Watkins Ms. Deborah Martin Eileen Weber Mr. and Mrs. Ronald C. Marth Barbara Whitehead Mr. and Mrs. Edwin C. Hendrick We make every effort to list all names correctly. If you have a correction, please call 314.932.4134.

Aiden and Jase Worthen

SHARE YOUR STORY Ronald McDonald House Charities celebrates 40 years of comfort and care in St. Louis In honor of our 40th Anniversary, the Ronald McDonald House Charities of St. Louis team is looking to highlight 40 Stories for 40 Years. We’d like to gather stories of healing and hope about families and children who have benefited from the St. Louis-area Ronald McDonald Houses and Ronald McDonald Family Rooms, as well as hear from our volunteers and donors on why you’ve chosen to support The House that Love Built. With your help, we can honor those who made the last 40 years possible. Start today at www.rmhcstl.com/shareyourstory.

Follow along on Facebook and Instagram (@rmhcstl) to see the moments of joy at the homeaway-from-home in St. Louis

1981 – 2021 St. Louis

Heartbeat • Spring/Summer 2019

25 YEARS ON PARK AVENUE The Park Avenue Ronald McDonald House has provided a homeaway-from-home for families since 1996.

ne of the worst things that can happen to a parent or guardian is to learn that their child is sick and needs to be hospitalized. Suddenly, life stops overnight, and the world is full of worry and fear. For many families, there is an added stress: distance. Sometimes the best medical care available is hundreds of miles from home – or more. Also, families face the financial demands of mounting medical bills, job insecurity, and a healing journey that can take months or years. This is why the Ronald McDonald House exists: to keep families close to their seriously ill children and help alleviate the isolation and stress they may feel. The Park Avenue Ronald McDonald House has been providing this support for 25 years. Ronald McDonald House Charities of St. Louis opened its second House on Park Avenue on April 14, 1996, primarily serving families whose children were being treated at SSM Health Cardinal Glennon Children’s Hospital. The 11-bedroom house has offered a respite to thousands of families throughout the years. “I can’t begin to explain the comfort and relief we felt when we got the call that a room was available 23

Heartbeat • Spring/Summer 2021

for us at the Park Avenue Ronald McDonald House,” says Shawna Jones. “I remember the very first night, after settling in, we came down to the kitchen to explore. There was spaghetti, salad, bread, and the sweetest group who served us. As I sat down to my first hot meal in a month (that was not take-out or hospital food), I cried. Tears of joy. Tears of relief. Tears of sadness for what we were going through. But mostly tears of gratitude.” Like many parents at RMHC, Shawna’s son was born premature and quickly taken to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) at SSM Health Cardinal Glennon Children’s Hospital to grow until he was ready to go home. “I was able to be with him every single day from the moment I woke up until the evening when I came back to our temporary home for two months,” Shawna explains. “Without RMHC, we never would have had that opportunity since we live two hours away from St. Louis.” As we look back on the past 25 years of serving families when they need it most, we are incredibly grateful for the continued support from countless volunteers and donors who keep our House feeling like home. ■

OUR WISH LIST

We rely on donations of these household items to provide all the comforts of home inside our three Ronald McDonald Houses and four Ronald McDonald Family Rooms. To donate items, please call 314-773-1100 or email info@rmhcstl.com. Cleaning Supplies: Paper towels Disinfectant (Lysol) spray Multipurpose cleaner Floor cleaner Hand soap SOS pads and sponges Swiffer hand duster sheets Glass cleaner (Windex)

Kitchen Items: Sweet/salty individually wrapped snacks (cookies, soups, mac ‘n’ cheese, breakfast bars, hot chocolate, trail mix, dried fruit, peanut butter or cheese sandwich crackers & candy bars) Dishwasher detergent Aluminum foil Nonstick frying pans

Miscellaneous: Travel-sized & full-sized shampoo, conditioner, deodorant, shaving cream and toothpaste Laundry Facility Supplies: High-efficiency laundry detergent Softener sheets

You can purchase these items and more from our Amazon Wish List! Visit www.rmhcstl.com/wishlist to order online and have these essential items shipped right to the Ronald McDonald House.

AMAZONSMILE NOW ON YOUR PHONE! AmazonSmile is a simple and automatic way for you to support RMHC St. Louis every time you shop, at no cost to you. Now, you can turn on AmazonSmile in your Amazon app! Visit www.smile.amazon.com, log in using your existing Amazon account, and select Ronald McDonald House Charities of Metro St. Louis as your charity. Then, open your Amazon app and find ‘Settings’ in the main menu. Tap on ‘AmazonSmile’ and follow the on-screen instructions to turn on AmazonSmile on your phone.

HEARTBITS Thanks to our friends at AIM Cleaning, our long-term apartments are extra clean for the new year. We are so grateful for their support to keep these family spaces fresh.

Special thank you to Vito’s in the Valley! They hosted a fundraiser to benefit five local charities, including RMHC. With their help, guest families enjoyed delicious dinners.

We are so glad Santa stopped by the West County Ronald McDonald House to surprise guest families. His safe visit had all the kiddos smiling under their masks.

Did you hear about our friends at 4 Hands Brewing? RMHC has been chosen as a City Wide partner for 2021. We are excited about this “brewing” friendship. Cheers!

Little Izabella found a new friend! O 🎄 ur annual McGift Shoppe, where RMHC families can shop free-ofcharge for loved ones throughout December, was a huge success.

We miss this smiling face! Our Chief Pawsitivity Officer, Frankie, had a blast coming to visit her friends at the West County House. We can’t decide who was more excited Frankie or the kiddos.

Jaden and Reneisha, Assistant Family Services Manager, had a great time playing Jenga for game night. It was the perfect way for Jaden to practice his motor skills and have a few laughs.

Our friends at the Korean-American Association of Scott Area, Inc. stopped by the Park Avenue House to donate $1,000. We are so grateful for their continued support.

Heartbeat • Spring/Summer 2021

Love lives here! Thank you to the St. Louis community and beyond for sharing these heartwarming moments with us. Vroom Vroom! Thanks to Seeger Toyota for a new van! This vehicle will be used to transport families staying with us to partnered hospitals for medical care.

Kiyah, from Belize, is enjoying her time at the West County House with her family. This little diva found a few toys to help pass the time during quarintine.

Huge thank you to CRB, a provider of sustainable engineering, architecture, and construction solutions, for donating 4,000 KN95 masks and wish list items.

Jordan was staying at our apartments with his family. Thanks to your support, they had a place to be together to play and be silly. We love his new moustache!

Yay! Hope is heading home to Barbados after staying with us for 171 days. Thanks to the World Pediatric Project, Hope had access to treatment in St. Louis.

The team from Don Brown Chevrolet made a pretty amazing delivery to the Park Avenue Ronald McDonald House. The front lobby was filled with a huge donation for the McGift Shoppe!

Wow! The team at Our friend Braxton the Paul Simon Jr. collected $22.73 Impact Foundation for RMHC families donatedacts an of through incredible Thanks $20,000 kindness! to keep families for showing close in St.how Louis. everyone On behalf of the small change families weaserve, can make BIG thank you! Braxton! difference,

Assistant Family Services Manager Jordan showed her love for guest families by participating in the national campaign #HereForRMHC hosted by McDonald’s. Thanks, Jordan!

Heartbeat • Spring/Summer 2021

NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION U.S. POSTAGE PAID JEFFERSON CITY, MO PERMIT NO. 210

St. Louis

3450 Park Avenue St. Louis, MO 63104

If your name and/or address are incorrect, please let us know by contacting Lanisha Thomas at 314-932-4134 or lthomas@ rmhcstl.com. Do you prefer to receive the Heartbeat newsletter electronically? Let us know via email at info@rmhcstl.com. Thank you!

RONALD MCDONALD HOUSE CHARITIES® OF ST. LOUIS West Pine Ronald McDonald House 4381 West Pine Blvd. St. Louis, MO 63108 314-531-6601

Park Avenue Ronald McDonald House 3450 Park Ave. St. Louis, MO 63104 314-773-1100

West County Ronald McDonald House 300 Ronald McDonald House Ln. St. Louis, MO 63141 314-485-0300

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